December is finally here – the most festive month of the year! There are many exciting things to do with friends and family in the Metro Vancouver area this holiday season.
Why Vancouver is the Best Place for Festive Celebrations?
When it comes to celebrating the holiday season, few cities compare to the magic and charm of Vancouver in December. Whether you're a local planning your winter weekends or a visitor looking for fun things to do in Vancouver, the city transforms into a wonderland of lights and unforgettable experiences.
With its vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban culture, Vancouver is packed with things to do, from cozy Christmas markets to thrilling holiday events in downtown Vancouver. One of the most iconic seasonal attractions is the dazzling display of Christmas lights for which Vancouver is known — places like Capilano Suspension Bridge's Canyon Lights and the VanDusen Festival of Lights draw crowds every year, making them among the best places to visit in Vancouver during the holidays.
Looking for fun activities in Vancouver for the whole family? There’s no shortage of stuff to do in downtown Vancouver, including outdoor ice skating at Robson Square, festive parades and winter pop-ups. You'll also find plenty of Vancouver Christmas events that blend traditional charm with West Coast creativity — from German-style Christmas markets to immersive light shows.
In short, December in Vancouver isn't just about sightseeing — it's about soaking in the joy of the season. Whether you're searching for the top things to do in Vancouver or simply want to discover the best places to go for a cozy winter weekend, this city offers something for everyone.
Best things to do in Vancouver at Christmas
Looking for the best things to do in Vancouver at Christmas? Whether you're a local or visiting during the holidays, Vancouver comes alive with festive cheer, twinkling lights and seasonal charm. From fun things to do with family to romantic winter date ideas, the city offers countless ways to celebrate. With so many magical places to visit and unique Vancouver Christmas events, it’s the perfect place to make holiday memories.
Vancouver Christmas Market
The Vancouver Christmas Market is back for another year! From Nov. 13 to Dec. 24, head to the Jack Poole Plaza in downtown Vancouver to delight in German-style food and drinks, hop on a Christmas carousel and stroll through a wonderland of holiday shopping, music and lights.
Tip: Purchase tickets online to skip the Box Office line. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vancouverchristmasmarket.com.
Glow Gardens
Step into a magical lightfilled winter wonderland at Glow Gardens Langley, an outdoor festival that’s one of the top festive things to do. Located just outside the city in Langley, this experience offers a whimsical stroll through giant glowing displays, themed lands, a scavenger hunt, live performances and food trucks.
To learn more or purchase tickets, visit https://langley.glowgardens.com/.
Canyon Lights
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a spectacular sight for all to enjoy. At Canyon Lights, the world-famous suspension bridge is lit end-to-end with a changing, multi-coloured display. Walk high above the forest floor between the eight tallest Christmas trees in the world on Treetops Adventure and marvel in their scenic beauty.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit https://www.capbridge.com/events/canyon-lights/.
Festival of Lights
The Festival of Lights at VanDusen Garden is truly a sight for the eyes with over one million lights decorating 15 acres of the VanDusen Botanical Garden. An enchanting winter garden awaits with themed areas, tasty treats, unique light features and holiday music.
Please note that tickets are not sold on-site and must be purchased online in advance. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit vandusenfestivaloflights.ca.
Heritage Christmas
Heritage Christmas is a merry event filled with bright lights and traditional decorations at the Burnaby Village Museum. Wander the village and take in all of the seasonal entertainment and activities, including a themed scavenger hunt. Stop by the Ice Cream Parlor for a sweet treat or take a ride on the restored 1912 C.W. Parker Carousel for some fun.
Gate admission is free and advanced reservations are not required. To learn more, visit burnaby.ca/recreation-and-arts/events/heritage-christmas.
Winter in the Village
Explore Richmond’s charming waterfront village at Winter in the Village in Steveston. Wander the village streets and view the creative displays and decorations for viewing at various store windows, building exteriors and even on the boats by the pier.
To learn more, visit https://www.visitrichmondbc.com/events/winter-in-the-village/.
Christmas at Canada Place
Just steps away from the Vancouver Christmas Market, you'll find Christmas at Canada Place, an outdoor experience featuring the historic Woodward’s Windows and Avenue of Christmas Trees, a special holiday-themed Sails of Light display, Canada’s North light display and more!
For more information, visit https://www.canadaplace.ca/event/christmas-canada-place.
Christmas at FlyOver Canada
Fly with Santa and his elves on a magical flight across Canada and to the North Pole with FlyOver Canada in downtown Vancouver. This exhilarating experience will take guests from the east to the west coast and give a sneak peek of Santa’s Workshop as they soar over the North Pole.
To learn more or purchase tickets, visit https://www.flyovercanada.com/now-showing/.
PNE Fair
Experience holiday magic at the PNE Winter Fair. Located at Hastings Park, this festive fair offers a ton of things to do in Vancouver at Christmas: stroll through dazzling WinterLights displays, skate on the Ice Rink, take a ride on the Holiday Express train and meet Santa. There are also ice bumper cars, festive shows, live music and holiday foods and treats. Perfect for families or anyone looking for fun things to do in Vancouver, this event combines the charm of traditional holiday festivals with Vancouver’s own winter sparkle.
To learn more or purchase tickets, visit https://www.pne.ca/winter-fair/.
Disney on Ice – Magic in the Stars
Disney On Ice presents Let’s Dance is a magical ice show coming to the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver. Expect your favourite Disney characters—Mickey, Stitch, Elsa, Moana, Simba and more—to bring a highenergy, colourful celebration to life on ice. From classic Disney songs reimagined with dance beats, to enchanting storytelling and visual spectacle, it’s a perfect pick for families looking for fun things to do in Vancouver this weekend (or any chilly season).
Check out tickets here.
Don’t forget to bundle up and get the camera ready for the perfect Instagram-worthy photo at these family-friendly events.
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy all the festivities the city has to offer this holiday season!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Originally Published December 3, 2021
