Home Vancouver Monthly Calendar Vancouver in DECEMBER 2018

Vancouver in DECEMBER 2018

December in Vancouver

In Vancouver’s 2018 December calendar you’ll find dates and events in the Lower Mainland for Christmas attractions, concerts and other winter events.

JANUARY – FEBRUARY – MARCH – APRIL

MAY – JUNE – JULY – AUGUST – SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER – NOVEMBER – DECEMBER

December Events Calendar

  • Dec. 21 – Last day of school before Christmas holidays
  • Dec. 25 – Christmas Day (Stat Holiday)
  • Dec. 26 – Boxing Day (a day off for most, and the start of the Boxing Day sales at stores throughout the region)
  • Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve

Vancouver December Events

Below is what’s happening on the different days of the month in December. Note: schedules are subject to change – check official websites for exact details.

To jump to a specific week, click on any of the following:

December 3-9 | December 10-16 | December 17-23 | December 24-31

Saturday, December 1, 2018

  • Special Christmas Events
    • Shipyards Christmas Festival – free Christmas celebrations at the Shipyards at the bottom of Lonsdale Avenue in North Vancouver. Activities include an artisan market in the Pipe Shop, live entertainment and the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby with extra activities from 4 to 9 pm including the official tree-lighting ceremony and refreshments at 6 pm.
    • Wesbrook Village Winter Festival – a 2-day event at UBC’s Wesbrook Village featuring Christmas tree displays, carolers, Santa and the Etsy Vancouver Winter Market.
    • Squamish Santa Claus Parade – starting at 4 pm in downtown Squamish.
    • Holiday Cheer at the Pier – Santa, snacks and carol singing in Port Moody at Rocky Point Park from 6 until 8 pm.
    • Maple Ridge Christmas Festival – Christmas activities in Memorial Peace Park with a parade in the evening.
    • Dundarave Christmas Fair – a small community event with Christmas tree decorating and live entertainment in West Vancouver as part of the Dundarave Festival of Lights.
    • Santa Shuffle – a 5K Fun Run and 1K Elf Walk at Stanley Park benefiting the Salvation Army.
  • Christmas Activities
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and evening festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 until 9 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Loft Country Christmas – an Old West-themed Christmas attraction at a farm in Langley.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Polar Express – special Christmas activities at the West Coast Railway Museum. Spaces are limited so book your tickets well in advance.
    • Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas light displays between 5:30 and 9 pm in the gardens at Park and Tilford mall in North Vancouver (by donation).
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Christmas Craft Fairs
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Sounds of Christmas – a concert with the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir at White Rock Baptist Church at 1657 140th Street in White Rock. Tonight’s show includes a performance by the North Surrey Secondary School Choir. Tickets cost $15 to $30.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Blind Date – an Arts Club Theatre romantic comedy at the Goldcorp Stage at 162 West 1st Avenue.
    • Beauty and the Beast – Walt Disney’s classic tale is performed by the Arts Club Theatre Company at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.
    • Family Favourites Movies – a family-friendly film is showing for just $2.99 at select Cineplex theatres in Vancouver, Abbotsford, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Langley, Richmond and Surrey at 11 o’clock.
  • Sporting Events
  • Farmers Markets

Best Christmas Activities

Sunday, December 2, 2018

  • Vancouver Santa Claus Parade – along Georgia Street and then down Howe Street. Pre-parade activities for families take place in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery from 10 am until parade time.
  • Surrey Santa Parade – a Santa Claus parade at the Cloverdale Town Centre in Surrey.
  • Shipyards Christmas Festival – North Vancouver’s main Christmas celebrations take place at the Shipyards on December 1st, but market activities continue for a second day today.
  • Wesbrook Village Winter Festival – a 2-day event at UBC’s Wesbrook Village featuring Christmas tree displays, carolers, Santa and the Etsy Vancouver Winter Market.
  • Christmas in Steveston Village – activities include the Cannery Farmers’ Market inside the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, a display of classic cars in town, the arrival of Santa Claus by boat at the Steveston Public Wharf, and visits with the man in red at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery.
  • Big Rigs for Kids Lighted Truck Parade – family-friendly activities and a parade of trucks with Christmas lights in downtown Surrey from 3:30 until 8 pm.
  • Vancouver Giants Hockey – against Tri-City at the Langley Events Centre.
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Sounds of Christmas – a concert with the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir at Massey Theatre at 735 8th Avenue in New Westminster. Tickets cost $29 to $40.
    • Christmas with the Bach Choir – at Vancouver’s Orpheum Theatre at 601 Smithe Street in Vancouver at 2 pm.
    • Jazz Vespers – live Jazz at Surrey’s Northwood United Church at 8855 156th Street between 4 and 5 pm and at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church at 1022 Nelson Street. Admission is by donation.
  • Farmers Markets
  • Cloverdale Flea Market – a massive market at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey from 6 am until 3 pm.
  • Abbotsford Flea Market – a giant flea market at Abbotsford Exhibition Park from 6 am to 4 pm.
  • Other Christmas Activities
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and evening festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 until 9 pm.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Polar Express – special Christmas activities at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park in Squamish. Spaces are limited so book your tickets well in advance.
    • Loft Country Christmas – an Old West-themed Christmas attraction at a farm in Langley.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby from 1 to 9 pm (free).
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village. (Note: Today is also market day, so admission is free!)
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Christmas Craft Fairs

 

Week of December 3rd to 9th

December 3-9 | December 10-16 | December 17-23 | December 24-31

 

Monday, December 3, 2018

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

  • Theatre
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas pageant. (Tonight is preview night, so tickets are half price.)
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

Vancouver Christmas Concerts

Thursday, December 6, 2018

  • Music & Theatre
    • Yule Duel: Caroling for a Cause – over a dozen choirs singing from the sidewalks of Water Street in Gastown. By donation. Takes place today only from 6 to 9 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.
  • Vancouver Canucks Hockey – professional ice hockey against the Nashville Predators at Rogers Arena.

Top Vancouver December Things to Do

Friday, December 7, 2018

  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Singing Christmas Tree – free family-friendly performances featuring a 100+ person choir, orchestra, actors, dancers and acrobats at Broadway Church at 2700 East Broadway.
    • Sounds of Christmas – a concert with the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir at Centennial Theatre at 2300 Lonsdale Avenue in North Vancouver. Tonight’s show includes a performance by the Argyle Secondary School Choir. Tickets cost $15 to $30.
    • Vancouver Chamber Choir – a performance of “Handel’s Messiah” with the Vancouver Chamber Choir, Pacifica Singers and Vancouver Chamber Orchestra at the Orpheum Theatre.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Disney’s Beauty & the Beast – a musical play by the Children’s Theatre of Richmond Association at the Norman Rothstein Theatre at 950 West 41st Avenue.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
  • Christmas Markets
    • All About Christmas Gifts Expo – a giant holiday market featuring over 160 vendors at Heritage Park in Chilliwack. Open from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. Cost is $4 for folk ages 11 and older.
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

Saturday, December 8, 2018

  • Christmas Lights Up Parade – starting at 6 pm in Aldergrove (an annual event on the second Saturday in December).
  • Christmas Magic – a special one-day event at the Britannia Mine Museum featuring a train ride, Santa Claus and other family-friendly activities.
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Singing Christmas Tree – free family-friendly performances featuring a 100+ person choir, orchestra, actors, dancers and acrobats at Broadway Church at 2700 East Broadway at 3 and 7 pm.
    • Handel’s Messiah – performed by the Vancouver Bach Choir at Surrey’s Bell Centre at 7:30 pm.
    • Sounds of Christmas – a concert with the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir at Shaughnessy Heights United Church at 1550 West 33rd Avenue in Vancouver. Tonight’s show includes a performance by the Magee Secondary School Choir. Tickets cost $15 to $30.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 2:00 and 7:30 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Disney’s Beauty & the Beast – a musical play by the Children’s Theatre of Richmond Association at the Norman Rothstein Theatre at 950 West 41st Avenue.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
    • Family Favourites Movies – a family-friendly film is showing for just $2.99 at select Cineplex theatres in Vancouver, Abbotsford, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Langley, Richmond and Surrey at 11 o’clock.
  • Vancouver Giants Hockey – against Victoria at the Langley Events Centre.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Dundarave Festival of Lights – free live music from noon until dusk in West Vancouver. Today is the festival’s Dundarave Nativity Paddle Songs event with live entertainment between around noon and 4 pm.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Polar Express – special Christmas activities at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park in Squamish. Spaces are limited so book your tickets well in advance.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby (free).
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Christmas Fairs & Farmers Markets
    • Got Craft – at the Maritime Labour Centre at 1880 Triumph Street in Vancouver. Admission is $5.
    • All About Christmas Gifts Expo – a giant holiday market featuring over 160 vendors at Heritage Park in Chilliwack. Admission is $4 and hours of operation are from 10 am until 6 pm.
    • Fall For Local Holiday Market – an artisan market featuring numerous local vendors at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver from 11 am to 5 pm. Admission at the door is $5.
    • Riley Park Winter Farmers Market – between 10 am and 2 pm at Vancouver’s Nat Bailey Stadium at 4601 Ontario Street.

Christmas Craft Fairs

Sunday, December 9, 2018

  • Colombian Fiesta de las Velitas – a free event at Burnaby Hall at 7837 Canada Way with live music, kid-friendly activities and food for purchase from 4 until 8 pm.
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Singing Christmas Tree – free family-friendly performances featuring a 100+ person choir, orchestra, actors, dancers and acrobats at Broadway Church at 2700 East Broadway at 3 and 7 pm.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 2 pm.
    • Beauty and the Beast – Walt Disney’s classic tale is performed by the Arts Club Theatre Company at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
    • Jazz Vespers – live Jazz at both Surrey’s Northwood United Church at 8855 156th Street and at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church at 1022 Nelson Street in Vancouver. Admission is by donation.
  • Christmas and Farmers Markets
    • All About Christmas Gifts Expo – a giant holiday market featuring over 160 vendors at Heritage Park in Chilliwack. Admission is $4 and hours of operation are from 10 am until 4 pm.
    • Got Craft – at the Maritime Labour Centre at 1880 Triumph Street in Vancouver. Admission is $5.
    • Fall For Local Holiday Market – an artisan market featuring numerous local vendors at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver from 11 am to 5 pm. Admission at the door is $5.
    • Cannery Farmers Market – a winter market at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery in Steveston Village from 10 am to 3 pm.
    • Hastings Park Farmers Market – from 10 am to 2 pm at Hastings Skatepark by the PNE on Sundays.
  • Cloverdale Flea Market – a massive market at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey from 6 am until 3 pm.
  • Abbotsford Flea Market – a giant flea market at Abbotsford Exhibition Park from 6 am to 4 pm.
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

 

Week of December 10th to 16th

December 3-9 | December 10-16 | December 17-23 | December 24-31

 

Monday, December 10, 2018

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • Cheap Movie Night – at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

Best Christmas Activities

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

  • Make It Craft Show – first day of the craft event with over 170 vendors at the PNE at 2901 East Hastings Street.
  • Music & Theatre
    • Winter Harp Concert – at 7:30 pm at the BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts at Capilano University at 2055 Purcell Way in North Vancouver.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at South Delta Baptist Church.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
    • Jazz Vespers – a Jazz Evensong service at 8 pm at Brentwood Presbyterian Church at 1600 Delta Avenue.
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Thursday, December 13, 2018

  • Make It Craft Show – a craft event with over 170 vendors at the PNE at 2901 East Hastings Street.
  • Music & Theatre
    • Winter Harp Concert – at 7:30 pm at the BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts at Capilano University at 2055 Purcell Way in North Vancouver.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at the Kay Meek Centre in West Vancouver.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
  • Christmas Attractions
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink at the corner of Howe and Robson Street. Also, Karla Sax performs from 6 until 9 pm.

Operation Red Nose

Friday, December 14, 2018

  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Singing Christmas Tree – free family-friendly performances featuring a 100+ person choir, orchestra, actors, dancers and acrobats at Broadway Church at 2700 East Broadway at 7:30 pm.
    • Vancouver Chamber Choir – A Joyful Christmas concert at Vancouver’s Pacific Spirit United Church.
    • Christmas with Chor Leoni – an evening choir concert at Vancouver’s St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church.
    • Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir – Good Tidings! Christmas concert at Vancouver’s Christ Church Cathedral at 690 Burrard Street at 8 pm.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at Centennial Theatre in North Vancouver.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
  • Vancouver Giants Hockey – against Everett at the Langley Events Centre.
  • Christmas Craft Fairs
    • Make It Craft Show – a craft event with over 170 vendors at the PNE at 2901 East Hastings Street.
    • Christmas in the Village – an indoor artisan market with a Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol theme at the Community Hall at 9167 Glover Road in Fort Langley.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and family-friendly activities in the gardens at Park and Tilford mall at 333 Brooksbank Avenue in North Vancouver (by donation).
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery. Also, Barron S performs from 6 until 9 pm.

Saturday, December 15, 2018

  • Carol Ships Shoreline Celebration – a community bonfire, live entertainment, craft-making opportunities and boats with Christmas lights out on the water in North Vancouver’s Deep Cove between 7:30 and 9 pm.
  • Dundarave Festival of Lights – free live music and festive holiday celebrations in West Vancouver from noon until dusk. Today is the festival’s World Christmas event featuring Morris dancers, Scottish country dancing and the band Viper Central Duo.
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Winter Harp Concert – at 7:30 pm at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church at 1022 Nelson in Vancouver.
    • Singing Christmas Tree – free family-friendly performances featuring a 100+ person choir, orchestra, actors, dancers and acrobats at Broadway Church at 2700 East Broadway at 3 and 7 pm.
    • Music at Robson Square – in addition to the free ice skating at Robson Square, there is also live music with Vancouver Tuba Christmas between 2:30 and 4:15 pm and with The Agency from 6 until 9 pm.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at the Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey.
    • Marcus Mosley Chorale – an evening Christmas concert at North Vancouver’s Highlands United Church at 3255 Edgemont Boulevard.
    • Sounds of Christmas – a concert with the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir at the Abbotsford Arts Centre at 2329 Crescent Way in Abbotsford. Tonight’s show includes a performance by the W.J. Mouat Secondary School Choir. Tickets cost $15 to $30.
    • Christmas with Chor Leoni – an afternoon choir concert at West Vancouver United Church.
    • Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir – Good Tidings! Christmas concerts at Vancouver’s Christ Church Cathedral at 690 Burrard Street at 3 and 8 pm.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 2:00 and 7:30 pm.
  • Vancouver Canucks Hockey – professional ice hockey against the Philadelphia Flyers at Rogers Arena.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Loft Country Christmas – an Old West-themed Christmas attraction at a farm in Langley.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Loft Country Christmas – an Old West-themed Christmas attraction at a farm in Langley.
    • Polar Express – special Christmas activities at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park in Squamish. Spaces are limited so book your tickets well in advance.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Christmas and Farmers Markets
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
  • The Big Elf Run – a 5K Elf Run and a 1K Week Elf Fun in Stanley Park benefiting Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver.

Free Events in December

Sunday, December 16, 2018

  • New West Santa Claus Parade – a family-friendly event along New Westminster’s Columbia Street starting at 11 am.
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Winter Harp Concerts – at 3 and 7 pm at the ACT Arts Centre at 11944 Haney Place in Maple Ridge.
    • Singing Christmas Tree – free family-friendly performances featuring a 100+ person choir, orchestra, actors, dancers and acrobats at Broadway Church at 2700 East Broadway at 3 and 7 pm.
    • Music at Robson Square – in addition to the free ice skating at Robson Square, there is also live music with The Showstoppers in the afternoon and with the PK3 Jazz Trio in the evening.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at the Michael J. Fox Theatre in Burnaby.
    • Christmas with Chor Leoni – an evening choir concert at Vancouver’s St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church.
    • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – a classic Christmas comedy at the Havana Theatre about a family of trouble-making kids and the community’s annual Christmas play. Tickets are $24.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 2:00 pm.
    • Jazz Vespers – at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church at 1022 Nelson Street between 4 and 5 pm. Admission is by donation.
  • Professional Sports
  • Christmas Markets and Farmers Markets
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Shipyards Christmas Market – over 40 market vendors at Shipbuilders’ Square in North Vancouver. (2018 details to be confirmed.)
    • Christmas in the Village – an indoor artisan market with a Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol theme at the Community Hall at 9167 Glover Road in Fort Langley. Admission likely by donation (but to be confirmed).
    • Make It Craft Show – a craft event with over 170 vendors at the PNE at 2901 East Hastings Street.
    • Hastings Park Farmers Market – from 10 am to 2 pm at Hastings Skatepark by the PNE on Sundays.
    • Cannery Farmers Market – a winter market at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery in Steveston Village from 10 am to 3 pm.
  • Cloverdale Flea Market – a massive market at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey from 6 am until 3 pm.
  • Abbotsford Flea Market – a giant flea market at Abbotsford Exhibition Park from 6 am to 4 pm.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby from 1 to 9 pm (free).
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – FREE skating on the outdoor ice rink outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

 

Week of December 17th to 23rd

December 3-9 | December 10-16 | December 17-23 | December 24-31

 

Monday, December 17, 2018

  • CP Holiday Train – the Sam Roberts Band and other musicians entertain with stops this evening in Agassiz, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. The events are free but donations for local food banks are greatly appreciated.
  • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
  • Christmas with Chor Leoni – choir concerts at Vancouver’s St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church at 5 and 8 pm.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby from 1 to 9 pm (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery. Also Marie Hui ft. Trilojay entertains with free live music in the evening.

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

  • CP Holiday Train – the Sam Roberts Band and other musicians entertain with stops this evening in Port Moody and Port Coquitlam. The events are free but donations for local food banks are greatly appreciated.
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • Cheap Movie Night – at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.
  • Vancouver Canucks Hockey – professional ice hockey against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Rogers Arena.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby from 1 to 9 pm (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery. Also, the Malcolm Aiken Quartet entertains with free live music in the evening.

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

  • Theatre
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Beauty and the Beast – Walt Disney’s classic tale is performed by the Arts Club Theatre Company at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby from 1 to 9 pm (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery. There is also music to enjoy tonight with DJ-El-Niño.
  • Jazz Vespers – a Jazz Evensong service at 8 pm at Brentwood Presbyterian Church at 1600 Delta Avenue.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

  • Vancouver Canucks Hockey – professional ice hockey against the St. Louis Blues at Rogers Arena.
  • Music & Theatre
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church in Vancouver.
    • Music at Robson Square – in addition to the free ice skating at Robson Square, there is also live Jazz with Caviar & Lace in the evening.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 9:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Loft Country Christmas – an Old West-themed Christmas attraction at a farm in Langley.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Friday, December 21, 2018

  • Last day of school before Christmas holidays for most Lower Mainland schools.
  • Winter Solstice Lantern Festival – an annual community event with dancing, fire performances and outdoor processions at several different venues (including Granville Island and Yaletown).
  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Music at Robson Square – in addition to the free ice skating at Robson Square, there is also live Soul and Gospel music with Warren Dean Flandez in the evening.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church in Vancouver.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 7:30 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
    • The Nutcracker – the Christmas classic with Goh Ballet at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 10:00 pm.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Loft Country Christmas – an Old West-themed Christmas attraction at a farm in Langley.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and family-friendly activities in the gardens at Park and Tilford mall at 333 Brooksbank Avenue in North Vancouver (by donation and to be confirmed).
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • A Fort Langley Christmas – Christmas-themed decorations and activities at the historic fort in the Fraser Valley.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby from 1 to 9 pm (free).
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Saturday, December 22, 2018

  • Shows & Entertainment
    • Sweet Soul Gospel Celebration – a Christmas concert with the VOC Sweet Soul Gospel Choir at St. John’s Shaughnessy Anglican Church at 1490 Nanton Avenue. Doors open at 6:45.
    • The Nutcracker – the Christmas classic with Goh Ballet at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
    • A Traditional Christmas Concert – performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church in Vancouver.
    • Bah! Humbug! – a musical play based on the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” but set in Vancouver’s modern-day Downtown Eastside. Shows at the Goldcorp Centre at 149 West Hastings at 2:00 and 7:30 pm.
    • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
  • Vancouver Canucks Hockey – professional ice hockey against the Winnipeg Jets at Rogers Arena.
  • Riley Park Winter Farmers Market – between 10 am and 2 pm at Vancouver’s Nat Bailey Stadium at 4601 Ontario Street.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Dundarave Festival of Lights – free live music and festive holiday celebrations in West Vancouver from 3 until around 9:30 or so. Today’s event is the annual Christmas Wassail & Bonfire Night featuring the Blackthorn Band and other entertainment.
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 10:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • A Fort Langley Christmas – Christmas-themed decorations and activities at the historic fort in the Fraser Valley.
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink at the corner of Howe and Robson Street. There is also music to enjoy from mid-afternoon until the evening with DJ-El-Niño.

Top December Things to Do

Sunday, December 23, 2018

  • Shows & Entertainment
    • The Nutcracker – the Christmas classic with Goh Ballet at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
    • Music at Robson Square – in addition to the free ice skating at Robson Square, there is also live music with Santa’s Brass in the afternoon and with Phat Santa Swings in the evening.
    • Beauty and the Beast – Walt Disney’s classic tale is performed by the Arts Club Theatre Company at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.
    • Jazz Vespers – at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church at 1022 Nelson Street between 3 and 4 pm. Admission is by donation.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 10:00 pm.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Vancouver Christmas Market – European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Bright Nights – Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

 

Week of December 24th to 31st

December 3-9 | December 10-16 | December 17-23 | December 24-31

 

Monday, December 24, 2018

  • Christmas Eve
  • Steveston Santa Claus Parade – in Steveston Village from 6 until 8 pm.
  • Music at Robson Square – in addition to the free ice skating all day at Robson Square, there is also live music with Tom Arntzen and The Hot Mamas in the evening.
  • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
  • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 10:00 pm.
  • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place. Open today from 10 am until 6 pm.
  • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
  • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
  • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
  • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
  • Vancouver Christmas Market – last day of the season for the European-themed market vendors, carousel and food stalls at Jack Poole Plaza.
  • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
  • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.

Tuesday, December 25, 2018

  • Christmas Day (Stat Holiday)
  • Christmas Attractions

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Thursday, December 27, 2018

  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden from 4:30 to 10:00 pm.
    • Glow Christmas – an indoor attraction in Langley that features a light maze, light tunnel, live entertainment and market.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 until 11 pm around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – Christmas lights and decorations at the outdoor museum in Burnaby (free).
    • A Fort Langley Christmas – Christmas-themed decorations and activities at the historic fort in the Fraser Valley.
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink at the corner of Howe and Robson Street.

Friday, December 28, 2018

Saturday, December 29, 2018

New Year's Fireworks

Sunday, December 30, 2018

  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 pm until 1:00 am around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Aurora Winter Festival – a new North-Pole-themed Christmas attraction at Concord Pacific Place.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley – a Christmas-themed comedy by the Arts Club Theatre and showing at the Granville Island Stage. Tickets start at just $29.
  • Jazz Vespers – at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church at 1022 Nelson Street between 3 and 4 pm. Admission is by donation.

Monday, December 31, 2018

  • New Year’s Eve – festivities and fireworks around Canada Place, at area ski hills and at various night clubs and other party venues.
    • FREE Public Transit – from 5 pm today until 5 am on January 1st! (To be confirmed.)
    • Fireworks in Burrard Inlet – fireworks take off at 9 pm and 12 am from the water near Canada Place and they can be seen from Coal Harbour, parts of Stanley Park and North Vancouver.
    • Canada Place New Year’s Eve Parties – a free street party with live music takes place along Canada Place Way and there are ticketed parties at the Convention Centre.
    • New Year’s Eve at Grouse Mountain – the ski hill’s Peak of Christmas activities tonight include fireworks at 9 pm. Click Vancouver New Year’s Eve Celebrations for details.
    • First Night at Mt. Seymour – evening laser tobogganing, fireworks and live entertainment at the North Vancouver ski hill.
    • St. Paul’s Labyrinth – an evening of free music and walking around the labyrinth at St. Paul’s Anglican Church at 1130 Jervis Street.
    • Click Vancouver New Year’s Eve Parties for details about the above and other great New Year’s Eve events in the Lower Mainland including fireworks and other activities at local ski hills.
  • Christmas Attractions
    • Festival of Lights – amazing Christmas lights and festivities at VanDusen Garden.
    • Christmas at FlyOver Canada – a winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional film experience at Canada Place.
    • Christmas at Canada Place – Christmas lights and seasonal displays.
    • Bright Nights – amazing Christmas lights and miniature train rides at Stanley Park.
    • Lights at Lafarge – winter light displays from 4:30 pm until 1:00 am around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way.
    • Holiday Heights at Bloedel – Christmas lights, glowing plants and family fun at the Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park.
    • Festival of Trees – special Christmas tree decorations at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Heritage Site in Steveston Village.
    • Art of Lights – a Chinese lantern festival at the Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre Park in Surrey.
    • Lights on the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
  • Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating on the outdoor ice rink behind the Vancouver Art Gallery. Also tonight, the band Rumba Calzada entertains with live music in the evening.

 

To return to the top of the page, click December Calendar.

To see what’s happening next month, click January Calendar of Events.

 

2019 December Events

The following events are also taking place in December 2019 (although with some their details are to be confirmed):

  • Songs in the Snow – live music at Steveston Museum’s Town Square Park. By donation. (Possibly on a few Saturdays in December.)
  • Peak of Christmas – Santa, reindeer, sleigh rides, gingerbread house displays, ice skating and other holiday fun up at Grouse Mountain.
  • Scuba Claus and Holiday Traditions – Christmas movies and photo opportunities with Santa at the Vancouver Aquarium.
  • Canyon Lights – Christmas lights and activities at the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
  • Gingerbread Lane – a free display of Christmas gingerbread houses at the Vancouver Hyatt Regency.
  • Jazz Vespers – with the Mighty Fraser Big Band at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church at 885 – 22nd Street in West Vancouver (December 8, 2019).
  • The Big Elf Run – 10K, 5K and 1K Elf Runs in Stanley Park benefiting Canuck Place Children’s Hospice (December 14, 2019).

Top December Activities

Other Information

For more, check out Vancouver’s Best Places for Winter Activities or Vancouver’s Top 10 Things to do at Christmas Time.

To return to the top of the page, click December Calendar.

To see what’s happening next month, click January Calendar of Events.

 

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