VM Picks: 2017 Holiday Bucket List

The cool, dark weather is here but there’s brightness everywhere. It’s the holidays after all, and there are lots of ways to lift the spirits at this time of year from twinkly lights to festive outings and even snow if you head to the North Shore and beyond. Here are are few family-friendly holiday picks sure to put a smile on your face. And be sure to check out our Top 100 Holiday activities list!
VM Picks: 2017 Holiday Bucket List
The Spirit of Christmas at Sea to Sky Gondola
Who doesn’t want to get into the snow at this time of year? The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish offers incredible mountain views as well as loads of holiday fun for the the kids. Explore the decorated holiday trail through the month of December. Lined with lights and whimsical decorations, the Spirit Trail gets transformed into a winter wonderland. Plus it’s wheelchair and stroller trail friendly, and leads guests back to the Summit Lodge where you can warm up with hot cocoa by the fire.
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Sea to Sky Gondola premium listing
Christmas at FlyOver Canada
Looking for a thrilling and delightful Christmas outing with the kids? Head down to Canada Place, wander along the glittering promenade taking in the views and festive windows, then board a breathtaking virtual flight with Santa and his elves at FlyOver Canada.
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Trending: Christmas at FlyOver Canada
Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
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Grouse Mountain premium listing
Skating at Robson Square

Imagine skating surrounded by lights and in the heart of downtown. As one of Vancouver’s only guaranteed outdoor skating rinks (unless we have a freeze up like last year!), this is a must-go this holiday season. Skating is free and skate rentals are $4.
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Holiday ice skating!
Lights at Glow Christmas
Last year, it was Enchant and this year, it’s Glow! This new glittering display takes place at the Milner Garden Centre in Langley with 103,000 square feet of lights including four Christmas-themed light gardens and a musical light tunnel. Kids can help Santa locate his lost presents scattered throughout the light gardens while parents amble through the Christmas market. Food vendors, real drinks, and food trucks are all on hand. PS: It’s all indoors so no need to pack an umbrella!
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Top ten light events
Christmas Trees from Aunt Leah’s
For over 20 years Aunt Leah’s Tree Lots have been raising money to fund programs that help prevent children in foster care from becoming homeless, and young mothers from losing custody of their children. Last year they raised over $450,000 thanks to generous community members, sponsors, and volunteers. This Christmas season why not join the tradition and help give kids a home. PS. They deliver!
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Where to get a Christmas tree
Catch a live performance
Whether its a classic like the Goh Ballet’s Nutcracker, the madcap shenanigans of the panto or a wintry production of the Lion the Witch and Wardrobe the hols are the perfect time to head out as a family to see a live performance.
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Kid-friendly holiday performances
Shop local at the Make it Show

Join the homemade revolution. The Make it! show and market at the PNE features clothing, accessories, art, home decor, gourmet goodies, baby and kid items and other unique treasures. Plus, food trucks and a beer garden to get you in the festive spirit. Sold!
December 7-10, 2017
$8 at the door, kids 12 and under are free
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Vancouver holiday craft fairs
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Whether it was the solar eclipse in August or the end of the Saturn Cassini mission, there were a lot of spectacular astronomical events in 2017. During the holiday week, the Space Centre will celebrate with a special craft every day. Kids will be making everything from comets to origami spaceships and even black holes. And the Space Centre shows will highlight some of last year’s memorable events.
December 26, 2017 – January 7, 2018
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HR MacMillan Space Centre
Next >> See our Top 100 Holiday Activities for Families
Harriet Fancott is the Editor and Social Media Manager for Vancouver Mom. She has over 20 years experience in the arts, tech and mom-based blogging arenas. She lives in East Vancouver with her husband and son where they enjoy exploring all that Vancouver has to offer from festivals and events to playgrounds and beaches to sushi and ice cream (although not together).