Categories: Things To Do

10 the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (January 3-5)

Can you believe the new year is here, Vancouver? 2025 is going to be a great one and getting out this weekend is the perfect way to kick things off. From outdoor ice skating to a glowing light festival, these are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend.

VanDusen Festival of Lights

This massive lights festival is a must-see. Spanning 15 acres, spectators can take in over 1 million twinkling lights and interactive installations.

The last day of the VanDusen Festival of Lights is this weekend so be sure to grab your tickets.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: $11 to $28 per ticket

Cirque Du Soleil ECHO

Cirque Du Soleil is putting on a spectacular show for Vancouver each day this weekend! These are the last few shows aka your last chance to take in daring acrobatics, technology and music as they come together on stage.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5
Where: 88 Pacific Blvd
Cost: $78+ per ticket

Merry & Bright at Martini Town

“When Martini Town isn’t appearing in the latest Christmas hit, our team gets to work to create a charming holiday escape made just for your enjoyment. The result is a fun and engaging experience designed to delight and entertain you and your loved ones,” shares Martini Town.

The film set is open to the public for one more weekend, a great way to kick off 2025. Enjoy vendors, light displays, photo opportunities, food and drinks.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5
Where: 1123 272 Street
Cost: $12 to $22 per ticket

The Shipyards Skate Plaza

The region’s largest outdoor skating rink awaits.

Found on the waterfront at The Shipyards, this rink has a gorgeous backdrop of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains. Skating is free while rentals cost $5 to $7.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way
Cost: Free admission ($5-$7 for skate rentals)

The Polygon Gallery’s Annual Holiday Shop 

The holidays may be over but this market is still running all weekend. Enjoy handcrafted treasures from independent makers and artists, there’s a little something for everyone.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court
Cost: Free admission

Snowshoeing at Cypress Mountain

Cypress Mountain has breathtaking Nordic trails to explore this winter, and this weekend is an awesome time to go.

According to Cypress Mountain, the trails “run through the subalpine meadows and snowy mountain forests.” Sounds too amazing to pass up.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road
Cost: $22 per general admission ticket ($32 for snowshoe rentals)

Robson Square skating

Robson Square’s ice skating rink is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day until the end of February including this weekend.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 800 Robson Street
Cost: Free admission ($5 for skate rentals)

Canyon Lights 

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has transformed with millions of lights! Visitors can stroll across the suspension bridge, illuminated by a display of multi-coloured lights that span the canyon.

Don’t forget to grab some hot chocolate, too. Tickets range from $21.95 to $71.95 and include access to all park attractions.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 5 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 3735 Capilano Road
Cost: $12 to $22 per ticket

Vancouver Canucks vs. Nashville Predators

The Canucks are at home on Friday hosting the Nashville Predators. Grab a pal or a date and get ready to cheer loud!

Tickets start at $138.74.

When: Friday, Jan. 3 at 7 p.m.
Where: 800 Griffiths Way
Cost: $138.74+

Kitsilano Winter Market

Enjoy fresh produce, yummy baked goods and delectable meats from over 50 local farms at this winter farmers’ market.

The market runs every Sunday from now until April 27.

When: Sunday, Jan. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: West 10th Avenue and Trafalgar Street
Cost: Free admission

Have a fantastic first weekend of 2025, Vancouver.

Recent Posts:
24 of the best things to do in & around Vancouver this January
12 of the best free & cheap things to do in Vancouver this January

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