Top 10 Christmas Events in Vancouver: A Magical Guide to Festive Delights in 2023
The holiday season in Vancouver is a magical time, and 2023 promises to be no exception. With a plethora of enchanting events and activities, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of some of the must-attend events in Vancouver this Christmas, brought to you by the Vancouver Page
1. Experience the Enchantment: Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge 2023! ?✨
Dates: Until January 21, 2024
Capilano Suspension Bridge takes the lead in spreading holiday cheer with its spectacular Canyon Lights event. The iconic bridge is adorned with a mesmerizing, ever-changing multi-color display, creating a magical experience high above the twinkling Capilano River. Visitors can embark on a journey through a sparkling rainforest, stroll along the cliffside pathway of Cliffwalk, and capture Instagram-worthy photos amidst dazzling lights.
The event also features live festive tunes, decadent hot chocolate, and a variety of festive kids’ activities. What’s even more heartwarming is that Canyon Lights Gives Back, supporting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund and local charities. ??
Event Info: Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge 2023
2. Christmas Glow Langley 2023: Step Right Up to the Christmas Carnival! ?
Dates: November 23 – December 30, 2023
Langley welcomes visitors to Christmas Glow, an outdoor family-friendly walk-around festival with a dazzling “Christmas Carnival” theme. The showgrounds come alive with spectacular lights, a free craft corner, captivating scavenger hunt, Merry Maker’s Market, live performances, gourmet food trucks, and interactive play zones.
The Glow-comotive train ride makes a return, promising a magical journey through the enchanting showgrounds. Special offerings include free snack nights, hot chocolate, and lattes. With expanded spaces, carnival-themed mini-games, and a festive atmosphere, Christmas Glow Langley is a must-visit for families and friends. ?✨
Event Info: Christmas Glow Langley 2023
3. Vancouver Christmas Market 2023: A Festive Wonderland at Jack Poole Plaza! ? ?
Dates: November 16th to December 24th
The Vancouver Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza promises an enchanting experience with a variety of festive activities. From Christmas karaoke and trivia nights to artisan shops and international gourmet delights at Gourmetstrasse, the market offers a plethora of attractions.
The Aeroplan Holiday Carousel, Sky Curtain of Lights, and a walk-in Christmas tree with 36,000 twinkling lights add to the festive magic. With daily live entertainment, a love lock installation, and a Christmas scavenger hunt for kids, the market is a festive wonderland for all. ?✨
More Info: Vancouver Christmas Market 2023
4. VanDusen Festival of Lights: A Dazzling Holiday Spectacle in Vancouver! ?
Dates: November 24 – January 7
VanDusen Botanical Garden transforms into a magical wonderland during the Festival of Lights. Highlights include themed light areas inspired by BC’s endangered Garry oak meadows, a dancing lights extravaganza, tasty treats from food vendors, and a charitable giving opportunity at the Scottish Shelter.
Visitors can explore enchanting light displays, indulge in delicious treats, and contribute to the spirit of giving by supporting Make-A-Wish. VanDusen Festival of Lights is a celebration of lights, joy, and the magic of the season. ?✨
More Info: VanDusen Festival of Lights
5. PNE Winter Fair 2023 – A Festive Extravaganza! ??
Event Details: December 8-9, 14-23, 4 pm to 10 pm
The PNE Winter Fair promises a PNE-style winter wonderland filled with lights, food, skating, ice bumper cars, shows, and shopping. Highlights include interactive Santa-themed adventures, the Nutcracker on Ice, the PNE Express Train – Holiday Edition, and the “Sparkle in the Night” holiday show.
With winter chalet live music, a WinterLights display, and the PNE Holiday Express, the fair offers a unique and exciting experience for the whole family. Don’t miss the chance to create wonderful holiday memories at the PNE Winter Fair! ?❄️
More Info: PNE Winter Fair 2023
6. The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain in Vancouver ?
Dates: November 24th to December 25th, 2023
Grouse Mountain transforms into Vancouver’s North Pole during The Peak of Christmas. Highlights include The Light Walk at Blue Grouse Lake with breathtaking light installations, a mountaintop ice skating pond, and festive activities at The Theatre in the Sky.
Visitors can meet Santa in his workshop, witness the charm of real reindeer, and enjoy the Mountaintop Skating Pond. Special offers include a limited-time Family Day Ticket, and visitors can also savor Breakfast with Santa in Altitudes Bistro. It’s not just an event; it’s a celebration of lights, joy, and the magic of the season. ?❤️
More Info: The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
7. Holiday Splash at Vancouver Aquarium – Dive Into Oceans Of Holiday Magic! ✨?
Dates: Until January 7, 2024
Vancouver Aquarium invites you to dive into oceans of holiday magic at their enchanting Holiday Splash event. Experience the wonders of the ocean combined with the magic of the holidays. Wave to Scuba Claus during his daily dives, enjoy the family favorite THE POLAR EXPRESS™ 4D Experience® and indulge in new seasonal sweets and treats. The event includes hands-on fun with animals, a Jelly Snow Globe for family portraits, and the opportunity to explore the Arctic Wet Lab.
For educational fun, Ocean Explorers Winter Camp offers a chance for young minds to be inspired by marine life. Give back to a good cause with the Toy Drive partnering with the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau. The event takes place at 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2. Make a splash this holiday season at Vancouver Aquarium’s Holiday Splash! ?✨
More Info: Holiday Splash at Vancouver Aquarium
8. Martini Town Merry & Bright Holiday Lights 2023 in Langley! ✨?
Dates: December – Unleash the Magic
Martini Film Studios opens its doors to the public, transforming Martini Town into a Christmas wonderland. The unique event promises a magical journey through movie sets turned into festive landscapes. Explore the exterior Film Backlot, including a New York City Street, courthouse, diner, town square, and a charming small town, all transformed into a winter wonderland. Immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of the season with heartwarming classic decorations and modern light displays that promise to dazzle and delight. Martini Town Merry & Bright offers a holiday experience like no other.
The event takes place at Martini Film Studios, 1123 272 Street, Langley, BC V4W 2M7. Don’t miss this opportunity to step into the world of movie magic and celebrate the season with Martini Town Merry & Bright. Bring your family and friends for a memorable holiday experience filled with lights, joy, and the enchantment of Martini Town! ??
More Info: Martini Town Merry & Bright Holiday Lights
9. Liven UP – Coal Harbour: A Magical Winter Celebration! ✨
Dates: December 1-30, 2023, every Friday & Saturday, 5-10 PM
Experience the enchantment of Liven UP – Coal Harbour, a magical winter celebration taking place from December 1-30, 2023, every Friday & Saturday, 5-10 PM. Enjoy larger-than-life lighting installations along the stunning seawall, suspended lights guiding your way to a world of wonder, live music, fire performers, artists, and storytellers every Friday & Saturday.
The Harbour Green Park Stage offers a cozy hub with a live music stage and a bar serving delightful hot drinks. Revel in live performances by talented musicians, witness mesmerizing fire performances, and immerse yourself in art installations along the route. Connect with friends, family, and your community, sharing the joy of the season with cultural groups that shape the city. All event activations are accessible and free for everyone to enjoy. Explore the beauty from Canada Place to Cardero Park and make lasting memories at Liven UP – Coal Harbour! ?✨
More Info: Liven UP – Coal Harbour
10. Christmas at Gingerbread Lane – Vancouver’s Hyatt Regency ✨?
Dates: December 1st to 29th, 2023
Celebrate the 31st Annual Gingerbread Lane Event at Vancouver’s Hyatt Regency, located at 655 Burrard Street near Georgia. Step into the enchanting world of Gingerbread Lane, a festive display of delectable Christmas gingerbread creations in the heart of downtown Vancouver. The edible Gingerbread Lane buildings, crafted by various bakeries, cooking institutes, restaurants, public schools, and talented individuals, are displayed in the lobby. Marvel at a giant, almost life-size cookie house display capturing the essence of the season.
Explore a variety of artistic gingerbread creations on display, each telling a unique story of holiday magic and creativity. The event is not only free but also supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Vote for your favorite cookie house entry and be part of the festive excitement! Experience the sweet magic of the season and join in spreading joy and goodwill at Gingerbread Lane. ???✨
More Info: Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency Vancouver
