Searching for Christmas events in Vancouver but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone. When December arrives, the city fills with holiday markets, bright light displays, winter attractions and festive pop-ups. All in all, choosing what to do can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created this guide, to makes things easier.
We gathered the most memorable holiday experiences across Vancouver so you can skip the endless searching and jump straight into the fun. As you explore, you’ll find classic favourites, new seasonal surprises as well as must-see holiday spots. Altogether, these events make Christmas in Vancouver feel truly special.
Parking shouldn’t add stress to your plans. Use the Indigo Neo app to book your spot in advance so that you can arrive relaxed and enjoy every magical moment.
If you’re ready to enjoy Christmas in Vancouver this year, let’s get started.
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Holiday Festivals/Fairs in Vancouver
Holiday Activities in Vancouver
Holiday Markets In Vancouver
Vancouver Christmas Market
When it comes to festive holiday traditions, the Vancouver Christmas Market is the city’s shining seasonal highlight. Set along the waterfront at Jack Poole Plaza, this beloved market transforms the space into a charming European-style Christmas village from November 13 to December 24, 2025.
As you wander, stroll through rows of wooden huts filled with artisan crafts, festive treats, and unique holiday gifts. After that, warm up with mulled wine, Bavarian classics, and sweet desserts. With sparkling lights, live entertainment, and cozy spots to gather with friends, it’s no wonder this market remains one of Vancouver’s most magical and immersive holiday experiences.
WHERE TO PARK:
Fairmont Pac Rim: 1038 Canada Place
6-minute walk to the venue
Open 24/7, this underground lot offers 179 parking spaces. EV charging available onsite.
Shipyards Christmas Market
For a festive waterfront experience, The Shipyards Christmas Market in North Vancouver is a holiday favourite. From November 28 to December 24, 2025, the Shipyards District transforms into a lively holiday marketplace filled with local makers, seasonal food, and twinkling coastal charm.
As you explore, wander through artisan stalls, sip hot cocoa by the water, enjoy live music, and take in the sparkling lights that illuminate the historic Shipyards. With its cozy atmosphere, unique vendors, and stunning harbour views, it’s unquestionably one of the North Shore’s most magical holiday destinations.
WHERE TO PARK:
Mosquito Creek Marina: 405 Esplanade West
11-minute walk to the venue
Open 24/7, this surface lot offers 120 parking spaces.
NWFM Holiday Market
When it comes to festive holiday shopping in New Westminster, the NWFM Holiday Market is a seasonal favourite. This year, the 2025 market will take place Saturday and Sunday, December 13 and 14, from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. in front of New Westminster City Hall.
As you browse, wander among more than 90 local artisans and food vendors offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, fresh produce, and holiday décor. In addition, you can enjoy food trucks, live music, a kids’ craft tent, and plenty of festive cheer, making it a lively holiday outing for all ages.
WHERE TO PARK:
BC Law Courts: 651 Carnarvon Street
20-minute walk to the venue
Open 24/7, this underground lot offers 125 parking spaces.
Blackberry Winter Arts Market
When it comes to discovering handmade gifts and arty holiday cheer near Vancouver, the Blackberry Winter Arts Market shines bright. Located at PoMoArts in Port Moody, this market runs from November 13 to December 22, 2025, turning the gallery space into a cosy and curated holiday shopping destination.
As you explore, browse through original art, jewellery, home-wares, textiles, ceramics, ornaments and more, all crafted by local BC makers. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or hoping to support local artists, the Blackberry Winter Arts Market offers a warm, creative, and community-centered holiday experience.
WHERE TO PARK:
2721 Clarke Street
9-minute walk to the venue
Open from 9am-10pm, this underground lot offers 21 parking spaces. Payment at this location is available on-site only.
Holiday Festivals/Fairs In Vancouver
Lights At Lafarge
Lights at Lafarge runs from November 28 through early February 2026, transforming Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam into one of Metro Vancouver’s largest free winter light displays. As you make your way around the 1.2-kilometre lakeside loop, you’ll find themed installations, glowing tunnels, and vibrant displays that create a magical evening walk.
Because admission is free, it’s an easy and family-friendly holiday outing for anyone looking to enjoy festive lights without the crowds or the cost.
WHERE TO PARK:
3030 Lincoln Avenue
15-minute walk to the venue
Open 24/7, this underground lot offers 157 parking spaces.
CONTACT Winter Music Festival
CONTACT Winter Music Festival returns to Vancouver on December 26 and 27, 2025, bringing two nights of high-energy electronic music to BC Place Stadium. As Western Canada’s largest indoor winter music festival, it features a massive stage, world-class DJs, immersive lighting, and an electric atmosphere that draws fans from across the region.
In addition, tickets are required, with both single-day and two-day passes available. Altogether, it’s the perfect holiday event for anyone looking to end the year with an unforgettable party.
WHERE TO PARK:
BC Place Stadium: 777 Pacific Boulevard
2-minute walk to the venue
Open 24/7, this multi-storey lot offers 77 parking spaces.
Holiday Concerts In Vancouver
A Charlie Brown Christmas
“A Charlie Brown Christmas in Concert” brings the beloved Peanuts holiday special to life with live music. The show takes place on December 16, 2025 at the Orpheum Theatre in Vancouver.
As the performance unfolds, audiences can enjoy Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus and the whole gang brought to the stage with a full orchestra. The mix of classic characters, warm storytelling, and festive music creates a heartwarming holiday experience for all ages.
It’s a wonderful event for families, friends, or anyone seeking a nostalgic seasonal night out. If you’d like to attend, you can purchase your tickets here.
WHERE TO PARK:
Nelson Square: 808 Nelson Street
7-minute walk to the venue
Open 6:30am-9:00pm, this underground lot offers 238 parking spaces.
Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Goh Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is one of Vancouver’s most magical holiday traditions. The show runs from December 18 to December 21, 2025 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
As the curtain rises, this production brings Clara’s dream world to life with beautiful dancing and stunning storytelling. With over 200 performers, live orchestral music, and detailed costumes, the show creates an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
It’s a festive event perfect for families, friends, or a special night out. If you’re planning to go, you can purchase your tickets here.
WHERE TO PARK:
401 West Georgia Street
4-minute walk to the venue
Open from 6am-11pm, this underground lot offers 235 parking spaces. EV charging available onsite.
Christmas with Chor Leoni
“Chor Leoni’s Christmas Show” is one of Vancouver’s most beloved holiday concerts. The choir performs from December 18 to December 20, 2025 at the Orpheum Theatre.
As the music begins, the show features rich harmonies, emotional storytelling, and beautiful arrangements that capture the heart of the season. From classic carols to soulful holiday pieces, each performance creates a warm and memorable atmosphere.
It’s a wonderful event for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy an inspiring musical tradition. If you plan on attending, you can purchase your tickets here.
WHERE TO PARK:
Nelson Square: 808 Nelson Street
7-minute walk to the venue
Open 6:30am-9:00pm, this underground lot offers 238 parking spaces.
Elf In Concert
“Elf in Concert” brings the beloved holiday film to life in a fun, musical way. The show runs from December 27 to December 28, 2025 at the Orpheum Theatre.
As the movie plays on screen, audiences can enjoy Buddy’s joyful journey with a live orchestra performing the full score. The blend of film, music, and festive humour creates a memorable seasonal experience for all ages. If you’d like to attend, you can purchase your tickets here.
WHERE TO PARK:
Nelson Square: 808 Nelson Street
7-minute walk to the venue
Open 6:30am-9:00pm, this underground lot offers 238 parking spaces.
Holiday Activities In Vancouver
Robson Square Ice Rink
Robson Square Ice Rink opens for the season on November 28, 2025, bringing classic winter fun to the heart of downtown Vancouver. As you step onto the ice, skaters can glide under the iconic glass dome while enjoying festive music, twinkling lights, and the lively energy of the city around them.
Since admission is free and skate rentals cost only a small fee, it’s an easy and accessible outing for families, couples, and friends. It’s a cheerful way to enjoy the season and soak in Vancouver’s downtown holiday atmosphere.
WHERE TO PARK:
The Burrard Building: 1030 West Georgia Street
6-minute walk to the venue
Open from 6am- 8pm, this underground lot offers 158 parking spaces. EV charging available onsite.
HP Holiday Train
The CP Holiday Train rolls into Port Moody on December 20, bringing its iconic, brightly lit railcars and festive live music performances to local stations. As it arrives, families can enjoy holiday songs, meet the team behind the train, and take in the stunning light display as it pulls in, all while supporting a great cause.
Because the event is free, attendees are encouraged to bring a cash or non-perishable donation to support local food banks. All in all, it’s a short but memorable holiday moment that draws big crowds and delivers plenty of seasonal cheer.
WHERE TO PARK:
Ungless Way: 290 Newport Drive
10-minute walk to the venue
Open 24/7, this surface lot offers 32 parking spaces.
Downtown Vancouver Ferris Wheel
The Downtown Vancouver Ferris Wheel returns from December 2, 2025 to January 3, 2026, bringing festive views and a touch of holiday magic to the plaza near the Vancouver Art Gallery. As you rise above the city, you can enjoy a cozy, illuminated ride and take in the lights and buzz of the season from above.
Since tickets are required, it’s worth noting that rides are free on Tuesdays, making it both a fun weekday outing and a memorable weekend activity. Altogether, it’s a charming, quick-stop experience that adds a playful twist to any holiday stroll downtown.
WHERE TO PARK:
The Burrard Building: 1030 West Georgia Street
6-minute walk to the venue
Open from 6am- 8pm, this underground lot offers 158 parking spaces. EV charging available onsite.
Conclusion
Vancouver feels extra magical during the holidays. Whether you’re exploring a festive market, catching a seasonal show, or warming up with a holiday drink, the city is packed with events that make winter feel special.
And to keep every outing stress-free, book your parking ahead with the Indigo Neo app so you can focus on enjoying the season, not circling for a spot.
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