Science World Winter Camps: Magic & Illusions for Vancouver Kids
If you’re searching for winter camps during Christmas break in Vancouver for kids ages 6 to 13, we’ve got you covered. Science World is running their Winter Camps this December, and honestly, it’s one of the best options out there for keeping the kids engaged during that tricky holiday break.
Yes, There Are Camps Running During Christmas Break!
Science World is offering 3-day Winter Camps during both the pre-Christmas and post-Christmas weeks. Perfect timing for parents who need something structured while the kids are off school.
When exactly?
- Week 1: December 22-24 (right before Christmas)
- Week 2: December 29-31 (between Christmas and New Year’s)
Ages: Grades 1-7, which covers kids born between 2013-2019. That’s roughly ages 6-12, so right in your sweet spot.

What’s This Year’s Camp Theme?
This year it’s all about Magic & Illusions, and the kids are going to love it. They’ll learn real magic tricks, discover the science behind illusions, and basically become mini-magicians who can explain exactly why their tricks work.
The Practical Details You Need
Time: 9am to 3pm daily
- Bonus: FREE Stay & Play until 4pm if you need extra time (not available Dec 24 & 31, though)
Cost:
- Members: $249.95 for the 3-day camp
- Non-members: $299.95
- If you’re not a member yet, it’s worth looking into. The membership discount pays for itself pretty quickly.
Location: Science World at TELUS World of Science, 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver (that iconic dome by False Creek)
Registration Opens:
- Members get early access: October 17 at 9am
- Public registration: October 20 at 9am

What Will Your Kids Actually Do?
Here’s what a typical day looks like:
Learn Real Magic Tricks Not just watching someone perform, but actually learning how to do card tricks, optical illusions, and classic magic tricks. They’ll go home with skills they can show off at family gatherings (you’re welcome for the entertainment).
Behind-the-Scenes Access The kids get to see how Science World’s live shows work and create their own illusion crafts. Everything they make, they bring home.
Hands-On Science Mind-reading activities (psychology), feats of “strength” (physics), and all sorts of experiments that make them go “WHOA!”
Explore the Galleries Full access to Science World’s interactive galleries during camp. Even if your kid has been there before, exploring with their camp group hits different.
Watch Live Science Shows Exclusive performances that connect to the magic and illusions theme.

How It Works (The Science Part)
This is what makes Science World different from other camps. Sure, the kids are learning magic tricks, but they’re also learning WHY the tricks work.
They’re using observation, prediction, critical thinking, and psychology. Magic is really just applied science, and by the end of camp, your kid will understand concepts like:
- How optical illusions trick the brain
- Why misdirection works (psychology)
- The physics behind sleight of hand
- Math in card tricks
It’s STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) disguised as pure fun. The sneakiest kind of education.
Camp Groups and Age Ranges
Worried your 6-year-old will be overwhelmed by the 12-year-olds? Don’t be. Science World splits campers into age-appropriate groups based on birth year. The activities are designed to be flexible so everyone from the youngest to oldest can participate and excel at their own level.
The camp leaders are trained to support each age group differently, so your grade 1 kid gets the same quality experience as a grade 7 kid, just tailored to where they’re at.
Why Science World?
If you haven’t been to Science World in a while, here’s what you need to know: this isn’t your typical museum. It’s a hands-on, interactive science centre that’s been making Vancouver kids fall in love with learning for over 30 years.
The whole philosophy is learning through play. No boring lectures, no sitting still. Everything is touch, build, experiment, explore. The staff genuinely loves being around curious kids, and it shows.
You asked if there are winter camps during Christmas break in Vancouver for ages 6-13, and the answer is yes. Science World’s Winter Camp is one of your best bets, especially if your kid loves hands-on activities, science, or just being amazed by cool stuff.
The timing works (both pre and post-Christmas weeks), the age range is perfect (grades 1-7), and the program is engaging enough that your kid will actually want to go back each day.
Plus, it’s downtown, there’s free parking, and the staff knows what they’re doing. For that tricky week when school is out but life hasn’t stopped, this camp gives your kid something to look forward to and gives you one less thing to worry about.
Head to scienceworld.ca/winter-camps to book your spot before they’re gone.
Follow Science World:
Facebook:www.facebook.com/scienceworldca/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/scienceworldca/
Sponsored by Science World

Science World is a non-profit science centre in Vancouver that inspires kids and families through hands-on exhibits, STEAM learning, and fun educational programs.
Would you like to write for us? We welcome well-written guest submissions with a local interest slant. Share your tips, review local businesses and highlight hot trends for Vancouver moms. Get all the info on our Contributor Page!


