November is Vancouver’s rainiest month, but the city makes up for it with Remembrance Day ceremonies, Diwali, craft fairs and the opening of Christmas markets and light displays later in the month.
November in Vancouver at a glance
- Average high / low: 9°C / 4°C
- Precipitation: about 175 mm, on about 20 days
- Daylight: about 9 hours a day
- Sunshine: about 60 hours over the month
- What it feels like: the wettest month, with the holiday season starting
Weather in Vancouver in November
Highs average about 9°C and lows about 4°C, with rain on about two days in three. Clocks go back on the first Sunday of November, so it is dark by about 4:30 pm. The ski season usually opens on the mountains late in the month.
Averages are for Vancouver International Airport, 1991 to 2020, from Environment and Climate Change Canada (sunshine 1981 to 2010). The North Shore and the mountains are cooler and wetter than the city.
What to pack for Vancouver in November
- A good waterproof jacket and waterproof shoes
- Warm layers and a hat
- An umbrella for calm days
Events and festivals in November
- Remembrance Day ceremonies on November 11, including Victory Square
- Diwali celebrations in years when the festival falls in November
- The Circle Craft Christmas Market and holiday craft fairs across Metro Vancouver
- The Vancouver Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza, usually opening in mid to late November
- Canyon Lights at Capilano and The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
- St. Paul’s Lights of Hope and other light displays
- For more holiday ideas, see our sister site Vancouver Christmas
Dates change every year. See the November events calendar for this year’s dates, or check things to do in Vancouver today and this weekend.
Things to do in Vancouver in November
- Spend rainy days at the Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, the Museum of Anthropology or the Space Centre
- Shop the craft fairs and the Vancouver Christmas Market
- See the lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Warm up at the Bloedel Conservatory
- Storm-watch on the Seawall or at Spanish Banks on a windy day
- Browse more ideas in our rainy day guide
Tips for visiting Vancouver in November
- November is low season, so hotel rates are some of the lowest of the year.
- Remembrance Day is a statutory holiday.
- Christmas markets and light shows sell timed tickets; book weekend evenings early.
Plan your trip
Build a day out with our free trip planner, follow one of our Vancouver itineraries or browse all upcoming events in Vancouver. On wet days, our rainy day guide has plenty of indoor ideas.
Frequently asked questions
Is November a good time to visit Vancouver?
It is the rainiest month, but it is also quiet and good value, with holiday markets and lights opening late in the month.
How rainy is Vancouver in November?
It is the wettest month, with about 175 mm of precipitation and rain on about 20 days.
When do the Christmas markets open in Vancouver?
The Vancouver Christmas Market usually opens in mid to late November. Check our November events calendar for dates.
Vancouver month by month
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