Ten holiday events for families opening this weekend, Nov 30 & Dec 1
Say what? It’s the first weekend of December?! Yup, it’s officially time get in the holiday mood. Pick up a live tree, visit some holiday lights, watch a tree lighting, book a ticket on the Christmas train and sharpen up your skates because outdoor rinks are opening up.
Holiday Events opening this weekend in Vancouver
Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting *Free*
November 29 2019 Vancouver
Back for its 13th year, this free family friendly event takes place at Robson Square and features four magnificent holiday trees, one of which is 76 feet tall. Come for the tree lighting, and stay for the live entertainment, free cookies and hot chocolate, food trucks and fun for the kids.
>> Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting
CandyTown Yaletown Holiday Festival *Free*
November 30 2019 Vancouver
Bring the kids downtown for this free winter festival. Lights and candy canes adorn lamp poles while costumed characters parade down the street. Stilt walkers and roaming holiday characters interact with revellers, to the wonderment of tots – while live music and carolling sets the stage for Yuletide cheer.
>> CandyTown
Shipyards Christmas Festival
November 30 2019 North Vancouver
The Shipyards will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with music and twinkling lights. Enjoy ornament & lantern making, storytime, gingerbread decorating, balloon creations and face painting. The Mayor will light the City’s Christmas tree at 4 pm.
>> Christmas in the Shipyards District
Big Rigs for Kids *Free*
December 1 2019 Surrey
Take part in this holiday tradition in Surrey. Kids (and especially pint-sized truck lovers!) will enjoy the intricate light displays depicting holiday favourites including Rudolph, Frosty and more. Plus festive crafts, entertainment, and even a community sing-a-long!
The #Telus Vancouver Santa Claus Parade *Free*
December 1, 2019 Vancouver
The parade features over 60 marching bands, dance troupes, festive floats and community groups, attracting over 300,000 spectators along its route through downtown Vancouver.
>> The Vancouver Santa Claus Parade
Lights at Lafarge Kick off Party *Free*
November 30 2019 Coquitlam
Lafarge Lake kicks off its annual transformation into a magical outdoor holiday wonderland with entertainment, food and fun and of course, 100,000 twinkling lights.
Festival of Lights at Van Dusen Gardens
November 30, 2019 to January 5, 2020 Vancouver
This is a evening great adventure with kids. Huge parts of the gardens are lit up (1 million lights in fact) in a dazzling display. There are the “dancing lights” on the central pond, a carousel, sweet treats, real food, and hot chocolate on offer, as well as a lovely Santa in his living room.
Bright Nights at Stanley Park
November 28, 2019 – January 1, 2020 Vancouver
A favourite adventure for Vancouver families, the Christmas train winds through holiday light displays and past live performers on a 14-minute ride. Wander around the train plaza before and after to see all the little Christmas displays and lights. Snacks, hot chocolate and more are available around the train plaza.
Where the Wild Things Are
November 29 – December 5 2019 North Vancouver
The wild rumpus starts again with the return of our signature production of Where the Wild Things Are. Jump right in and help Max transform his bedroom into the many landscapes of his adventures. Sail along together to the land of the Wild Things! This interactive production is a guided play experience for the 3-6 set, adapted from the timeless classic by Maurice Sendak.
Ice Skating at Robson Square *Free*
December 1 – February 29 2020
Free skating (with a $5 fee for skate rentals if you need them)! This is a fantastic and magical place to enjoy with the family. Skating in the square surrounded by lights and in the heart of downtown.
Christmas in Kerrisdale *Free*
Weekly from November 30 – December 22, 2019 Vancouver
Enjoy the charm of Kerrisdale on a December weekend with strolling bands, Christmas quartets, holiday horse and carriage rides, and on the 15th, the Gliding on Ice free skating event.
Kickoff to Christmas Makers Market
Nov 29 & 30 2019 Abbotsford
Looking for buy local this year? If you’re out in the valley, you can’t beat the Kickoff to Christmas Makers Market, which takes place this weekend in Abbotsford. We highlight 5 makers you won’t want to miss!
