With the temperature cooling down to single digits and lights hanging from the trees that line the streets of Vancouver, you can see that the holiday season is just around the corner. Whether you’re visiting for a vacation or a local Vancouverite, there are always new places to discover for holiday shopping! We have compiled a list of places to check out in the Greater Vancouver area that will surely help you knock a few items off your shopping lists!
Malls
Pacific Centre
Since its opening in 1971, Pacific Centre provides its shoppers with a comfortable shopping experience as it spans for 4 blocks and is completely underground! Vancouver can be a little rainy and snowy during the cold winter season, so this is a great place to go for a little heat and shopping. Make sure you check out some of their notable department stores, The Bay and Nordstrom!
Location: 701 West Georgia Street, Vancouver
Hours: 10:00am-7:00pm (Monday-Tuesday), 10:00am-9:00pm (Wednesday-Thursday), 8:00am-9:00pm (Friday), 10:00am-7:00pm (Saturday), 11:00am-6:00pm (Sunday)
Park Royal Shopping Centre
Located in the North Shore, Park Royal has been operating for more than 60 years! With over 280 stores and services within the mall, you won’t be disappointed with their selections. We suggest checking out the stores before or after visiting some attractions such as the Capilano Suspension Bridge or Grouse Mountain!
Location: 2002 Park Royal South, West Vancouver
Hours: 10:00am-7:00pm (Monday-Tuesday), 10:00am-9:00pm (Wednesday-Friday), 9:30am-7:00pm (Saturday), 11:00am-6:00pm (Sunday)
McArthurGlen Designer Outlets
Are you in a hurry to pick up a few things before catching your flight? Luckily for you, McArthurGlen is the newest and closest shopping outlet to the airport. With brands such as Nike and Coach, you’ll get the best deals in town. Don’t forget to also stop by their food court, it is loaded with a variety of new and interesting foods to try (ever heard of a churro sandwich?)!
Location: 1000-7899 Templeton Station Road, Richmond
Hours: 10:00am-9:00pm (Monday-Saturday), 10:00am-7:00pm (Sunday)
Shopping Districts
Robson Street
One of the busiest shopping districts in Vancouver, Robson Street offers a great selection of stores and local boutiques. While you’re walking down Robson Street, make sure to check out the beautifully decorated trees and different restaurants.
Granville Street
Just a few blocks from the Vancouver Lookout, Granville Street is the perfect place to visit for some Christmas shopping! Not only does this shopping district offer access to Pacific Centre, it also holds the name as one of the most popular entertainment districts in Downtown Vancouver. It’s never a dull moment on Granville Street!
Gastown
Gastown is one of the oldest parts of our city and acts as one of the best places for souvenir shopping! As you walk down historic Gastown, you will see many local boutiques, art museums, and restaurants. Make sure you walk all the way down to visit the statue of Gassy Jack, the man who built the first bar in Vancouver.
Christmas Markets
Vancouver Christmas Market
The Vancouver Christmas Market will be celebrating its 7th year at Jack Poole Plaza! This German-inspired market is a great place to visit while you’re in the downtown area. It is easily accessible by public transit (5 minute walk from Waterfront Station) and is kid friendly as well. If you’re already in the Christmas spirit, make sure to ride the Christmas Carousel and browse through the different vendors now!
Dates: November 26 – December 31 (Closed on December 25)
Location: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place
Hours: 11:00am-9:00pm DAILY, 11:00am-6:00pm (Christmas Eve)
Enchant: Christmas Light Maze & Market
Decorated with over 55 000 square ft. of sculptures and lights, Enchant is the world’s largest Christmas light maze. Besides its amazing light maze, there will also be over 50 vendors and food trucks, entertainment, and great photo opportunities. Grab a couple a friends and head over now – tickets are selling out fast!
Dates: November 25 – December 31*
Location: West 1st Avenue & Crowe Street, Vancouver
Hours: Hours may vary, click here for more information