Holiday Events in Vancouver
Photo Credit: Brett Hitchins/City of Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver Ferris Wheel
Dates: Dec. 1-24
Location: North Plaza, Vancouver Art Gallery
For $7, you can take to the skies and experience the scenery of downtown Vancouver. Just next to the ferris wheel is a 76-foot Christmas tree, with great photo opportunities. Whether for a date night or family fun, this event is a great opportunity to get into the festive spirit.
PNE Winter Fair
Dates: Dec. 12-23
Location: PNE Showgrounds
Admire the wonders of WinterLights, enjoy indoor skating, ride on-ice bumper cars, and hop aboard the PNE Holiday Express. Also offered are two live shows: “The Nutcracker on Ice” and the “Magic of Santa Holiday Musical.” Additionally, don’t miss out on the interactive Discover Santa activity!
VanDusen Festival of Lights
Dates: Nov. 29-Jan. 5
Location: VanDusen Botanical Garden
Back for its 40th season, this attraction contains more than one million twinkling illuminations. New features this year include a themed display on the Great Bear Rainforest, and an interactive attraction featuring the fascinating fungal world of mycelium. Festive music and holiday treats are also available on-site.
Ice Skating at Robson Square
Dates: Nov. 29-Feb. 28
Location: Robson Square
The Vancouver holiday classic of free ice skating is back at Robson Square! Skates can be rented for $5. This is a great opportunity to have some family fun or spend time with friends. Live entertainment will be present on many afternoons and evenings as well.
Santa’s Christmas Ships: Christmas Boat Parade
Dates: Nov. 30, Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21
Locations: Port Moody, Deep Cove, Belcarra, Dollarton, and other North Shore waterfront areas. This event consists of a fleet of brightly lit ships that sail near to the shoreline. Onboard, there’s live music and entertainment, however, the sailings are weather-dependent, so plan accordingly.
Vancouver Christmas Market
Dates: Nov. 13-Dec. 24
Location: Jack Poole Plaza (at Canada Place)
Bringing the vibes of traditional German Christmas markets, the Vancouver Christmas Market is back for its 14th year, with nearly 100 artisan vendors, plus live music and festive lights. Be sure to grab a warm drink and relish in traditional German dishes during your visit. And, before you leave, remember to hitch a complementary ride on the carousel!