Top Things To Do In Vancouver At Christmas (2025)

Last Updated on December 23, 2025

Christmas in Vancouver is an especially fun time of year. Buzzing with holiday festivities, twinkling lights, Christmas trees, plays, outdoor ice skating, and more, you are sure to feel warm and fuzzy. Even in the rainy season in Vancouver, you can find a cozy holiday atmosphere.

These are what we think are the most worthwhile Christmas activities and events in Vancouver to choose from to ignite that festive holiday spirit.

We’ll be continually updating this throughout the holiday season as we find the best activities, so keep checking back for more holiday adventure ideas in Vancouver.

Bright Nights (New Location )

Vancouver’s famous Stanley Park hosts one of the best holiday traditions to get into the Christmas Spirit. I remember going as a kid every year, and we love seeing our kids’ eyes light up each Christmas.

Over three million sparkling lights will ignite your excitement for the Christmas season. It is one of the best festive and family-friendly light displays.

This year, Bright Nights joins the Noel Festival in Surrey, so instead of being by donation, tickets must be purchased.

To buy tickets, go to the Noel Festival website. Noel runs from November 28 – December 28, 2025.

Noel Festival

Step into a winter wonderland at the Noël Festival, where festive lights, charming holiday markets, and magical performances bring the season to life. This year, the festival also features Bright Nights, formerly in Stanley Park, adding even more sparkle to the experience. Snap photos with Santa Claus, meet the green grumpy one, and enjoy appearances and songs by other beloved holiday characters. Wander through enchanting stalls, soak in the twinkling lights, enjoy live music, and indulge in seasonal treats — it’s a festival full of joy, laughter, and memories the whole family will treasure.

Noel runs November 28- December 28, 2025 at the Cloverdale Fair Grounds in Surrey.

GLOW

For its first couple of years running, GLOW started as an impressive indoor attraction. With hundreds of thousands of lights, live music, and plenty of activities for kids, it was a fabulous family-friendly attraction, first in a giant greenhouse in Langley, then opened two location options in Abbotsford and Vancouver.

This year, Glow will transform into a Magic Toy Shop. Inside, families can explore dazzling new lands like DinoLand, Gingerbread Lane, Motor City, Rainbow Forest, Teddy Town, and Vintage Avenue, each filled with oversized toys, glowing surprises, and moments of discovery.

Tickets are selling out fast, so reserve your spot soon. Christmas Glow is open now until December 31st.

Christmas Lights Driving Adventure

The Vancouver Sun newspaper tracks the best house light displays around Metro Vancouver. All it costs is putting some gas in your vehicle. Get in your PJ’s, bring some blankets, hot chocolate, and goodies, and feel the warmth as you observe Christmas lights in Vancouver and the lower mainland to your heart’s content. Don’t forget to include some of the suburbs of Vancouver; that is often where you will find the best houses all lit up for Christmas!

This is the best list of light displays to help you plan your drive.

Merry & Bright At Martini Town

This is the cutest and most unique way to celebrate the Holidays near Vancouver.

Step into a realm of cinematic enchantment and immerse yourself in an extraordinary holiday adventure. Experience the unparalleled magic of Martini Town, Langley’s exclusive outdoor Film Backlot, as it unveils its mystical transformation into a captivating Christmas wonderland, crafted by a team of skilled industry professionals. Prepare to be spellbound by this opportunity to explore the mesmerizing world of movie-making. Get ready to discover Instagram-worthy photo opportunities at every turn, have the chance to meet Santa (during select times), and indulge in delectable culinary delights. Additionally, you’ll be treated to a diverse array of talented singers, choirs, and entertainers, making your experience even more memorable.

Merry & Bright at Martini Town is open November 21 to December 31, 2025.

Get your tickets HERE.

Surrey Tree Lighting Festival

The Surrey Tree Lighting Festival stands as the City of Surrey’s most anticipated holiday event. Each year, residents are invited to witness the grand moment when Mayor and Council illuminate the majestic 60ft Christmas Tree. Celebrating its 13th year in 2023, this cherished festival has gifted attendees with a decade of cherished holiday memories and cherished traditions.

Every year, this event never fails to amaze its attendees with its remarkable light installations, a festive market, an energetic dance stage, talented DJs, delectable food trucks, and a wide range of activities suitable for all ages.

Join us on November 22 & 23, 2025 between 12 pm – 8 pm  at Surrey Civic Plaza. Free admission.

Bear Creek Lights 

Looking for a festive evening outing that won’t cost a thing? Bear Creek Lights is back this fall, turning Bear Creek Park in Surrey into a glowing, walk-through wonderland — and it’s just under an hour from Vancouver.

Running November 7–21, 2025 (closed November 11 for Remembrance Day), this popular light display is perfect for families, couples, and anyone craving a little seasonal magic without the crowds or high ticket prices.

The event runs from 4:30–9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 4:30–8:30 pm Sunday through Thursday. You’ll find it at Bear Creek Park in Surrey, with parking available at the main lot off 88 Avenue, one block east of King George Boulevard.

Admission is completely free, but tickets are required. Entry is booked in 30-minute time slots, though you’re welcome to stay longer once inside. Each reservation allows up to six tickets, making it easy for families to attend together. Limited walk-up entry may be available if cancellations occur, but booking ahead is strongly recommended.

Bear Creek Lights is especially well-suited for families with kids. The illuminated trails feature paved loops and gentle terrain, making it stroller-friendly and accessible. On select nights, you’ll also find food trucks, live music on weekends, and guided nature walks midweek, adding even more reason to linger.

If you’re searching for a free light show near Vancouver that’s easy, festive, and family-approved, Bear Creek Lights is well worth the short drive.

Christmas Craft Fairs

You will have no shortage of options to support local this Christmas. Craft fairs can be found at local schools and churches in the cities around Vancouver. It is a great way to find the cutest additions to your Christmas decor or to find a thoughtful gift for the hard-to-shop-for people on your list.

You can find a great list of Christmas craft fairs here.

Christmas Store At Potter’s

Potter’s is Western Canada’s biggest Christmas store. With over 28,000 square feet of display space, you know they’ll have whatever you’re dreaming of this Christmas.

Potters shops the world for all things Christmas. With many unique displays, and over 60,000 themed ornaments, lighted home décor, and all the best stocking stuffers, visiting is a Christmas adventure.

The Christmas Store is open from mid-October thru to Christmas Eve every year.

Hyatt Gingerbread Lane

Experience a delightful stroll through Canada’s renowned Gingerbread Lane, the longest-running display of its kind.

2025 marks the 33rd annual Gingerbread Lane event, attracting over 20,000 visitors each year.

Indulge in the rich tradition of our exquisitely crafted Gingerbread Cookie Houses, meticulously created by talented individuals from the local community and partners.

Open to the public November 27  -December 28th, 2025.

Outdoor Ice Skating

With our mild winters, Vancouver usually does not get much snow in the city, and it is not cold enough for ponds to freeze over. Our outdoor rinks are hand-built, but still a ton of fun for an outdoor skate. There are four great rinks to go for a skate:

Robson Square

Skating under the covered glass done in downtown Robson Square is a holiday tradition. Shielded from the Vancouver weather, this is another great option for an escape from the rain.

Admission is also free at this skating rink, but skate rentals are extra.

The rink is open November 28, 2025 (12:00 pm) – February 28, 2026 (9:00 pm).

For more information about the Robson Square Rink, go here.

Grouse Mountain

The most expensive option as you need to purchase a Mountain Admission ticket, or have an annual locals pass. However, the 8,000 square-foot skating pond is the only mountain-top outdoor skate pond in the lower mainland. This makes it extra magical at night when the lights are twinkling and the snow is falling.

This is a great option for some family fun or a romantic date night.

If you’re going up the mountain, don’t forget to include some winter sports, snowshoeing, or enjoy the Peak Of Christmas At Grouse, where ice skating is included.

Find out more at the Grouse Mountain website.

Shipyard Skate Plaza, North Vancouver

Next to the Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver’s Shipyard Commons is one of the region’s largest and newest outdoor skating rinks. You also do not need to worry about all the Vancouver rain. With a retractable cover, you can skate in whatever weather Vancouver throws at you.

The free admission is incredible; you only need to purchase skate rentals if you do not have your own skates.

The Skate Plaza is open for the 2025/2026 season, daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. The last skating day of the season is scheduled for March 29, 2026.

Find out more about this skating rink at the City of North Vancouver website.

Whistler Olympic Plaza

If you do not mind a bit of a drive, a fabulous outdoor option is the rink in Whistler’s Olympic Plaza. Surrounded by twinkling lights and falling snow, you’ll feel winter’s magic.

Admission fees:

• Tots (3 years and under): Free
• Children (4 – 12 years): $3.50
• Youth (13 – 18 years): $5
• Adults (19+): $6
• Skate rental: $7
• Helmets and skate aids: Free

The rink is open November 27, 2025 until late March 2026 and is weather dependent. Adjacent Snow Zone for snow play when conditions allow.

Find out more about the rink at the Tourism Whistler website.

Cloverdale Winter Ice Palace

For over two decades, the Winter Ice Palace has been a cherished holiday tradition, bringing joy and festive cheer to people of all ages in Surrey. This enchanting annual event features the rink surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Families can lace up their skates and glide across the ice in this winter wonderland, while enjoying festive music. Find out more HERE. There is an admission fee for this one, and skate and helmet rentals are available for rent.

The Peak Of Christmas At Grouse Mountain

The Peak Of Christmas at Grouse Mountain takes you right into a winter wonderland, for a full day of Christmas activities. Watch holiday movies, be mesmerized by twinkling lights, visit Santa, go on a sleigh ride, witness real reindeer, skate on their mountain-top pond, go snowshoeing and enjoy breathtaking views of Vancouver below. All with snow-covered trees and the extra magic the Christmas season brings.

This is a bit of a more expensive activity, with pricing increasing the closer you get to Christmas, but well worth the money for a family of four (two adults and two children). Tots (ages 4 & under) are free, but still require a ticket.

The Peak Of Christmas runs from November 21 to December 24, 2025.

A Mountain Admission Ticket includes round-trip travel via the Skyride and access to open mountaintop attractions. A Mountain Admission Ticket does not include access to skiing and snowboarding.

Go to the Peak of Christmas for more details and to purchase tickets.

Vancouver Christmas Market

Visit the Vancouver Christmas Market for a touch of Germany through the holidays. This German-themed Christmas market has many artisan vendors, and German-style food and drinks. There is also a Christmas carousel and live entertainment. With a fun and festive atmosphere, it is a great spot to enjoy some mulled wine or cider under twinkling lights.

Located at Jack Poole Plaza, by the Vancouver Olympic Cauldron and Convention Center, it is a convenient location for some festive entertainment.

Go to the Vancouver Christmas Market website for more details about planning your visit.

The Vancouver Christmas Market is open between November 13 to December 24, 2025. 

Lights To The Lodge

Experience the enchanting beauty of a snow-covered forest adorned with sustainably hung twinkling lights at Cypress Mountain’s Lights to the Lodge. Immerse yourself in the holiday magic as you meander through this captivating wonderland, eventually reaching the historic Hollyburn Lodge where you can indulge in comforting cuisine and cozy beverages.

Find out more HERE. Admission available with or without snowshoe rental.

 

Burnaby Village’s Heritage Christmas

Burnaby Village’s Heritage Christmas is a great lower mainland gem, and an affordable option to take the family out during the holidays – admission is free! It is not the most elaborate display, but the lights and decorations will still get you into the Christmas mood, with some interesting history too!

You can also take a ride on the restored 1912 C.W. Parker Carousel, for $2.71 plus tax per person, per ride.

The festivities at Burnaby Village run from November 22, 2025-January 2, 2026.

Visit the Burnaby Village website for more information to plan your visit.

VanDusen Festival Of Lights

Indulge in the magic of the holiday season at VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights. Experience a winter wonderland with over one million dazzling lights spread throughout the garden, as well as festive activities and performances for all ages.

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the enchanting Dancing Lights, wander through beautifully themed light areas, and indulge in delectable treats from a delightful array of food vendors.

The festival runs from November 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026, and tickets can be purchased HERE.

Ticket Pricing:

Adults (19 to 64 years)	$29
Seniors (65 years and up) and youth (13 to 18 years)	$19
Garden Member Information icon Must present valid membership card with ticket	$18
Child (5 to 12 years)	$12
Children (4 years and under)	Free (must reserve a ticket)

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Canyon Lights at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver is Named one of the most spectacular holiday lights displays in the world. It is a magical adventure of visual enchantment, a perfect adventure full of fun for the whole family. Prepare to be dazzled high above the forest floor among the bridges and walkways.

The Capilano Suspension bridge is a major Vancouver attraction, opening in 1889. The suspension Bridge spans 137m (450 ft) and 70m (230ft) high above the Capilano River.

This year, Canyon lights run from November 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026.

Visit the Capilano Suspension bridge website for tickets and more information.

Are you a BC resident? Turn your admission ticket into a year pass for no extra charge. You can visit all year long for the cost of ONE admission fee!

Vallea Lumina In Whistler

If you’re up for a bit of a drive from Vancouver, taking a wander through a forest of enchantment at Vallea Lumina in Whistler is well worth the drive.

Walking through the forest you’re treated to a variety of multimedia displays telling old stories of the wondrous history of the land with two long-ago hikers, a little girl and her grandfather, that were following a trail of stardust to find the mystical hidden valley.

You will be completely mesmerized by the unique multimedia displays, stopping to watch several of the shows more than once.

After the snowy winter walk, warm yourself at one of the fire pits at the base camp with some s’mores.

It is an easy and well-lit path, but keep in mind that it is a 1.5km walk in the dark and you may come upon some uneven parts and a couple of small hills.

This attraction is located on Cougar Mountain, just past Whistler. While it runs throughout the year, we find the most magical time to experience it is in the snow during winter.

Learn more about Vallea Lumina by reading our review!

Playing In The Snow

It does not feel like Christmas without spending time playing in the snow.

One of the best things about Vancouver is being a hop, skip and jump away from the mountains. With several ski resorts near Vancouver, it is easy to find snow during the winter. Whether you want to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or go tubing, sledding, or build a snowman, there are plenty of options for the whole family.

You will find plenty of snow fun at Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Mount Seymor.  If you’re willing to venture a little farther, Whistler Blackcomb is a 1.5-hour drive from the city of Vancouver and is well known for its world-class skiing and facilities.

Lights At Lafarge Lake

One of the best free light displays you will find is at Lafarge Lake, a five-hectare man-made lake, located in Town Centre Park in Coquitlam. This large display lights up the 1.2km stroll around the lake. This year, there are two path options to help with social distancing.

The busiest time to visit is the few days before Christmas. Visit in early December or January for fewer crowds, with the display running from  November 28 to February 16,2026.

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