Santa at the Cannery 2025 – Free Photos with Santa in Steveston

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at Santa at the Cannery 2025, a beloved annual tradition at the historic Gulf of Georgia Cannery in Steveston. On Sunday, December 7, families are invited to enjoy free admission, festive entertainment, holiday activities, and a special meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

This charming event transforms one of Steveston’s most iconic heritage sites into a warm and welcoming winter celebration perfect for kids, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a nostalgic holiday outing by the water.

Event Overview

📅 Date: Sunday, December 7, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎅 Photos with Santa: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site (Steveston, Richmond)
🎟 Admission: Free (Photos with Santa require a free timed-entry ticket)
👨‍👩‍👧 Suitable for: Families and children

Spend the day exploring beautifully decorated exhibits, enjoying live music, taking part in holiday traditions, and experiencing one of Steveston’s most festive annual events.

What to Expect at Santa at the Cannery

From morning until late afternoon, the Cannery offers a full day of holiday programming:

🎄 Free Admission to the Cannery

Guests can explore the historic site free of charge throughout the day. Discover the heritage exhibits, enjoy the festive decorations, and take in the holiday spirit surrounding the event.

🎅 Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus (2 PM – 4 PM)

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be waiting to meet families in the Cannery’s Boiler House Theatre.

• Photos are free

• A free timed-entry ticket is required

• Families must bring their own camera, smartphone, or device

• No professional photography is provided

Timed tickets help manage crowds and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

🎄 Festival of Trees

Take in the Cannery’s Festival of Trees, featuring beautifully decorated community entries. Visitors can vote for their favourite tree free of charge.

🎶 Live Musical Performances

Enjoy live seasonal music on the Cannery stage throughout the day.

🌟 Family-Friendly Activities

Engaging holiday activities and festive touches will be available to make the visit even more memorable.
Please dress warmly — the Cannery’s interior can be colder than the outdoor temperature due to its waterside structure and historic architecture.

Photos with Santa – Ticket Information (Free)

Tickets are required only for Photos with Santa and are available in person on December 7.

🎟 Ticket Pickup Details

• Tickets available starting at 10:30 AM

• Pickup table is located outside the Cannery’s front doors
  (moves to Lobby during inclement weather)

• Tickets are first-come, first-served

• Maximum 2 tickets per person

• Each ticket admits one family group (approx. up to 6 people)

⏱ Time Slots

Tickets are divided into 30-minute windows:

• 2:00 – 2:30 PM

• 2:30 – 3:00 PM

• 3:00 – 3:30 PM

• 3:30 – 4:00 PM

Each slot has 25 tickets available.

🚫 What if tickets run out?

Extra space may become available at the end of each block; families can check with staff at:

• 2:20 PM

• 2:50 PM

• 3:20 PM

• 3:50 PM

Entry is not guaranteed without a ticket.

Visitor Tips

• Bring your own phone/camera

• Dress warmly — the Cannery can be chilly

• No food or drinks inside the Cannery or Boiler House Theatre

• Have your timed-entry ticket ready at the lineup

For further questions, guests can contact the Cannery’s program team directly.

Why Attend Santa at the Cannery?

This annual holiday event combines local history with festive fun, offering:

• Free admission

• Free photos with Santa

• Holiday entertainment

• Seasonal community displays

• A welcoming family atmosphere

• A highlight of Steveston’s December event calendar

Perfect for capturing holiday memories, enjoying time with loved ones, and kicking off the season in a truly unique setting.