Family Fun Things to Do During Christmas Break in Vancouver

WINTER BREAK

Here’s a list of fun activities to enjoy as a family during the winter break from December 20 – January 4, 2026.

Grouse Mountain Resort

More Fun Things to Do During Winter Break

See Christmas Lights

See thousands of twinkling lights that adorn the city!

  • Illuminating the streets with a breathtaking display of Christmas lights are the Lights of Hope.
  • From the famous Public Market to the Granville Island Hotel, lights across the almost 40 acre site make for a beautiful, open air stroll whether you are under the stars, or under an umbrella.
  • Downtown Maple Ridge and Memorial Peace park will be illuminated with beautiful holiday light installations that will make the town centre a magical winter destination.
  • Be transported through nine enchanted lands filled with glowing lights in your mission to discover Santa, with special characters and festive performers to help you along your way.
  • See beautifully decorated trees all lit up for the season from Dundarave Beach eastward to Millennium Park and the Grosvenor Ambleside Galleria.
  • Williams Park has been transformed into an annual winter wonderland full of twinkling lights and joyful decorations.

and more.

Fun Events During the Break

26 Jun

Science World, 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver

June 26, 2025 To April 6, 2026

604.443.7440

$24.25 to $35.75

Blast Off to the Moon—One LEGO® Brick at a Time! Prepare… for… liftoff! Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO® Bricks, presented by White Spot Restaurants, turns the ...  »

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30 Oct

Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, 2750 Granville Street, Vancouver

October 30, 2025 To January 4, 2026

604.687.5315

$39 & up

Experience the magic of the beloved animated movie live before your eyes! Revel in showstopping favourites such as “Let It Go,” “For the First Time in Forever,” ...  »

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07 Nov

Cougar Mountain Road, Whistler

November 7, 2025 To March 31, 2026

 6+: $49.99 & up

Vallea Lumina, winter experience, created by Moment Factory and powered by The Adventure Group Whistler,  will greet the season with a winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights, ...  »

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07 Nov

Stanley Park,  690 Pipeline Road, Vancouver

November 7, 2025 To February 1, 2026

$63 & up

Ready your wand and cast spells, come face-to-face with magical creatures, revisit iconic scenes from the movies, and enjoy a spellbinding Forbidden Forest experience based on the ...  »

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12 Nov

Metropolis at Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby

November 12, 2025 To December 30, 2025

Free

Metropolis at Metrotown invites locals and visitors alike to get into the holiday spirit and join in for holly jolly fun at BC’s biggest shopping centre. ...  »

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19 Nov

York Theatre, 639 Commercial Drive, Vancouver

November 19, 2025 To January 11, 2026

604-251-1363

$35 & up

When a freak atmospheric tsunami strands West Van influencer Holly, and her curling crew The Hurry Hards, deep in the wilds of East Van, she’s ready ...  »

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20 Nov

Steveston Village, Richmond

November 20, 2025 To December 31, 2025

Free and/or low cost ​

Richmond’s charming waterfront village is a Christmas destination for locals and visitors who love the magic of the festive holiday season. From decorated historic sites to ...  »

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20 Nov

The Improv Centre, 1502 Duranleau Street, Vancouver

November 20, 2025 To December 30, 2025

6047387013

$26.50 to $38.50 

Cue the holiday laughs! A close-knit bunch of pals take on big city life, festive mishaps, and seasonal surprises – all improvised in classic sitcom style. With commercial ...  »

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20 Nov

Flyover, 201 - 999 Canada Place, Vancouver

November 20, 2025 To January 4, 2026

855 463 4822

$19 to $35+fees

‘Tis the season for a festive journey with Santa Claus! Flyover will once again whisk travellers to the glittering, snow-blanketed landscapes of the North Pole with the ...  »

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20 Nov

6690 216 St, Langley

November 20, 2025 To December 30, 2025

6047291448

$14.99 & up

Dazzling displays, playful adventures, and interactive storybook settings await you as Glow Langley presents The Magic Toyshop.  Lights sparkle and toys come alive with new magical lands ...  »

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21 Nov

Grouse Mountain Resort, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver

November 21, 2025 To December 24, 2025

Regular Admission

Step into a world of enchantment at Vancouver’s North Pole, where twinkling lights, the gentle echo of snowfall, and the thrill of encountering a real reindeer ...  »

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22 Nov

Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel, 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby

November 22, 2025 To January 2, 2026

Free

Come experience Heritage Christmas presented by Concord Pacific at Burnaby Village Museum. Enjoy the special atmosphere of festive lights and the traditional decorations. Event Highlights: Festive lights ...  »

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22 Nov

Museum of Surrey, 177110 56A Avenue, Surrey

November 22, 2025 To December 22, 2025

Free

Where else can you find a free, local, indoor Christmas event? Museum of Surrey is uniting Cloverdale businesses and organizations for some friendly competition… to decorate the ...  »

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22 Nov

Harrison Lakefront, Harrison Hot Springs

November 22, 2025 To January 11, 2026

604-615-6184

Free

Experience the Magic of the Season with Lights by the Lake! Each winter, enchanting holiday displays transform the Harrison lakefront. Lights by the Lake highlights Harrison’s ...  »

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27 Nov

Granville Island Stage, 1585 Johnston Street, Vancouver

November 27, 2025 To January 4, 2026

604.687.5315

$37.00 - $83.00

Set in 19th-century New England, Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women follows the four March sisters—independent Jo (Kate Besworth), traditional Meg (Elizabeth Barrett), shy Beth (Ming ...  »

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27 Nov

Hyatt Regency Vancouver, 655 Burrard St, Vancouver

November 27, 2025 To December 28, 2025

6046834712

Free

Each year, the hotel lobby transforms into a festive wonderland filled with approximately 30 gingerbread houses crafted by talented members of the community. Participants are divided into three ...  »

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28 Nov

Town Centre Park, 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam

November 28, 2025 To February 16, 2026

Free

Join in the magic of the opening night of the Lower Mainland's largest free outdoor lights display at Lafarge Lake. The dazzling light displays that encircle the 1.2 ...  »

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28 Nov

Cloverdale Fairgrounds,   17905 62 Ave #17607, Surrey

November 28, 2025 To December 28, 2025

$17.85 to $26.25

The magic of Bright Nights joins Noel Surrey for the ultimate Christmas celebration. Explore incredible light displays, family fun, rides, meet & greets with holiday characters, music, ...  »

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29 Nov

West Coast Railway Heritage Park, 39645 Government Road, Squamish

November 29, 2025 To December 21, 2025

(604) 229-1103

$41 to $52.50+fees

The North Pole Express is a fun family Christmas event that takes you on an adventurous and entertaining train ride from our Polar Express Station to our ...  »

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29 Nov

Dundarave Beach, Millennium Park and the Grosvenor Ambleside Galleria. 

November 29, 2025 To January 6, 2026

By donation

In the true spirit of the season, the Festival's "Forest of Miracles" calls out the better angels in all of us.The Forest of Miracles this season ...  »

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29 Nov

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, 12138 Fourth Ave, Richmond

November 29, 2025 To January 4, 2026

Regular Admission

The annual Steveston Festival of Trees features holiday trees decorated by local merchants and organizations.   »

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29 Nov

Sea to Sky Gondola, 36800 Highway 99, Squamish

November 29, 2025 To December 31, 2025

Regular Admission

Visitors of all ages are invited to create magical memories and a new holiday tradition this year with the Sea to Sky Gondola’s Spirit of the ...  »

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30 Nov

Various Venues, Metro Vancouver

November 30, 2025 To December 20, 2025

Varies

Experience the magic of The Nutcracker this holiday season with RCYB’s annual full-length ballet. Featuring a cast of 100+ dedicated and enthusiastic dancers, The Nutcracker is under ...  »

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01 Dec

Bear Creek Park, 13750 88th Avenue, Surrey

December 1, 2025 To December 31, 2025

(604) 501-1232

$12.50

Visit with Santa & receive a candy cane, children do activities on our platform and take a train ride through the Christmas forest.  »

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01 Dec

8222 Burnlake Drive, Burnaby

December 1, 2025 To January 4, 2026

Free

There are lights everywhere, with angels upon the roofline, snowmen, trees and animals throughout the lawn, inflatable characters in all the right places and so much more. ...  »

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02 Dec

Coal Harbour, Vancouver

December 2, 2025 To January 3, 2026

Free

Bringing a little magic and meaning to the beautiful seawall in Coal Harbour, Destination Downtown is a free, month-long family-friendly activation that will see lighting installations, musicians, ...  »

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04 Dec

Gastown, 107 Carrall St, Vancouver

December 4, 2025 To December 31, 2025

Free

This month, Gastown is transforming into a holiday wonderland, inviting guests to experience The Magic of Gastown—a neighbourhood-wide holiday celebration filled with festive entertainment, nostalgic traditions, ...  »

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11 Dec

Gateway Theatre, 6500 Gilbert Rd., Richmond

December 11, 2025 To January 3, 2026

$25-$73

With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to ...  »

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13 Dec

Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver

December 13, 2025 To December 31, 2025

Free

This winter, renew a classic Vancouver tradition and enjoy some old-fashioned fun. Robson Square’s outdoor skating rink is open, so celebrate winter in style with free ...  »

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13 Dec

Williams Park, 238 68 Avenue, Langley City

December 13, 2025 To December 28, 2025

Free

Join us for Holiday Lights in Williams Park, a free, family-friendly outdoor event featuring over 150,000 lights and festive displays! Holiday Lights is a drive-through event. Family and ...  »

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13 Dec

Cloverdale Arena, 6090 176 Street, Surrey

December 13, 2025 To January 4, 2026

$5

Holiday fun for the whole family has returned to Surrey for the 24th year! Cloverdale Arena will be transformed into a winter wonderland with festive lights, decorations ...  »

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14 Dec

Harbour Cruises, 501 Denman Street, Vancouver

December 14, 2025 To December 21, 2025

$69.99 to $99.99 +fees

Start the holiday season with an unforgettable family adventure aboard our Breakfast with Santa Cruise! This festive experience is perfect for kids – and kids at heart – looking ...  »

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17 Dec

Deep Cove Stage, 4360 Gallant Avenue, North Vancouver

December 17, 2025 To December 28, 2025

$22+fees

This beloved holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to ...  »

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19 Dec

Various Venues, Metro Vancouver

December 19, 2025 To December 20, 2025

Free, Donations appreciated

The CP Holiday Train is happy to be back for its supporting food banks and food shelves across our network by raising money, food and awareness for ...  »

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19 Dec

Orpheum, 601 Smithe St, Vancouver

December 19, 2025 To December 20, 2025

604.876.3434

$31.50 - $145 +fees

Buddy was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler, and raised among Santa’s elves. This holiday season Buddy travels to New York — with a ...  »

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20 Dec

Fraser River Discovery Center, 788 Quayside Drive, New Westminster

December 20, 2025 To January 4, 2026

6045218401

$5-$20

Winter has arrived at the Fraser River. Celebrate the season at Winter Discovery Days! Things calm down at this time of year but there’s lots going ...  »

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20 Dec

Cypress Mountain, 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver

December 20, 2025 To December 21, 2025

Regular Admission

Celebrate the holidays at Cypress Mountain! Join us for a day of holiday cheer in the mountains. The Crazy Raven and patios will be filled with festive ...  »

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21 Dec

Yaletown, Granville Island & Strathcona

December 21, 2025

Free to $15

We can’t wait to join hundreds of community members walking in the 3 lantern processions along False Creek to Granville Island, with yet another procession in David ...  »

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27 Dec

Rogers Arena,  800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver

December 27, 2025

$63.50 & up

Experience the excitement of the National Hockey League with the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena! Witness fast-paced action, incredible skill, and unforgettable moments as top athletes compete ...  »

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30 Dec

Rogers Arena,  800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver

December 30, 2025

$63.50 & up

Experience the excitement of the National Hockey League with the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena! Witness fast-paced action, incredible skill, and unforgettable moments as players compete for ...  »

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31 Dec

Vancouver Playhouse, 600 Hamilton St, Vancouver

December 31, 2025

$35.50 & up+fees

It all starts early, at Vancouver’s family-friendly New Year’s Eve tradition. Fun for all ages, but not just for kids! Hosted by funny-man Daniel Zindler ...  »

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31 Dec

Grouse Mountain, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver

December 31, 2025

Regular Admission

Grouse Mountain is proud to reach its 100-year milestone in 2026, marking the occasion with a New Year’s Eve centennial kick-off on Wednesday, December 31st! Join us ...  »

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01 Jan

English Bay Beach, Beach Ave, Vancouver

January 1, 2026

Free

On Jan 1st jump into New Year with a splash and take an invigorating dip in English Bay. Enjoy live musical entertainment, food trucks and more beginning ...  »

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02 Jan

Rogers Arena, 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver

January 2, 2026

$63.50 & up

Experience the excitement of the National Hockey League with the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena! Witness fast-paced action, incredible skill, and unforgettable moments as top athletes compete ...  »

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02 Jan

Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave., New Westminster

January 2, 2026 To January 4, 2026

Varies

Traditional British Panto at it’s rambunctious best! Sparkling, magical, family fun awaits when you join our wacky cast! Come and sing along with toe-tapping music, groan ...  »

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03 Jan

Rogers Arena, 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver

January 3, 2026

$63.50 & up

Experience the excitement of the National Hockey League with the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena! Witness fast-paced action, incredible skill, and unforgettable moments as top athletes compete ...  »

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Skiing

Skiing is an enjoyable way to take in the winter scenery and a great activity for all ages. There are many places to enjoy skiing near Vancouver.

Snowshoeing

For easy, fun winter sports, try snowshoeing. This is an excellent way to exercise in winter and a great way to enjoy nature’s beauty. The snowshoeing trails at Mount Seymour wind through scenic lakes and old forests and will get you back in touch with nature.

Tobogganing

Tobogganing is a fun winter activity that’s enjoyed by one and all. Why not head out to enjoy it today?

Winter Golf

Winter is a great time to hone your golf skills. Book your tee time.

Geocaching

Find hidden treasures and discover the many geocaches located throughout the region. This family-friendly activity uses a mobile app or a GPS device. This is also a fun way to interact with nature while getting mild exercise and explore new areas.

Winter Walk

Winter Walks anyone? The beauty of winter can best be enjoyed by a walk. Whether you take a brisk walk or a relaxed one, what is certain is that you will have a wonderful time enjoying the open air. Pack a picnic and plan to spend an afternoon outside playing games with your loved ones.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll at the 310 acres Queen Elizabeth Park.  Or drive down to West Vancouver’s Whytecliff Park to enjoy scenic views of Howe Sounds.

The historical Stanley Park is also well known for its unbeatable views. To enjoy hiking along shoreline trails head to Pacific Spirit Regional Park. 

Located in the heart of China Town is the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. This is a great place to enjoy tranquil nature and experience a moment of silent Zen.

25 Bucket List Worthy Nature Attractions In and Around Vancouver

Christmas Dinner/Brunch

Support your local restaurants this year by dining in or ordering a festive take-out dinner this holiday season. 

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain offers many incomparable experiences to enjoy in the winter season. Skating, sky rides, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sliding, ziplining are some of the activities to do. At dusk, experience the magic of the enchanting Light Walk. Details

The Hive Bouldering Gym

Challenge yourself at The Hive Vancouver’s climbing wall! Details

Children’s Activities

Keep your child engaged at home with these fun activities.

 

Go Bird Watching

Birding is a fun activity to do in winter. What are the popular winter birds that you can spot? Can you notice any winter adaptation changes in them? Grab a pair of binoculars, download a bird ID app, and try to name all the birds that you can spot. Do a Christmas Bird Count. If you don’t want to venture outside do an unofficial count of the birds that visit your bird feeder.

 

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