Photo via Shutterstock
With the holidays done and dusted and the first week of the new year down, we say it’s time to celebrate. Whether you had a big win, tried something new, or spent this week in recovery mode, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (Jan. 9-11).
It’s not too late to live out a little holiday magic in Yaletown. Part scavenger hunt, part art walk, the installation leads you down Hamilton and Mainland Streets towards Bill Curtis Square, where snow appears to fall through the magical glow. From there, onlookers can catch a glimpse inside a celebration that brings back all the holiday nostalgia you might be missing.
When: Until Jan. 11, 2026
Time: 5 p.m. onwards
Where: Yaletown Heritage District and waterfront
Cost: Free
Movie nights with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra present three nights of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert this weekend. Get ready to relive a classic and experience the live orchestra perform John Williams’ iconic score.
When: Thursday, Jan. 8 to Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026
Time: Showtimes at 7 and 9 p.m.
Where: 601 Smithe St.
Cost: $67.50 to $145
Cheer on the UBC Thunderbirds as they face off against the visiting TWU Spartans at War Memorial Gym this weekend.
When: Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026
Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: 6081 University Blvd.
Cost: Varies
This one’s for K-pop lovers! South Korean girl group TWICE is coming to Vancouver as part of their world tour, and you won’t want to miss it.
When: Friday, Jan. 9, 2026
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: 800 Griffiths Way
Cost: $180.55+
The ice rink at Robson Square is a staple for a reason. For just $5 per skate rental, you really can’t go wrong, especially given its central location.
When: Now open daily until Feb. 28, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 800 Robson St.
Cost: $5 for skate rentals
Daniel Tosh is a comedian, host, writer and producer, with no shortage of comedy specials under his belt. His stand-up career kicked off in 2001 after a performance on The Late Show with David Letterman, and he’s now become a household name.
When: Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: 630 Hamilton St.
Cost: $185.10
Canyon Lights is a quintessential holiday experience in the Vancouver area for a reason. Millions of glowing holiday lights illuminate your way as you explore the iconic suspension bridge and suspended paths.
When: Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, to Jan. 18, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 3735 Capilano Rd., North Vancouver
Cost: $78 per adult
Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display is in Coquitlam, and it features a 1.6 km lit pathway lined with adorable holiday displays. Running until Feb. 16, 2026, you’ve got plenty of time to check it out.
The City of Coquitlam recommends visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours, between 6 p.m. and after 8 p.m., for the best viewing experience.
When: Open daily until Feb. 16, 2026
Time: 4 to 11 p.m.
Where: 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
Cost: Free
Ready to take your artistic skills to the next level? VanArts is hosting an open house at the Institute this weekend, where you’ll be able to meet artists across a variety of backgrounds, including film, animation, web development, photography, acting, and video production. The school has been training artists for 30 years, offering one-year diploma programs, as well as three and six-month certificates.
When: Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Where: 700 – 333 Terminal Ave.
Cost: Free admission
Harry Potter fans of all ages can visit the “Forbidden Forest” at Stanley Park, even on New Year’s Day. Visitors follow an illuminated path filled with magical creatures like unicorns and hippogriffs to a themed village, where they’ll find nostalgic bites and sips, souvenirs, and bespoke Harry Potter merch.
When: Until Feb. 1, 2026
Time: Slots available between 5:30 and 10:15 p.m.
Where: 690 Pipeline Rd.
Cost: $43+
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