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.

 

 

Monday, December 1st (2025)

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are 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 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)
• 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.
• 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.
• Lights by the Lake – Christmas light displays at Harrison Hot Springs.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • 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.

 

 

Tuesday, December 2nd (2025)

• Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
• 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.

Free Christmas Events and Attractions

• 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.
• 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.
• 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)
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• 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.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • 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.
  • 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 3rd (2025)

• Project EveryBODY – a free market featuring more than 40 vendors from the disability community at the Roundhouse Exhibition Hall in Yaletown.
• 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.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• 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)
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• 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.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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 4th (2025)

• 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.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• 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)
• 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.
• 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 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 Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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.)

 

---

FREE HOLIDAY BONFIRE EVENT IN DEEP COVE

To kick off the holiday season, the District of North Vancouver hosts a Community Bonfire Event at Panorama Park in Deep Cove. It’s a free event on December 6th with live music, crafts, hot chocolate and other activities. For full details, see the nvrc.ca website.

---

 

 

Friday, December 5th (2025)

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – a free artisan market with live music and holiday lights at Norman MacKenzie Square at UBC.
• Bill Reid Gallery – free admission to the First Nations art gallery between 2:00 and 5:00 pm (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
• Vancouver Art Gallery – admission from 4:00 to 8:00 pm is free (as it’s the first Friday of the month).
• Made in the 604 Market – a free indoor artisan market happens at the Pipe Shop 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.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.

Free Christmas Attractions & Events

• Santa’s Christmas Ships – the annual tradition of festive ships parading on Vancouver waters can be seen at Cates Park and Belcarra Bay today.
• 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.
• The Singing Christmas Tree – an impressive concert at Broadway Church in 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.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• 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)
• 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.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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 as well as lots of decorated Christmas trees.
  • 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 6th (2025)

• Bonfire at Deep Cove – a free event with a bonfire, live music and family-friendly activities at Panorama Park in Deep Cove on the North Shore.
• Parade of Lights – a parade and other activities to celebrate the Christmas season in downtown Port Coquitlam.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown. Today also features the Holiday Hive Market, a Dance Party and a Holiday Toy Drive.
• Festive Night at Harrison Lake – family-friendly activities happen at Lights by the Lake this evening from 5:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Toys Through the Decades – access to Britannia Mine’s lower site is free today. There are toy displays and festive decorations to explore. Santa is also on site for photos by donation.
• Mission Candlelight Parade – a fun Christmas parade that takes place in the evening in downtown Mission.
• Santa’s Christmas Ships – the annual tradition of festive ships parading on Vancouver waters. Today is the Christmas Ships Party with live music and a bonfire in Deep Cove.

 

 

Markets & Christmas Stores

• Holiday Hive Market – an artisan market outside the Metropolis at Metrotown Mall in Burnaby.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – a free artisan market with live music and holiday lights at Norman MacKenzie Square at UBC.
• Made in the 604 Markets – free indoor artisan market happen at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver and at Heritage Hall in Vancouver.
• Kensington Winter Holiday Craft Fair – a Christmas artisan market at the Kensington Community Centre in Vancouver from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Admission is free.
• Riley Park Winter Farmers Market – in the parking lot at Nat Bailey Stadium.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Other Events

• Maple Ridge Christmas Festival – a community festival and Santa Claus parade in downtown Maple Ridge.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – in addition to decorated trees at the beach in West Vancouver, today is the Nativity and Paddle Songs event with Indigenous storytelling and live entertainment.
• The Singing Christmas Tree – a Christmas concert at Broadway Church in 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. Today also features special family-friendly activities.
• 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)
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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 7th (2025)

• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating 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-Themed Events & Attractions

• Toys Through the Decades – access to Britannia Mine’s lower site is free today. There are toy displays and festive decorations to explore. Santa is also on site for photos by donation.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown. Today also features the Holiday Hive Market.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas trees and holiday lights at the beach in West Vancouver.
• The Singing Christmas Tree – an impressive concert at Broadway Church in Vancouver.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Lights by the Lake – 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)
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.
• Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.

Christmas and Other Sunday Markets & Stores

• Holiday Hive Market – an artisan market outside the Metropolis at Metrotown Mall in Burnaby.
• Winter Market at Vanier Park – a free event with live entertainment and artisan vendors. Admission today is pay-what-you-can at the Vancouver Maritime Museum, Museum of Vancouver and H.R. MacMillan Space Centre.
• Made in the 604 Markets – free indoor artisan market happen at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver and at Heritage Hall in Vancouver.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – a free artisan market with live music and holiday lights at Norman MacKenzie Square at UBC.
• Port Moody Winter Farmers Market – a winter market at the Port Moody Rec Centre from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Admission is $2, but free for children ages 12 and under.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – a free event with market vendors and live music at the Shipyards in North Vancouver.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
  • 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.
  • 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 8th (2025)

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are 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.
• 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.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • 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.

 

 

Tuesday, December 9th (2025)

• Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
• 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.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.
• 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.
• 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.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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 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 10th (2025)

• 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.
• 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.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• 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.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• 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.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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 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 11th (2025)

• Light Up the Harbour – free family-friendly activities hosted by the Vancouver Maritime Museum at Heritage Harbour. (TBC)
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• 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.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.
• 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.
• Robson Square Ice Skating – free skating in the square underground behind the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• 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.
• 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 – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
  • 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 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, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Friday, December 12th (2025)

• Winter Festival at UBC – a community festival at Wesbrook Village on the main campus of the University of British Columbia.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for everyone thanks to the Canada Strong Pass which takes effect today and runs until January 15th.

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.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Made in the 604 Holiday Market – a free indoor artisan market happens at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – a free artisan market with live music and holiday lights at Norman MacKenzie Square at UBC. There is also the Winter Festival at UBC at the same time.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Other Christmas Events & Activities

• The Singing Christmas Tree – an impressive concert at Broadway Church in Vancouver.
• 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.
• Santa’s Christmas Ships – the annual tradition of festive ships parading on Vancouver waters can be seen at Woodlands and Brighton Beach today.
• 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.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – a free event with market vendors and live entertainment at the Shipyards in North Vancouver.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Destination Downtown – light installations and live entertainment in downtown Vancouver.
• 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 Events & Activities

• 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.

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%.
  • 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 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 13th (2025)

• Winter Festival at UBC – a community festival at Wesbrook Village on the main campus of the University of British Columbia.

Christmas Events in the City of Vancouver

• The Singing Christmas Tree – an impressive concert at Broadway Church in 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.
• Gingerbread Lane – gingerbread house displays at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Vancouver.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – a free artisan market with live music and holiday lights at Norman MacKenzie Square at UBC. There is also the Winter Festival at UBC at the same time.

Christmas Events Elsewhere in Metro Vancouver

• 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.
• New West Holiday Market – an artisan market featuring over 90 vendors and food trucks in front of New Westminster’s City Hall.
• New West Holiday Market – an artisan market featuring over 90 vendors and food trucks in front of New Westminster’s City Hall.
• Toys Through the Decades – access to Britannia Mine’s lower site is free today. There are toy displays and festive decorations to explore. Santa is also on site for photos by donation.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Santa’s Christmas Ships – the annual tradition of festive ships parading on Vancouver waters can be seen at Belcarra and Dollarton today.
• WinterFest at MOS – decorated Christmas trees and other things to see and do at the Museum of Surrey.
• Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
• Dundarave Festival of Lights – in addition to decorated trees at the beach in West Vancouver, today there is the World Christmas event with live entertainment.
• Holiday Hi-Light Festival – Christmas lights and decorations at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford Gardens.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 60 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• 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.
• Lights at Lafarge – free Christmas light displays around Lafarge Lake at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park.

Christmas Events in the Fraser Valley

• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Aldergrove Christmas Light Up Parade – a Santa Claus Parade at night in Langley.
• Lights by the Lake – beautiful Christmas light displays with a Sasquatch theme in the evening at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Other Events & Activities

• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
• 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.

Saturday Markets

• New West Holiday Market – an artisan market featuring over 90 vendors and food trucks in front of New Westminster’s City Hall.
• Shipyards Artisan Market – a Christmas-themed market at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver’s Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale District.
• Riley Park Winter Farmers Market – in the parking lot at Nat Bailey Stadium at 4601 Ontario Street from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm.
• Coquitlam Christmas Night Market – at the Evergreen Cultural Centre in Coquitlam. Admission costs a twoonie, but it’s free for children ages 17 and under.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – an artisan market with live entertainment at UBC.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – a free event with market vendors and live entertainment at the Shipyards 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.
  • 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 14th (2025)

• Winter Festival at UBC – a community festival at Wesbrook Village on the main campus of the University of British Columbia.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are at the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Skating at the Shipyards – free ice skating on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Museum of Surrey – the museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, featured, interactive exhibit about hockey.
• 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.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.

Sunday Markets & Christmas Stores

• New West Holiday Market – an artisan market featuring over 90 vendors and food trucks in front of New Westminster’s City Hall.
• Shipyards Artisan Market – a Christmas-themed market at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver’s Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale District.
• Port Moody Winter Farmers Market – a winter market at the Port Moody Rec Centre.
• Shipyards Christmas Market – a free event with market vendors and live entertainment at the Shipyards in North Vancouver.
• Wesbrook Village Holiday Market – a free artisan market with live music and holiday lights at Norman MacKenzie Square at UBC. There is also the Winter Festival at UBC at the same time.
• Glenda’s Christmas Cottage – a boutique Christmas store in Abbotsford that’s fun to explore.

Christmas & Winter Holiday-Themed Events

• The Singing Christmas Tree – an impressive concert at Broadway Church in Vancouver.
• Toys Through the Decades – access to Britannia Mine’s lower site is free today. There are toy displays and festive decorations to explore. Santa is also on site for photos by donation.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Granville Island – the world-famous shopping, restaurant and entertainment district has Christmas lights at night.

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.
  • 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 15th (2025)

• Shipyards Christmas Market – over 100 market vendors are 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
  • 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.

 

 

Tuesday, December 16th (2025)

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Holiday Lights in Williams Park – a drive-through event in Langley with Christmas lights and displays.
• Christmas at the Met – holiday decorations, live entertainment and opportunities to see Santa Claus at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown.
• 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.

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, Mackin House, and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

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

• CPKC Holiday Train in PoCo – family-friendly activities at the train station and community centre in Port Coquitlam. There is a mini concert with the Bare Naked Ladies as well as the movie How The Grinch Stole Christmas.
• 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.
  • Jingle Bells Night – also at Lights at Lafarge tonight, there are free, family-friendly activities between 5:30 and 8:00 pm.
• 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

• 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
• 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.
• Festive Night at Harrison Lake – family-friendly activities happen at Lights by the Lake this evening from 5:00 until 7:00 pm.
• 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.