Here are our top picks of 29 amazing things to do in Vancouver in December. Metro Vancouver is a hive of activity in December as it ramps up for the busy festive season. Find incredible immersive experiences, live performances, fun-filled family events and culinary delights.
It can be one of the most memorable times of the year to visit Vancouver to explore all its festive glory. On the same day, you can be in the city checking out the Christmas Markets and then head to the mountains to a magical festive light display in a rainforest, cross the glowing suspension bridge, walk along the Cliffwalk, through the “Arc de Lumina” light tunnel and the world’s eighth tallest Christmas tree.
Some exciting new events are happening this year and we have included a few outstanding not-to-be-missed residential house displays shining bright.
If we have missed your favourite December event, let us know in the comments below and make sure to subscribe for the latest updates.
Looking more festive holiday events and the best Christmas lights see our 2025 Vancouver Christmas lights, holiday events and markets.
If you are planning to pick up a live Christmas tree don’t miss our roundup of where to find the best Christmas Tree Farms in Metro Vancouver.
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Best Things to Do in Vancouver in December Events
December is everyone’s favourite time of the year. Andy Williams famously sang the song, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”.
With the kids jingle belling
And everyone telling you be of good cheer
It’s the most wonderful time of the year
It’s the hap-happiest season of all
With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings
When friends come to call
It’s the hap-happiest season of all
Best December Christmas events in Vancouver
1. Lights of Hope St. Paul’s Hospital – November 27 – January 3, 2026
Don’t miss the spectacular 27th annual Lights of Hope display in front of St. Paul’s Hospital. Enjoy it as you walk or drive by. The light display starts on November 27, 2025.
Come enjoy the first night lighting event on November 27 from 6-8 p.m. There will be free hot chocolate, a choir, fireworks and Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Donations can be made onsite or online to support Providence Health Care hospitals. You can even buy your own star to display at home.
Location: 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver.
2. Disney’s FROZEN- The Musical, October 30, 2025–January 4, 2026
Experience the magic of Disney’s Frozen brought to life on stage. Sing along to beloved favourites like “Let It Go,” “For the First Time in Forever,” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”—plus enjoy enchanting new numbers written just for the show.
The story unfolds in Arendelle, where Queen Elsa’s hidden powers have plunged the kingdom into eternal winter. To save her sister and restore summer, Princess Anna embarks on a daring journey filled with adventure, unexpected allies, and heart. Together, Anna and Elsa must discover the strength of true love to break the storm and bring back the light.
This lively musical performance takes place on the Stanley Industrial Stage.
3. VanDusen Festival of Lights – November 28 to January 4, 2026
Vancouver’s VanDusen Festival of Lights features more than one million shimmering lights in the 15 acres of botanical gardens.
Activities: The 45-minute experience follows the one-way path through a magical wonderland with themed areas. Enjoy holiday music, dancing lights show and tasty treats are offered for purchase.
Tickets: Tickets must be booked online. There are no tickets available at the gate. The event happens rain or shine and there are no refunds.
Location: 5251 Oak St at West 37th Avenue, Vancouver.
Best December Christmas events in Vancouver BC VanDusen Festival of Lights is one of the best holiday lights displays in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
4. Uncover a Dark Truth – Murder Mystery Dinner Experience – extended until February 2026
Don’t miss this entertaining, immersive, and interactive event. In collaboration with Netflix, Secret City presents a one-of-a-kind murder
mystery dinner experience launching for the first time in Vancouver, Canada. The Perfect Bite, A Dinner Experience Inspired by Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery takes a biteout of the captivating and thrilling universe of the Knives Out film series. This immersive and interactive event will have guests on the edge of their seats as they dine together and work to uncover a dark truth.
5. The Nutcracker Ballet – December 12-21, 2025
The Nutcracker ballet is an annual classic holiday favourite. This festive season, Vancouver has two different ballet companies offering the story of Clara’s dream, her Nutcracker Prince, Sugar Plum Fairy, dancing mice, a pudding-stealing bear, toy soldiers, and other characters, danced to Tchaikovsky’s musical composition.
Royal Winnipeg Ballet – The Nutcracker – December 12-14, 2025
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet comes to the Vancouver’s Ballet BC stage at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre with their Canadian version of the Nutcracker. Get tickets here.
Goh Ballet – The Nutcracker – December 18-21, 2025
Vancouver’s Goh Ballet presents its annual retelling of the Nutcracker. Goh Ballet brings together the best local talent and Principal Dancers from world-renowned professional companies to the stage at Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Come see more than 200 dancers, actors, and gymnasts as they follow the journey of Clara’s adventures from the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets. The Vancouver Opera Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky’s ballet score. Buy tickets here.
Of special note: I’m proud to say my granddaughter is in this year’s performance.
5. 1 New Illuminated Ferris Wheel at the Art Gallery – December 2- January 3, 2026
The new Ferris Wheel is located in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery. It’s closed on Mondays, and it’s free on Tuesdays.
5.2 Ice Skating at Robson Square
Come skate at the covered ice rink at Robson Square. Skating is free, but if you need skates, the rental charge is $5. Look for the nightly entertainers.
6. Cirque du Soleil LUZIA – November 4, 2026 – December 13, 2026
Cirque du Soleil will not return to Vancouver under the Big Top at Concord Pacific until November 4, 2026, but tickets to LUZIA are on sale now. This show brings a new performance to Vancouver, featuring surprising twists.
LUZIA is a vibrant journey through an imaginary Mexico, blending breathtaking acrobatics with stunning visuals, from urban sets to deserts and ocean, showcasing Mexico’s rich heritage and modern allure. Refreshing and unexpected, LUZIA enchants by artistically incorporating water into the acrobatic presentation – a first for a Cirque du Soleil touring production.
6. 2 Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women – Nov 27, 2025–Jan 4, 2026
Follow the lives of the March sisters—independent Jo, traditional Meg, gentle Beth, and spirited Amy—as they navigate the joys and struggles of young adulthood during the Civil War. Though each has a different vision of womanhood, together they discover the strength to shape their own destinies. This radiant adaptation by Lauren M. Gunderson captures the enduring themes of love, loss, friendship, and self-discovery that have made Louisa May Alcott’s novel a cherished favourite for generations. Experience the story anew in this heartfelt stage production.
Granville Island Stage
7. PNE Winter Lights Fair and Holiday Market- December 6-8, 12-23, 2025
In our opinion, this event ranks as one of the best light shows on the Lower Mainland.
The PNE Express Train travels through mesmerizing light tunnels that mimic the dazzling Northern Lights and passes by fantastical displays. Don’t miss the Nutcracker on Ice at the Pacific Coliseum, blending ballet and ice skating in a magical winter wonderland with captivating choreography and stunning costumes.
Activities: There is a magical walk-through lights display, nightly tree lighting ceremony of the 50-foot tree, holiday-themed ice skating and Ice Bumper Cars in the Agrodome featuring live music, family-friendly holiday theatre shows, the Magic of Santa Holiday Musical and group performances, carollers, a Christmas edition of Duelling Pianos, an outdoor marketplace, tasty food and beverages. There are two new rides added this year. Riding the Berry-Go-Round, Ferris Wheel, and Bumper Cars is an additional fee.
The walk-through light display takes you through enchanted lands to see winter creatures and experience the Northern Lights in light tunnels, Polar North and Candy Cane Lane. If you are a BCAA member, take advantage of the 30% discount for tickets. Website: https://www.pne.ca/winter/
One of the best Vancouver holiday light displays is at the PNE Winter Lights Fair. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
8. Vancouver Christmas Market – November 13 – December 24, 2025
Activities: Vancouver’s beloved Christmas Market is back with all the festive fun, great gift ideas, festive foods and drinks. There are over 90 European and local artisan stalls to enjoy. Ride the magical Carousel. Get into the holiday spirit with holiday entertainment. There are lots of gourmet treats along the Gourmetstrasse.
Christmas Market Tickets: Book tickets in advance.
Location: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver.
Holiday lights and entertainment at the Christmas Market in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Delicious food and drink options are available at the Christmas Market in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
9. Winterlust at the H Tasting Lounge – December 2025
At the Westin Bayshore, H Tasting Lounge’s Winterlust Domes are set along the waterfront, offering a private setting for small groups of up to six. The elaborate menu offers small plates, entrees and for the table dishes ranging from seafood platters with lobster to sablefish and Thor’s Hammer, a 24-hour-braised beef shank.
Winterlust at the H Tasting Lounge books up fast. One year, I dined there on Boxing Day as a birthday surprise, and it stands out as one of my most memorable birthday dinners. We were lucky to secure a reservation on the same day due to a cancellation.
Location: 1601 Bayshore Drive, Vancouver.
Reservations are a must.
9. 1 Festive Afternoon Tea at H Tasting Lounge (The Westin Bayshore)
H Tasting Lounge’s Festive Afternoon Tea is absolutely magical. Pastry Chef Martha Ebro has carefully curated a selection of sweet and savoury bites with seasonal teas from O-Five Rare Tea. There is also a variety of impressive Christmas cocktails available. Served Saturdays and Sundays through December.
Festive Holiday Dining Ideas in Vancouver_ Christmas Brunch, Dinners and NYE – Festive Afternoon Tea at the H Tasting Lounge of the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. Courtesy Photo.
10. Christmas with Chor Leoni – December 18, 19, 20, 2025
Canada’s most awarded choir, Chor Leoni, presents its annual Yuletide tradition with a welcoming program of cherished melodies, modern carols, and reimagined folk classics on December 18 at 7:30 pm, December 19 at 5 pm and 8 pm, and December 20 at 2 pm, 5 pm, and 8 pm. Nestled in the warmth and beauty of one of Vancouver’s most striking historic venues at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United (1022 Nelson St).
For tickets and information, visit chorleoni.org
10.1 Winter Solstice Light Festival – December 21, 2025
The 30th Winter Solstice Light Festival takes place in two Vancouver neighbourhoods, Granville Island and Yaletown.
Experience the Labyrinth of Light on the darkest night of the year. A self-guided ceremony with over 600 pure beeswax candles. The ritual is intended to help release old attachments and envision new possibilities.
Buy tickets here
11. Bright Nights Stanley Park is moving to the Noel Festival in Surrey
11A. Harry Potter™: A Forbidden Forest Experience Debuts in Vancouver’s Stanley Park
For the first time in Canada, Harry Potter™: A Forbidden Forest Experience is coming to Stanley Park this fall. Opening November 7, 2025, the illuminated nighttime trail invites fans to step into the wizarding world and explore the magical Forbidden Forest as seen in the films.
The interactive, family-friendly experience features an enchanting outdoor path filled with glowing creatures like Hippogriffs and Nifflers, plus opportunities to practice spell-casting. The journey ends in a themed village with food, drinks, and a shop offering official Harry Potter merchandise.
Already a hit in the UK, US, Australia, Singapore, and France—where it has welcomed more than two million visitors—the Vancouver edition is expected to be a must-see event for locals and tourists alike.
• Dates: Opens November 7, 2025, for a limited engagement
• Location: Stanley Park, Vancouver
• Tickets: From $49.50, available now at HPForbiddenForestExperience.com
12. Holiday Splash at The Vancouver Aquarium – November 12 – January 5, 2026
Activities: The Holiday Splash at the Vancouver Aquarium includes twice-daily dives by Scuba Claus until December 24 , Glowing Jelly Snow Globe and Penguins 4D, this year’s Holiday Splash feature film. Holiday treats are available for purchase. Breakfast with Santa is back on selected dates.
Admission: Book your tickets in advance. For November 12-24, buy one regular admission and get a child admission free.
Location: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver
Meeting Santa Claus at Holiday Splash at the Vancouver Aquarium
13. Granville Island Festive Christmas and Holiday Lights – November 12 – January 3, 2026
Activities: Wander through the fresh air of almost 40 acres of Granville Island to see the light displays. Takeout hot drinks and treats are available, and other food options with patios. Admission: There is no admission.
Hours: Starts November 12, 2024, from sunset to 10 pm. daily.
Closed: All businesses, including Granville Island Market, are closed on December 25 and 26, 2024, but lights will be on. Location: 1661 Duranleau St.
14. Christmas at Canada Place is cancelled but there are still free Fire Shows
Enjoy spectacular Fire Shows performances by Ember Arts Fire at Canada Place on Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM & 8:30 PM
The complete Canada Place experience will return next year. Ongoing construction has kept this popular holiday event closed.
Website: Canada Place
15. Hyatt Gingerbread Lane – November 27-December 28, 2025
This wonderful holiday tradition is back to celebrate its 33 years! Come down to the Hyatt Regency in downtown Vancouver and see the wonderful gingerbread creations. The aroma of gingerbread fills the hotel lobby. You won’t be disappointed —it’s a free event.
16. Soar Like Santa at Fly Over Canada – November 20-December 31, 2025
Activities: Soar with Santa on a magical Christmas journey across Canada and up to the North Pole.
Admission: Buy tickets online and save. Ticket prices vary by day but start from: Adults: $28, Children: $18 up to age 12 and at least 102 cm / 40 inches tall.
Location: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
17. Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum – November 22 – January 2, 2026
Activities: Walk through the 1920s village adorned with dazzling lights and vintage-themed displays. Take a ride on the vintage carousel. Mai’s Cafe is open for treats or a meal. Carousel rides are available for a fee. See a map of the village.
Location: 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby, just off Canada Way.
Bright in Burnaby
The official launch of Heritage Christmas takes place November 30 from 5-9 pm, with a tree lighting ceremony at 6 pm. Proceeds from carousel rides on this night will go to the Burnaby Christmas Bureau with Concord Pacific matching the donations.
One of the best free lights displays near Vancouver is Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
18. Holiday Enchanted Forest – Squamish Canyon
New this year! Step into a world where woodland friends come alive with holiday magic. Wander through the Squamish Canyon, transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland and feel the enchantment of the season all around you.
19. Winter in the Village in Steveston – December 1-31, 2025
Activities: Explore the decorated historic sites of Richmond’s charming waterfront village of Steveston.
“Light Up the Village” self-guided tour.
Location: Steveston Village
Website: Visit Richmond
20. Holiday History and Hot Chocolate Tour by Forbidden Vancouver – November 15 through December 2025
The Holiday History and Hot Chocolate walking tour strolls through Vancouver’s heritage architecture. Hear scandalous stories and see holiday lights. Start the 1.5-hour tour with hot cocoa from Trees in hand and end with a tour inside the fabulous Marine building, all lit up for the holidays. The meeting point is outside Trees Cafe at 738 Granville Street.
21. Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge – November 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Activities: Journey through a magical festive light display in a rainforest high above the Capilano River Canyon. Cross the glowing suspension bridge, walk along the Cliffwalk and through the “Arc de Lumina” light tunnel. The world’s eighth-tallest Christmas tree is found at the Treetops Adventure.
The park is closed on Christmas Day. It is located at Capilano Suspension Bridge, 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver. A free shuttle is available from Canada Place.
Canyon Lights Metro Vancouver Cliffwalk u-shaped bridge at Canyon Lights.
22. Harrison Lights on the Lake – November 22, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Harrison Hot Springs lakefront will be lit up from dusk until 11 pm. Stroll along the 1 km waterfront promenade to see the sparkling light display. The holiday lights focus on the natural environment, wildlife and the elusive Sasquatch.
Website: Harrison Lights on the Lake
23. Glow Langley at Milner Village Garden Centre Christmas Lights – November 20 – December 30, 2025
Langley’s Christmas Glow is a walk-around adventure with a new “Christmas Carnival” theme.
Activities: Find Santa’s elves in a scavenger hunt as you wander through the sea of giant ornaments, the forest of dancing magical trees and a dazzling display of almost one million lights. Visit the animated musical tunnel, Elf Castle, swings, hopscotch, playpark, bouncy farm and take a ride on the Glow Comotive. Meet special characters and the Glow princesses. Plan a visit with Santa, who will be there nightly until December 24.
There will be featured food trucks and entertainment.
Tickets: Buy tickets online.
Hours: Select times between 4-10 pm, November 21-December 28, 2025.
Location: Milner Village Garden Centre, 6690 216th Street, Langley.
24. The best Festive Culinary Events in Vancouver featuring afternoon teas, dinners and New Year’s
Looking for holiday dining ideas in Vancouver during the season? From festive Christmas brunches and elegant holiday dinners to afternoon teas, cozy cocktail pop-ups and chef-prepared meals to take home, December is one of the city’s most food-driven months. See the full article.
25. The Gingerbread Men – A holiday Cabaret – December 17-21, 2025
A classic cabaret, The Gingerbread Men presents classic holiday songs, and harmonies. The charming quartet spice up the performance with witty banter and nostalgia.
Location: Newmont Stage, BMO Theatre Centre
26. Winterfest and Christmas Train at Bear Creek Park – December 1-31, 2025
Activities: During the day enjoy arts and crafts, Santa, a train ride and lots of photo opportunities. At night enjoy a train journey through a magical light display. Santa leaves on December 24.
Santa Express Day Train, 7 days a week – 10 am – 4 pm.
Christmas Night Train through the light display, Wednesday through Sunday, 6 – 9 pm. Closed on December 25 and 26.
Location: Bear Creek Park – 13750 88th Avenue at King George Blvd., Surrey
Email: contact@bctrains.com
Phone: 604-501-1232
Website: Bear Creek Christmas Train
26.1 Surrey Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Market – November 23 and 24, 2025
Activities: Santa and Mrs. Claus host the event, which includes the lighting of Surrey’s 60-foot Christmas tree, followed by entertainment from a variety of local performers, dance groups, choirs and more. Be sure to visit the Holiday Market.
Children can enjoy free pictures with Santa, free hot chocolate, free holiday cookie kits, Kids’ Crafts, magical light and holiday displays, and illuminated swings and teeter-totters.
The Enchanted Eats zone offers delicious treats for purchase from food trucks and free hot chocolate while it lasts.
Admission: Free
Location: Surrey Civic Plaza, 1340 104 Avenue, Surrey
Website: Surrey Tree Lighting Festival
26.2 Noel Lighting Festival – November 26-December 28, 2025
Bright Lights from Stanley Park is joining the Noel Lighting Festival. This event takes place at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, both indoors and outdoors. The immersive experience festival is bigger and better and features over 1 million dazzling lights, a 300-ft light tunnel and other illuminated displays.
27. Lights at Lafarge – November 28 – End of February 2026
Activities: The winter Lights at Lafarge has two walking loops to help disperse crowding.
Admission: Free. Parking is limited. Consider walking or taking the SkyTrain to Lafage Lake – Douglas station.
Hours: November 28 – End of February 2026 from 4 pm – 10 pm. Avoid the crowds for the best viewing experience. Come before 6 pm or after 8 pm. Try to avoid the crowds on weekends and the week of December 16 – 26.
Location: Town Centre Park, 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
28. North Pole Express at the Railway Museum of British Columbia – Select dates from November 29 – December 21, 2025
Activities: Board a one-hour ride on the North Pole Express to find Santa Claus. On your journey, meet elves, sing songs and be entertained. Enjoy freshly baked cookies and candy canes onboard the train. When you arrive at the North Pole, there will be arts and crafts, hot chocolate, cotton candy, ride a holiday mini rail train, and explore the holiday model train displays and more. Admission: Tickets are sold in pairs only.
Tickets: Available online here.
Location: 39645 Government Road, Squamish
Website: The North Pole Express
29. Martini Town Merry and Bright – November 21-December 31, 2025
Martini Film Studios is open to the public to experience a unique outdoor holiday experience. The talented team of skilled film industry crew is transforming the studios’ backlot into a magical Christmas wonderland.
Martini Town is where numerous TV series, movies, and commercials as well as over 12 Hallmark movies have been filmed. Visit a New York City Street, courthouse, diner, town square and small town decked out in holiday splendor. There will be entertainment with an array of singers, choirs, entertainers, and Santa Claus. Food and drink is available for purchase from food trucks and the cafe.
The event is capacity controlled and the purchase of advance tickets is highly recommended. Open Wednesday through Sunday every week throughout December and December 26th (Boxing Day).
Outstanding Residential Home Light Displays Shine Bright
Langley Santa Claus Lane Paired with William Park
Take a stroll down Santa Claus Lane between 209A St. & 84th Avenue in Langley, where more than 12 houses are fully decorated. Then head to a free drive-through light display at Williams Park, but check the dates here first and register.
Coquitlam Dangville Miniature Christmas Village
The Dangville Miniature Christmas Village is made with so much love for the community. Joe Dang and Julie Brassington set up this massive miniature village in a two-car garage. at 2638 Brewster Drive. It has grown over the years and now extends into their home.
They invite people to visit their home and walk through the Miniature Christmas Village. They are requesting that people schedule a time to stop by. They accept visitors daily from 9 am to 9 pm. All you need to do is email Joe at JoeDang2638@gmail.com or Julie at Juliebis@icloud.com or call Joe at 778-229-4181 to arrange for your private tour.
Charity donations are accepted but not required.
Burnaby DuPlessis Family Christmas Display
A long-running Burnaby favourite, the DuPlessis family faithfully create a music-synced Christmas light display that has become a December tradition for many families. Donations support the B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation. 8222 Burnlake Drive.
Vancouver Displays
Discover a free 35-minute daily light show at East 45 Avenue and 6080 Ross Street. Shows are at 6 and 8 pm.
Trinity Street Lights – Drive-by Christmas Lights
The Trinity Street Light Festival has been a tradition for more than 20 years.
The Trinity Street neighbourhood continues to make spirits bright along six blocks, from 2400 to 2900 Trinity Street, in East Vancouver.
Did we miss your favourites? Let us know in the comments below and remember to subscribe here to be alerted to our next article.
Don’t miss these stops to check out near Vancouver on one of your next outings:
10 easy Vancouver hikes to explore, Top things to do Sea to Sky Highway, one of the most scenic drives in North America
Epic BC road trip to Banff, a 21-day adventure of a lifetime – Part 1, Discover More in Port Alberni: Your Guide to 21 Local Travel Adventures , Top things to do from Victoria to Pacific Rim National Park , Scenic trails of Whatcom Falls Park, Bellingham, Washington
About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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