Christmas Vancouver 2025: Where to Go, What to Do & What to See
- LFR Team
- 5 hours ago
- 5 min read
As the Vancouver skyline glows under winter lights and holiday cheer fills the air, 2025 promises a magical season of Christmas markets, light displays, ice skating, and cozy events across Metro Vancouver. Whether you’re a local looking for family-friendly outings or a visitor wanting to soak in the festive spirit, here’s your guide to the best holiday experiences this December — and beyond.
1. Explore Iconic Light Displays & Winter Walks
From November 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026, the forest, canyon, suspension bridge, and rainforest at Capilano transform into a glowing holiday wonderland — with millions of twinkling lights, thematic decorations, and a festive rainforest ambiance.
Walking across the illuminated suspension bridge high above the canyon, wandering through lighted treetops, or exploring the “Cliffwalk” is a magical winter outing. It’s one of Vancouver’s most famous holiday spectacles and a must-see for visitors and locals alike.
VanDusen Festival of Lights
A seasonal favourite, VanDusen Botanical Garden lights up with over a million lights, animated displays, and holiday-themed zones — creating a garden wonderland perfect for strolling with family, friends, or a date night.
It’s a great way to enjoy holiday magic without leaving the city core. Bring a warm drink, take a slow walk among glowing trees and lit paths, and enjoy the peaceful yet festive atmosphere.
2. Holiday & Christmas Markets — Gifts, Food, and Festive Vibes
Running from November 13 to December 24, 2025, the city’s longest-running German-style holiday market returns with over 90–110 artisan huts offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, festive treats, and seasonal food and drink.
Expect mulled wine, bratwurst, holiday sweets, handmade ornaments — and a magical atmosphere, with holiday music, live entertainment, and a charming Christmas-village vibe.
Markets like this are perfect for finding thoughtful gifts — whether that’s artisan crafts, cosy scarves, or local treats — especially if you enjoy supporting small businesses and unique creators.
Shipyards Christmas Market & Festive Markets on the North Shore
If you’re on Vancouver’s North Shore or looking for a more relaxed and local vibe, check out the Shipyards Christmas Market — running November 28 to December 24, 2025. Admission is free, and you’ll find artisanal gifts, festive music, hot drinks, and a cozy seasonal atmosphere.
Other smaller markets and craft fairs also pop up across Metro Vancouver — giving you plenty of options for gifting, browsing handmade goods, or just enjoying festive shopping without the hustle of major malls.
3. Ice Skating, Winter Fairs & Cozy Holiday Fun
Ice Skating at Robson Square Ice Rink
From December 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026, Robson Square’s downtown ice rink opens for public skating — a quintessential Vancouver winter activity.
Whether you bring your own skates or rent on-site, it’s a fun, simple, and deliciously seasonal outing — perfect for leisurely skating with friends, families, or a festive date night.
New for 2025, the Winter Fair transforms Hastings Park with lights, entertainment, and festive attractions. Expect holiday-themed rides, holiday markets, food vendors, and seasonal décor — a lively option if you want indoor + outdoor fun.
It’s a great option for families, friends, or anyone seeking a festive outing with a mix of fair-style fun and holiday charm.
4. Unique & Festive Holiday Experiences
The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
Want a “winter-mountain” Christmas feel — snow, lights, and mountain views? The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain combines snowy slopes with holiday decorations, festive events, and mountain-side magic.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes, enjoying a cozy winter village vibe, or simply taking in mountain-top views under twinkling lights, this is a lovely escape if you want a nature + holiday blend.
Festive Nights, Pop-up Markets & Local Events
Winter in Vancouver also brings smaller—but charming—events like craft fairs, artisan pop-ups, holiday markets beyond downtown, and community events across Metro Vancouver. These can offer unique gifts, handmade goods, and opportunities to support local artisans.
Keep an eye on community calendars — new events often pop up as the season progresses, giving you flexible options for festive outings or last-minute gift shopping.
5. How to Make the Most of Christmas 2025 in Vancouver
With so many events happening across the city and its surroundings, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your festive season in Vancouver:
Plan ahead and book early — Popular events like Canyon Lights and market weekends tend to sell out fast, especially on Fridays and weekends.
Mix “classic” + “local” events — Pair iconic major experiences (like the Vancouver Christmas Market or VanDusen Lights) with smaller local markets or North Shore events to get a full picture of the city’s holiday spirit.
Use public transit or rideshares — Parking can be challenging downtown or near major venues; many holiday events are close to transit.
Bundle outings with treats or gifts — Visiting markets and lights? Combine with a visit to a local chocolatier or gift shop to get thoughtful gifts or souvenirs.
Dress warm & plan for weather — Vancouver winters are often wet and chilly. Good boots, a warm coat, and umbrella make all the difference — especially if you’re exploring outdoor light displays or markets.
6. Why Vancouver at Christmas Feels Special
What makes Vancouver’s 2025 holiday season feel different isn’t just the snow or the lights — it’s the sense of community, local creativity, and the blend of urban charm and natural beauty. From handcrafted holiday gifts at markets to rainforest light walks on the North Shore, there’s something for every mood and every type of person.
It’s not about “doing it all” — it’s about discovering what feels magical to you. Maybe it’s sipping hot cocoa under garden lights, ice skating downtown, or strolling through a local market full of handmade treasures.
What remains constant is the warmth: the shared smiles, busy markets, glow of lights against winter weather, and the blend of traditions + local flair that make Vancouver at Christmastime uniquely inviting.
Final Thoughts & Holiday Wish
Whether you’re a Vancouver local or just visiting for the season, Christmas 2025 offers a rich lineup of events and festive experiences. From glowing bridges and botanical gardens to cozy markets and snowy mountaintops — there’s a holiday memory waiting for you here.
So wrap up warm, grab a friend (or go solo for introspective strolls), and dive into the magic: the lights, the markets, the winter air — and the holiday spirit that brings Vancouver alive.
Happy holidays — may your season be full of warmth, joy, and festive memories.
