VanDusen Festival of Lights 2025–2026

The VanDusen Festival of Lights returns from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026, transforming VanDusen Botanical Garden into a stunning holiday wonderland filled with more than one million lights. Spanning 15 acres, this annual Vancouver tradition features illuminated trails, themed exhibits, dancing light shows, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the garden.

For full event details, visit the official event website on City of Vancouver – Festival of Lights

Event Overview

The 2025–2026 edition features both returning favourites and brand-new installations designed to celebrate nature, light, and the spirit of the season.

Highlighted features include:

Wood Wide Web
An interactive mycelium-inspired display that brings underground networks to life through light.

Salmon Run
A glowing pathway inspired by BC’s iconic salmon migration.

Great Bear Rainforest Exhibit
New for 2025, located inside the Visitor Centre, showcasing rainforest-themed lighting and storytelling.

Dancing Lights
Three unique musical light shows, presented every 20 minutes throughout the evening.

Guests can also enjoy warm beverages, desserts, and savoury dishes from a variety of food vendors located throughout the garden.

Dates and Hours

November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Closed on December 25
Last entry between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM

The event operates rain or shine.

Location

VanDusen Botanical Garden
5251 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC
Entry through the Visitor Centre.

Tickets

All tickets must be purchased online in advance for a designated entry time.

Pricing (before tax and service fees):
• Adults (19–64): $29
• Seniors (65+) and Youth (13–18): $19
• Garden Members: $18
• Children (5–12): $12
• Children 4 and under: Free (ticket required)

One dollar from every ticket supports future improvements at the garden and conservatory.

Early Bird Savings
Save 10% when purchasing before November 28.

Group Discounts
Groups of 50 or more automatically receive a 10% discount.

Sensory-Friendly Night

A sensory-friendly evening will take place on Tuesday, December 2.
During this event:

• Attendance is reduced by 50 percent
• Sound levels are lowered
• Flashing lights are turned off

This evening is designed to provide a comfortable environment for neurodiverse guests, families, and caregivers.

Know Before You Go

• Tickets are sold online only and must be purchased for a specific entry time.
• Visitors must arrive within their designated half-hour window.
• Re-entry is not permitted.
• No outside food or beverages allowed.
• Professional photography and props are not permitted during event hours.
• Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Tickets are non-refundable but can be exchanged up to 12 hours before entry.

Parking, Transit, and Washrooms

Parking
Parking is limited and free. Transit is recommended. The garden is located on the #17 Oak bus route and is a 15-minute walk from Oakridge–41st Station.

Washrooms
Portable toilets are located throughout the event. Full washrooms are available in the Visitor Centre.

Food and Beverage

A wide selection of local vendors will be available, serving warm treats, beverages, and meals. Dining options include:

• Cin City Donuts
• Ay! Mamacita
• Fireside Fondue
• Chai Wagon
• Japadog
• Triple O’s
• Garden Café
• Shaughnessy Restaurant and Wine Patio (licensed for ages 19+)
• And several others

High tea and picnics are not available during the event.

Accessibility

Most paved garden paths are accessible for wheelchairs, mobility devices, and strollers. Some paths may be uneven.

Additional accessibility notes:
• Accessible washrooms available in the Visitor Centre
• Accessible parking spaces located in the West 37th Avenue lot
• Accessible drop-off loop available near the front entrance
• Attendants assisting visitors with disabilities receive free admission
• Service animals are welcome; pets are not permitted

Weather Considerations

The event continues in rain, snow, or cold weather.
If severe weather requires closure, updates will be posted through the VanDusen information line and the garden’s official social channels.

Discover more upcoming events in Vancouver on
Vancouver Page – Discover Local Events