Christmas is just around the corner, but there is still time to check out some festive Christmas events around Metro Vancouver, including a few classic events. So if you're looking for some things to do in Vancouver on Christmas weekend, here are a few events you won't want to miss.
Just be sure to be mindful of the weather!
Christmas in Metro Vancouver: Things To Do
Canada Place is hosting its annual Christmas festivities, including Woodward's Windows, the Sails of Light, the Avenue of Trees, and ChrisMoose, a 15-ft tall lighted moose. And entry is free!
A tradition that started in 1998, the Lights of Hope is an annual fundraising campaign for patients, caregivers, and frontline workers across Providence Health Care, with a light display featuring donor names on nightly throughout the holiday season.
A classic Vancouver Christmas activity, the ice rink at Robson Square will of course be open (between 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm on Christmas Day), with skate rentals at $5, taxes and helmets included!
Holiday Splash at the Vancouver Aquarium
Scuba Claus will only be around until Christmas Eve (he has more important things to do), but the Aquarium will be open on Christmas Day (from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm), with a 4D showing of The Polar Express as well as the Jelly Snow Globe, not to mention a special selection of holiday-themed sweets and treats.
One of the more unique events on this list, Canyon Lights is always a wonderous treat to venture through a festively-lit forest, not to mention the Arc de Lumina light tunnel, and, of course, Suspension Bridge Park. Canyon Lights is not open on Christmas Day, but tickets are still available for before then (and after).
If you're looking for a unique last-minute Christmas present or some holiday treats, you may be able to find one at the Vancouver Christmas Market, which is open until 6:00 pm on Christmas Eve. As usual, there are a variety of vendors of trinkets, and even more vendors selling food, so make sure you bring an empty stomach.
VanDusen Botanical Garden Festival of Lights
Is it really Christmas if you don't check out a fun light display? VanDusen Botanical Garden is on a short list of the best places in Vancouver when it comes to light displays, whether it's the Dancing Lights display, or the romantic rose garden. The Garden isn't open on Christmas Day, but is open from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm every day before and after (until January 2).
Similar to Canyon Lights, Whistler's Vallea Lumina is also quite the experience. A trek through the forest is guided by a narrative about two long-ago hikers on a quest looking for a hidden valley where stardust supposedly falls from the sky. And tickets are still available for Christmas Day!
