Top Festive Activities in Vancouver: Christmas Events 2024

The holiday season is just around the corner, and Vancouver is bursting with festive events to help you celebrate in style! From enchanting light displays to thrilling performances and holiday markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking magical moments with loved ones or just want to soak in the Christmas spirit, this guide highlights the must-see attractions and events happening across the city this season.

Vancouver Christmas Market

When: Nov 13th – Dec 24th 

The Vancouver Christmas Market, located at Jack Poole Plaza by the Convention Centre, is Vancouver’s original German-themed outdoor holiday market. Featuring dozens of artisan vendors, festive food stalls, a carousel ride, and live entertainment, it offers a charming and authentic holiday experience. With its high-quality offerings, festive atmosphere, and delicious mulled wine or cider, it’s the perfect spot to explore unique gifts and enjoy the holiday spirit with friends.

Purchase tickets: Click Here

Cirque du Soleil- Echo 

When: October 9th – January 5th, 2025

The world-renowned Cirque du Soleil returns to Vancouver in 2024 with their spectacular show, ECHO, hosted under a grand big top at Concord Pacific Place. This awe-inspiring performance explores themes of evolution, animals, nature, and humanity’s impact on the world. Expect breathtaking acrobatics, captivating dancing, live music, and more. While ECHO isn’t a Christmas-themed show, its performances run throughout the festive season, making it a magical experience for all!

Purchase tickets: Click Here

Canyon Lights at Capilano

When: November 22 – January 19, 2025 

Canyon Lights at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver offers a truly magical holiday experience. Renowned for its stunning and tastefully displayed Christmas lights, the illuminated bridges and unique walkways create a one-of-a-kind festive adventure you won’t forget.

Purchase tickets: Click Here

Christmas at FlyOver Canada

When: November 21, January 1, 2025 

FlyOver Canada at Canada Place is a unique multi-dimensional theatre attraction that lets you “fly over” Canada, from the Atlantic to the Pacific and up to the Arctic. During the holiday season, it transforms into a festive adventure where guests join elves and follow Santa across the country. This indoor experience is entertaining, educational, and perfect for any weather, offering a fun and immersive way to celebrate the season.

Purchase tickets: Click Here

VanDusen Festival of Lights 

When: November 29th- January 9th, 2025 

Experience the magic of Vancouver’s finest botanical garden, adorned with hundreds of thousands of sparkling Christmas lights! This must-see attraction is perfect for getting into the festive spirit, with enchanting displays and a warm holiday atmosphere. In past years, it’s also featured carousel rides and visits with Santa, making it a cherished holiday tradition.

Purchase tickets: Click Here

PNE Winter Fair

When: December 6th – December 23, 2024 

Celebrate winter in style at the PNE Winter Fair!  Stroll through the enchanting Winter Lights (perfect for photos!), skate or try Ice Bumper Cars at the Tim Hortons Ice Rink, and indulge in festive flavors at Holiday Eats & Treats. Enjoy live shows like Nutcracker on Ice and The Magic of Santa, and don’t miss the two new rides this year—the Ferris Wheel and Berry Go Round. 

Purchase tickets here: Click Here

Shipyards Christmas Market

When: November 29th – December 24th 

The Shipyards Christmas Market is a new event debuting in 2024. It’s a European-style market with about 75 different vendors. Admission is free. The first edition of the market offers food and drinks to buy, as well as live music to entertain crowds. The city’s main Christmas tree is on site and there are other displays and photo opportunities too.

With so many incredible events to choose from, the holiday season in Vancouver promises to be unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring the festive charm of the Vancouver Christmas Market, marveling at the stunning Canyon Lights, or enjoying the magic of Cirque du Soleil, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate!