Vancouver 
Ever wondered what it would be like to walk through the charming streets of a Christmas movie? In Langley, you can do just that, without a film crew or cameras rolling.
Credit Ian Harland
Martini Town, a working film backlot usually closed to the public, will open for its annual Merry & Bright holiday event from November 20 to December 31, 2026.
The outdoor set, used for movies and television productions, features a small-town streetscape complete with a retro diner, courthouse, movie theatre, coffee shop and New York-style brownstones.
During Merry & Bright, these filming locations become a Christmas village filled with lights, decorated storefronts, entertainment and seasonal attractions.
What Makes Merry & Bright Different From Other Christmas Events?
Credit Ian Harland
Unlike a conventional Christmas market or light display, the main attraction here is the film set itself.
Visitors can wander through streets designed for the screen, admire elaborate window displays and take photographs against backdrops that might look familiar from holiday movies.
The experience is particularly appealing to Christmas movie fans, couples looking for festive photo opportunities and families who enjoy seasonal displays. However, parents should know that this is primarily a walk-through experience rather than a children’s activity centre.
What Can You See and Do in 2026?
Credit: George Malczynski
This year’s event introduces several changes alongside returning attractions.
- A Christmas tree made of presents: Forget the usual ornaments. This year’s centrepiece is a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree made entirely of stacked gift boxes, adding a playful touch to the holiday streets and another spot for festive photos.
- New displays and movie-themed installations: There’s more to discover around the film set this year, from redesigned Christmas window displays to new decorations tucked along the streets. A silent cinema experience in an alley adds a nostalgic nod to Martini Town’s movie-making roots.
- Live entertainment: Follow the music to the courthouse steps, where a rotating lineup of performers will bring Christmas tunes and seasonal entertainment to the streets throughout the event.
- Familiar Christmas characters: Keep an eye out for the Green Christmas Grouch, who will be causing mischief throughout the season. Santa will be around for family visits and photos through December 23, with Santa’s Elf lending a hand. On Friday evenings, visitors might also cross paths with Ebenezer Scrooge.
- A little movie-style snowfall: Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, visitors can still enjoy a touch of winter. Film-style artificial snow will bring a bit of Christmas movie atmosphere to the decorated streets.
- Christmas shopping: Step into the heated Market Lane tent for a browse among approximately 20 vendors throughout the season. With handmade gifts, festive finds and a mix of returning and rotating sellers, it’s a chance to pick up a few presents while exploring the Christmas village.
What Can You Eat and Drink?
You can make an evening of your visit with several food vendors operating on-site.
New additions include Taco Nori, serving sushi tacos, and Mediterranean Grill, offering wraps, fries and other dishes.
Texas Smoke BBQ, Hot Mini Donuts, Sticky’s Candy and Bar Down Bakery are among the returning vendors.
For adults, the 2026 event also introduces alcoholic beverages, including beer from Barnside Brewing, cider from Fraser Valley Cider, mulled wine and spiked hot chocolate.
Food, drinks and market purchases cost extra.
What Should You Know Before Going?
The biggest draw is the opportunity to explore a working film backlot that normally opens to the public only during this seasonal event. Visitors interested mainly in rides or organized children’s activities may find the experience less suitable.
There is no fixed tour duration, so guests can explore at their own pace after entering during their booked time slot.
Although Market Lane is heated and a clear-roofed tent shelters the Town Square performance area, the event remains outdoors and operates in rain or snow. Waterproof footwear and warm layers are advisable.
Most film streets are paved, but raised curbs, artificial turf and limited ramps can make some areas challenging for wheelchair users.
For photography, an evening visit will make the illuminated decorations more prominent. Families hoping to see Santa should plan around his scheduled appearances.
Advance booking is important, particularly for popular dates. Tickets are non-refundable, although exchanges may be possible with at least 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
What You Need to Know – Merry & Bright at Martini Town 2026
Credit George Malczynski
Movie fans can get a taste of Tinseltown for the holidays at Martini Town, a picture-perfect film set in Langley owned by Martini Film Studios. Visitors to Merry & Bright will have a rare opportunity to access a Hollywood-style film backlot, transformed into a holiday wonderland.
Dates:
- November 20–29: Friday to Sunday
- December 2–13: Wednesday to Sunday
- December 16–31: Daily except Christmas Day
Hours: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. (last entry by 9 p.m.)
Location: Martini Town, 1123 272 Street, Langley, BC.
Admission (plus GST):
- Adults (18+): $24
- Seniors (65+): $20
- Youth (13–17): $18
- Children (6–12): $12
- Children 5 and under: Free
Tickets: Advance online booking only, with timed entry. No tickets sold at the gate.
Parking: Free on-site parking is available but limited. Carpooling is recommended. Street parking on 272 Street is prohibited.
Public transit: No direct service. The nearest Route 503 bus stop is at Fraser Highway and 276 Street. Organizers recommend a taxi or rideshare for the remaining journey because 272 Street has no sidewalks.
Accessibility: Accessible parking and a step-free portable washroom are available. Contact the organizer before booking if you have specific mobility requirements.
Other rules: No pets except service animals. Outside food and beverages are prohibited; empty reusable water bottles are permitted.
I would like to send my family, in Langley, to your celebration. Where do I get tickets? A surprise for Xmas.