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.
New December Events in Vancouver
- Martini Town Merry and Bright – 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.
- Liven Up Coal Harbour is a month-long family-friendly activation that will see lighting installations, artists, musicians, and storytellers animate this spectacular walk from Canada Place to Cardero Park.
- This year the PNE Winter Lights Fair has a PNE Express Train that travel 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.
- The beloved Stanley Park Christmas train is back.
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 2023 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 – Drive-by Christmas Lights 2023
Don’t miss the spectacular Lights of Hope display in front of St. Paul’s Hospital. Enjoy it as you walk or drive by. The light display starts November 16, 2023.
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.
Best December Christmas events in Vancouver – Lights of Hope at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver. Courtesy Photo
2. VanDusen Festival of Lights – November 24 to January 3, 2024
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©
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3. The Nutcracker Ballet – December 9-17, 2023
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 musical composition.
Royal Winnipeg Ballet – The Nutcracker – December 7-10, 2023
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 14-17, 2023
Vancouver’s Goh Ballet presents their 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.
4. Cirque du Soleil Kooza – October 21 – December 31, 2023
The Cirque du Soleil brings a new performance to Vancouver this season. Kooza is about the bizarre, exotic world of a clown called, The Innocent. The entertaining journey Under the Big Top at Concord Pacific place features the Wheel of Death, Skeleton Dance, double highwire acts and more to thrill any audience.
Admission: Tickets must be purchased in advance online.
5. PNE Winter Lights Fair and Holiday Market- December 8-9, 14-23, 2023
In our opinion, this event ranks as one of the best light shows on the Lower Mainland.
New this year is the PNE Express Train 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.
The walk-through light display takes you through enchanted lands to see winter creatures, experience Northern Lights in light tunnels, Polar North and Candy Cane Lane.
Admission: Limited time offer! First 1,000 tickets sold save $5 off the online price! Buy online and save – Online: $12-$25. At the Gate: $15-$30. Concert tickets range from $39.00 – $69.00 and do not include admission. Buy tickets now.
Hours: The Winter Fair 4 pm-10 pm, December 8-9, 14-23, 2023.
Location: Hastings Park, 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver.
Phone: 604-253–2311
Email: info@pne.ca
Website: https://www.pne.ca/winter/
6. Vancouver Christmas Market – November 16 – December 24, 2023
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.
Lantern Parade – November 29,2023 at 5 pm
New this year, is the Lantern Parade the around the Vancouver Convention Center. The parade celebrates St. Martin, a German tradition carried out since the 19th century. Registration is a must. Children 0-17 years of age will receive free admission to the market and apple cider. Participants can purchase a lantern at the market for $5.
Christmas Market Tickets: Book tickets in advance. Watch for the pre-season launch sale.
Hours: November 16-30: Monday to Thursday: 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Sunday: 11:00 am to 9:30 pm. December 1-23: Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm., Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 am to 9:30 pm. December 24: Sunday: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Location: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver.
Vancouver Christmas Market is one of the best things to do in Vancouver in November. Photo: Desiree Carr©
7. Tinseltown – Christmas Pop Up Bar – for adults only, November 22 – December 31, 2023
Activities: Tinseltown is decorated in everything Christmas to get into the full festive spirit. There will be everything Christmas: Christmas music, Christmas drinks and Christmas food. This year, some dates will have family friendly sessions available that will be mocktails and alcohol free,
Tickets: Book tickets here.
Hours: Various time slots
Location: 4875 Victoria Drive, Vancouver.
8. Winterlust at the H Tasting Lounge – Now until December 31, 2023
Activities: Winterlust is an elevated outdoor domed dining experience at the Westin Bayshore Inn’s Coal Harbour patio. Enjoy festive cocktails and food in a magical heated snow globe. Each dome seats a maximum of six people.
Hours: Various seating times from 11:30 am – 12 am. Winterlust at the H Tasting Lounge books up fast. We were lucky and managed to secure a reservation on the same day due to a cancellation.
Location: 1601 Bayshore Drive, Vancouver.
Reservations are a must.
Winterlust at the H Tasting Lounge is an elevated dining experience in Vancouver. We went for a special birthday celebration. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
9. Winter Solstice Light Festival – December 21, 2023
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
10. East Van Panto: Beauty and the Beast – November 22, 2023 – January 07, 2024
East Van Panto has become a holiday favourite. Belle takes the audience on a hilarious adventure through East Van neighbourhoods. Bell meets the Beast in an enchanted specialty grocery store where she is imprisoned.
The performances will be at the York Theatre and offered online. Buy tickets here.
11. Bright Nights Stanley Park – November 30 – January 1, 2024
Activities: There will be an antique fire truck, giant red reindeer, Santa’s Workshop, entertainment and a sparkling tunnel of lights in the plaza.
Food vendors will offer a great selection of comfort food like churros, pretzels, popcorn and hot chocolate.
Admission is by donation. All proceeds benefit the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
Tickets: There are capacity restrictions. Advance online ticket sales only. Only ticket holders will be allowed at the attraction. Arrive 30 minutes in advance at the entrance. Latecomers will not be allowed.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Check for times, hours and ticketing for Bright Nights. This event is closed on December 25.
Location: Use the West Georgia Street park entrance and go to Pipeline Road in Stanley Park. Parking is free after 3pm in the main lot across the street.
12. Holiday Splash at The Vancouver Aquarium – November 12 – January 2, 2024
Activities: The Holiday Splash at the Vancouver Aquarium includes twice-daily dives by Scuba Claus until December 24 and the holiday favourite, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ 4D Experience® Holiday treats are available for purchase.
Admission: Book your tickets in advance.
Location: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver
13. Granville Island Festive Christmas and Holiday Lights
Activities: Wander through the fresh air of almost 40 acres of Granville Island to see the light displays. Takeout hot drinks and treats available and other food options with patios.
Admission: There is no admission.
Hours: Starts November 12, 2023, from sunset to 10 pm. daily.
Closed: All businesses including Granville Island Market are closed on December 25 and 26, 2022, but lights will be on.
Location: 1661 Duranleau St.
14. Christmas at Canada Place – December 1 – January 2, 2024
Activities: Stroll the outdoor promenade at Canada Palce to see the beautiful historic Woodward’s Windows and Avenue of Christmas Trees, the holiday-themed Sails of Light display, Canada’s North light display, “Chrismoose,” the 15-foot tall moose light sculpture and more!
Admission: Free
Hours: Daily from 8 am-11 pm.
Location: Canadian Trail (west promenade) 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
Website: Canada Place
15. Hyatt Gingerbread Lane – December 1-29, 2023
This wonderful holiday tradition is back to celebrate its 31st year! Come down to the Hyatt Regency in downtown Vancouver and see the wonderful gingerbread creations. The aroma of gingerbread fills the lobby of the hotel. You won’t be disappointed and its a free event.
Patrick Gosselin, General Manager, states “It is an honour for us to host to the 31st Gingerbread Lane and support the Make-A-Wish Foundation. We firmly believe in the power of making dreams come true for children who need it the most with local community members”
A previous display at Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver
A previous display at Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver16. Soar Like Santa at Fly Over Canada – November 16 – December 31, 2023
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.
Hours: November 16 – December 31, 2023.
Location: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
17. Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum – November 25 – January 3, 2024
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. See a map of the village.
Admission: Gate admission is free. Carousel rides are $2.52. Check the official website for hours of operation.
Location: 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby just off Canada Way.
Bright in Burnaby
The official launch of Heritage Christmas takes place December 2 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.
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18. Squamish at Dusk – November 23 – December 10, 2023
19. Winter in the Village in Steveston – December 1-31, 2023
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. Elf: The Musical – November 2 – December 31, 2023
Follow this classic Christmas story of Buddy the Elf as he travels from New York City to the North Pole and his adventures to win his new found family over.
Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage
21. Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge – November 17, 2023 – January 21, 2024
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.
Hours: 11 am – 9 pm daily November 17, 2023 – January 21, 2024. Closed on Christmas Day.
Location: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver. Free shuttle is available from Canada Place.
22. Harrison Lights on the Lake – November 18, 2023 – January 7, 2024
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.
November 18, 2023 – until January 7, 2024.
Website: Harrison Lights on the Lake
23. Glow Langley at Milner Village Garden Centre Christmas Lights 2023 – November 23 – December 30, 2023
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, forest of dancing magical trees and a dazzling display of almost one million lights. Visit the animated musical tunnel, Elf Castle, swings, hop scotch, playpark, bouncy farm and take a ride on the Glow Comotive. Meet special character 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 23-December 30, 2023.
Location: Milner Village Garden Centre, 6690 216th Street, Langley.
24. PNE Winter Lights Fair and Holiday Market- December 8-9, 14-23, 2023
In our opinion, this event ranks as one of the best light shows on the Lower Mainland.
New this year is the PNE Express Train 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.
The walk-through light display takes you through enchanted lands to see winter creatures, experience Northern Lights in light tunnels, Polar North and Candy Cane Lane.
Admission: Limited time offer! First 1,000 tickets sold save $5 off the online price! Buy online and save – Online: $12-$25. At the Gate: $15-$30. Concert tickets range from $39.00 – $69.00 and do not include admission. Buy tickets now.
Hours: The Winter Fair 4 pm-10 pm, December 8-9, 14-23, 2023.
Location: Hastings Park, 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver.
Phone: 604-253–2311
Email: info@pne.ca
Website: https://www.pne.ca/winter/
One of the best Vancouver holiday lights display is at the PNE Winter Lights Fair. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
25. The Gingerbread Men – A holiday Cabaret – December 1 – 17, 2023
A classic cabaret, The Gingerbread Men present 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 2-31, 2023
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.
Admission: $11.50 per person. Under 2 is free. Book online to avoid waits.
Hours: December 2-31, 2023
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
Website: Bear Creek Christmas Train
27. Lights at Lafarge – November 26 – January 31, 2023
Activities: This year the winter Lights at Lafarge has been modified to display lights on two walking loops to help disperse crowding. The new loop will go through Inspiration Garden and the new concession plaza in Town Centre Park.
Admission: Free. Parking is limited. Consider walking or taking the SkyTrain to Lafarge Lake – Douglas station.
Hours: November 26 – January 31, 2023 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
Email: FestivalsandEvents@coquitlam.ca
Website: Lights at Lafarge
28. North Pole Express at the Railway Museum of British Columbia 2023
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 minirail train, and explore the holiday model train displays and more.
Admission: Tickets are sold in pairs only. First Class – $105, Coach – $82, Night Time Ride (6PM) – $132. Infants on lap free. Free parking included with ticket.
Tickets: Available online here.
Hours: November 25-26, December 2-3 and December 9-10, 16-17, 2023. Tickets are currently sold out for all December date. Location: 39645 Government Road, Squamish
Website: The North Pole Express
29. Martini Town Merry and Bright – December 1 – January 1, 2024
For the first time 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) and January 1st (New Year’s Day).
29A. Liven Up Coal Harbour – December 1-31, 2023
A free new Christmas event this year is a month-long family-friendly activation that will see lighting installations, artists, musicians, and storytellers animate this spectacular walk from Canada Place to Cardero Park.
Larger lighting installations will be located at key points along the route with suspended lighting to find your way. Performance areas will be activated on Friday and Saturday evenings in December from 5-10 p.m. with musicians, artists, fire performers, and storytellers.
The Harbour Green Park Stage will be the hub of the site with a warm and cozy covered area featuring a live music stage and bar offering delectable alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot drinks.
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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
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, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National PD Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW & NATJA.
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