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Parto Balazadeh Minouei

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year: A Guide to Vancouver’s Holiday Attractions

As we approach winter break and the holiday season, holiday attractions are back on and Vancouver certainly knows how to celebrate the holiday season! From elaborate light displays to markets, there is a plethora of both indoor and outdoor events for everyone. This article has rounded up some of these events under a few categories, depending on your mood and interest.


Visual attractions


Festival of Lights

The Festival of Lights is back for 2022! This festival transforms one of Vancouver’s botanical gardens, VanDusen, into a winter wonderland. Take a stroll through the garden and its countless twinkling illuminations between November 25 and January 2. Be sure to snag your admission tickets as early as possible, and to wrap up in your warmest clothes as you explore the shimmering holiday decorations in the garden alongside festive music and treats.


Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden / Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation on Twitter

Bright Nights

Bright Nights in Stanley Park will be returning to Vancouver this year, marking its 25th season. While the beloved family train ride will not be running, there will still be sparkling festive displays around the park from December 1 to January 1. Enjoy the live entertainment as you discover the amazing decorations like the giant reindeer, antique fire truck and walk-through light tunnel. Food and beverage trucks will be on site serving pretzels, hot chocolate and more. Don’t miss out on this one!

Bright Nights at Stanley Park / Agassiz-Harrison Observer news article

Activities


Robson Square Ice Rink

This holiday season at Robson Square, you may just find yourself drawn to the ice skating rink. This is a perfect activity to do with family or friends this winter. The use of the rink is free (pro-tip: arrive off peak to avoid the crowds), and you can bring your own skates or rent them. There will also be a hot chocolate stand to keep you warm and cozy, along with live entertainment on some nights if you are lucky! If you enjoy ice skating and giving into the holiday spirit, this activity might be the one for you, and it runs even after winter break is over, from December 2 to February 28.

Robson Square Ice Rink / Shutterstock

Christmas FlyOver Canada

Experience a magical ride as you buckle your seatbelts and fly over beautiful Canadian scenery, but with a holiday twist. This popular attraction will make you feel as if you’re flying right above the windy mountain tops as you catch the mist from the Niagara Falls. The Christmas special takes you around as you help two elves, Pinecone and Chestnut, on a quest. This multidimensional virtual wonderland will take you through a spectacular aerial journey from the east coast of Canada to the west coast, with a special visit to the North Pole in the end. The attraction, a first of its kind in Canada, is a fully immersive experience including wind, mist, and even scents! The Christmas version of FlyOver Canada includes a special trip to the North Pole workshop. This immersive experience, running December 8 to January 3, is definitely one for your winter bucket list!


Soar with Santa / FlyOver Canada

The place you can find it all


Vancouver Christmas Market

Paired with live music and festive lights, the Vancouver Christmas Market is a seasonal must-attend for many. With friendly artisan vendors and decorations all around, the market highlights the fun in outdoor European-style markets with gourmet food, authentic German drinks, and aromatic stands of decadent sweets. On a crisp winter evening, the market is great for holiday window shopping, eating and experiencing the full glowing effect including a Christmas tree with 36000 lights and a carousel to ride. There are also some new features this year, so be on the lookout for those until the end of the market on Christmas Eve.

Vancouver Christmas Market / Mercedes-Benz Vancouver

Whether it is skiing or snowboarding on the breathtaking mountains of Vancouver or potentially visiting some of these holiday-themed destinations, a much-needed break is due for us all. Happy Holidays!



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