There so many free things to do in Vancouver in December 2025 including holiday concerts, Craft Fairs, Christmas lights and seasonal attractions.

 

Free Activities in December 2025

For a list of some of the best things to do in December, including activities that aren’t free, check out Vancouver’s December Events Calendar. For a list of the best FREE (or almost free) special events this month, see below.

In addition to what we list below, there are also Parks & Places in Nature to explore, plus attractions with free admission, like the Museum of Surrey, Granville Island, and other places of interest. You’ll find a list of other affordable events and activities in our article about Vancouver on a Budget.

 

 

Wednesday, December 17th (2025)

• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.

Christmas Attractions & Events

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Art Exhibitions at Place des Arts – the Positively Petite Miniature Exhibition is at the art centre in Coquitlam, as are exhibitions by Alex Lavrov and Mitchell Seeyu.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Thursday, December 18th (2025)

• Beaty Nocturnal – admission is by donation at UBC’s Beaty Biodiversity Museum today between 5:00 and 8:30 pm.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.

Christmas Attractions & Events

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Art Exhibitions at Place des Arts – the Positively Petite Miniature Exhibition is at the art centre in Coquitlam, as are exhibitions by Alex Lavrov and Mitchell Seeyu.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Friday, December 19th (2025)

• Last day of school before Christmas holidays for most Lower Mainland schools.

Holiday Markets & Christmas Stores

• Made in the 604 Holiday Market – a free indoor artisan market happens at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – an artisan market with live entertainment at UBC.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Christmas Events & Activities

• CPKC Holiday Train – the Christmas train is making its way across Canada with stops and live music this evening in Agassiz, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. Admission is by donation of food or money to the local food bank.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Santa’s Christmas Ships – the annual tradition of festive ships parading on Vancouver waters.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.

Other Events & Activities

• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Art Exhibitions at Place des Arts – the Positively Petite Miniature Exhibition is at the art centre in Coquitlam, as are exhibitions by Alex Lavrov and Mitchell Seeyu.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Saturday, December 20th (2025)

Holiday Markets & Christmas Stores

• Coquitlam Christmas Night Market – an artisan market at the Evergreen Cultural Centre beside Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam. Admission is just $2, but children are free. Lights at Lafarge is just outside and also free for everyone.
• CPKC Holiday Train – the Christmas train is making its way across Canada with stops and live music this evening in Port Moody and Port Coquitlam. Admission is by donation of food or money to the local food bank.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – an artisan market with live entertainment at UBC.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Other Christmas Events & Activities

• Christmas Wassail & Bonfire Night – a special event with live entertainment, a community bonfire and a visit from Santa as part of the Dundarave Festival of Lights in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• Santa’s Christmas Ships – the annual tradition of festive ships parading on Vancouver waters can be seen at Bedwell Bay and Farrer Cove today.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Events & Activities

• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Art Exhibitions at Place des Arts – the Positively Petite Miniature Exhibition is at the art centre in Coquitlam, as are exhibitions by Alex Lavrov and Mitchell Seeyu.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Sunday, December 21st (2025)

Holiday Markets & Christmas Stores

• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – the artisan market with live entertainment at UBC concludes today.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Other Christmas Events & Activities

• Winter Solstice Lantern Festival – entertainment and other activities in Yaletown, Granville Island and Strathcona.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Events & Activities

• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Monday, December 22nd (2025)

• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.

Christmas-Themed Events & Attractions

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Made in the 604 Market – a free indoor artisan market happens at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.

 

Tuesday, December 23rd (2025)

• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.

Holiday Markets & Christmas Stores

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.
• Made in the 604 Market – a free indoor artisan market happens at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver.

Other Christmas-Themed Events & Attractions

• Destination Downtown – light installations, live entertainment, and free Ferris wheel rides in Vancouver.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Mackin House, and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Wednesday, December 24th (2025)

• Christmas Eve
• Shipyards Christmas Market – today is the last day for the 100+ market vendors at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens. (TBC)
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Thursday, December 25th (2025)

• Christmas Day (Stat Holiday)
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens. (TBC)
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Friday, December 26th (2025)

• Boxing Day – a crazy time for shopping.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens. (TBC)
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Saturday, December 27th (2025)

• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Sunday, December 28th (2025)

• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Gingerbread Lane – the last day to see gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Monday, December 29th (2025)

• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.

 

Tuesday, December 30th (2025)

• Destination Downtown – light installations and free Ferris wheel rides in Vancouver.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which is in effect until January 15th.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Mackin House, and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Wednesday, December 31st (2025)

• New Year’s Eve – festivities and fireworks normally take place at various venues.
  • Public transit is likely free this evening (although exact details are to be confirmed.)
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

Other December Events

For a list of other things to do this month (including activities that aren’t free), see the December Events Calendar.

Click Best Christmas Activities for other best seasonal things to do in December.

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

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