It’s the most wonderful time of year again, where the city lights up and the Christmas cheer begins! Amongst the chaos of the holiday season, one of the most magical and inner child-provoking activities has to be exploring the many Christmas light displays around Vancouver. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find yourself in a glittery winter wonderland at some point this season. Whether it be a family outing, a friendly get together with the crew, or a romantic night out, there’s a place for you to explore this Christmas.
Here are some of the options in and around the lower mainland!
Capilano Suspension Bridge – North Shore
Photo Credit: Capilano Suspension Bridge
Open year round, the Capilano Suspension Bridge puts on a spectacular show with its Canyon Lights throughout the holiday season. Along with the suspension bridge, the rest of the park is decorated with tens and thousands of lights and displays. After some exploration, make your way to the craft tent for more Christmas activities! If you’re a local, don’t forget to show your BC licence for a yearly pass for the cost your admission price!
When: November 23 – January 28
Location: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Admission: Admission varies, click here for more information
Lafarge Lake – Coquitlam
This is the lower mainland’s largest free outdoor light celebration. Located in the heart of Coquitlam, take a stroll around the beautiful lake or join in the many free activities! Lafarge Lake can be easily accessed from the Evergreen Line as well.
When: November-January 21
Location: Lafarge Lake, Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Bright Nights Christmas Train – Stanley Park
Vancouver’s beautiful Stanley Park is even more wondrous lit up in twinkling Christmas lights. Take the delightful mini railway through the forest and be taken on a magical Christmas journey, on the Bright Nights Christmas Train.
When: November 30-January 6
Location: Stanley Park, Vancouver
Admission: $6-$12
Grouse Mountain – North Shore
Photo Credit: Grouse Mountain
What gets you into the Christmas spirit than snowy mountains, warm drinks by the fire and the twinkling of Christmas lights on the mountain side? Visit Grouse Mountain for a white Christmas this year! Loaded with different activities, you’re sure to have a great time with friends and family.
When: November 24-January 7
Location: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Admission: Admission varies, click here for more information.
The Winter Solstice Lantern Festival – Vancouver
Do you remember that scene in Disney’s Tangled, where the sky fills with glowing lanterns and you get all warm and fuzzy inside? You too can experience that in three different locations around downtown Vancouver. With the choice of Yaletown, Chinatown or Granville Island, the city will come alive for the Winter Solstice celebrations with a night full of entertainment and activities to experience.
When: December 21
Locations: Gathering Place Community Centre (Yaletown), Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden (Chinatown), Various locations in Granville Island
Admission: Admission varies, click here for more information.
VanDusen Festival of Lights – Vancouver
Photo Credit: The Georgia Straight
One of the most beautiful spots here in Vancouver, VanDusen Botanical Gardens puts on a spectacular light show every year, with over one million twinkling Christmas lights on display. Your ticket also includes a magical carousel ride!
When: December 1-January 7
Location: 5151 Oak Street, Vancouver
Admission: Admission varies, click here for more information.
So make your plans, grab a cup of hot chocolate and set aside an evening to let your inner child run free and enjoy the spirit of the holiday season under a blanket of twinkling wonder!