It’s the most marvelous time of the year, and there are so many holly and jolly Vancouver holiday events to check out around the city.
But there’s no need to blow your budget this holiday season! Get festive with our list of 21 free and cheap things to do around town, including Christmas lights, ice skating, artisan markets, and more.
Be sure to check out our listed section for more fantastic things happening around town.
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Lights at Lafarge
What: Lights at Lafarge, metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display, is back again for another holiday season.
The annual tradition will illuminate Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam throughout the season, with over 100,000 twinkling lights to enjoy until the end of February.Guests of all ages can explore the outdoor display that wraps its way entirely around the lake, leading them on a 1.2 km loop through themed zones.
When: Friday, Nov. 28, until February 2026
Time: Nightly from 4 to 11 p.m.
Where: Town Center Park – 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
cost: Free
what: The holidays in Vancouver just wouldn’t be as radiant without the Lights of Hope, and this year is kicking off with the return of the popular fireworks display.
St. Paul’s Foundation’s massive light display outside of St. Paul’s Hospital has been an annual Christmastime tradition and fundraising campaign since 1998.More than 100,000 lights and hundreds of shining stars recognizing the support of generous donors will be officially switched on thursday,Nov.27,and fireworks will commemorate the occasion on opening night.
When: Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025 (lights will be on display until early January)
time: 6 to 8 p.m. for kickoff, nightly throughout the holiday season
Where: St.Paul’s Hospital – 1081 Burrard St., Vancouver
Admission: Free; donations can be made online
What: A returning pop-up holiday market in Vancouver this week is ready to help you treat your loved ones to unique gifts while supporting the city’s burgeoning entrepreneurs.
Employ to Empower’s Make Change Market, sponsored by B.C. Rentals, is happening on Thursday, Nov. 20, at Heritage Hall on Main Street.
The free event features creative gift ideas and giveaways, and offers an chance to meet low-income entr
Metro Vancouver Holiday events Guide 2025
Table of Contents
- Metro Vancouver Holiday events Guide 2025
- Holiday Cheer: Surrey Santa Parade & Fleurs de Villes Noël Light Up the Season
- Gingerbread Lane Returns to Vancouver for its 33rd Year
- Holiday fun in Metro Vancouver: Skate, Sparkle, and Celebrate!
- Shipyards Skate Plaza – North Vancouver
- Bright Walk – White Rock
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Metro Vancouver! Here’s a guide to some festive events happening this season:
The Christmas Store at Potters
What: Delight in a massive holiday-themed paradise with a huge array of décor items, stocking stuffers, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Every year, the garden centre transforms its 28,000-square-foot space into a yuletide wonderland.
When: Now until Dec. 24, 2025
Where: 19158 48th Ave., Surrey
Admission: Free
the Shipyards Christmas Market
What: Explore dozens of artisan stalls, food vendors, and live performers, as well as visits with Santa, at this festive market.
When: Friday, nov. 28 to Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025
time: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (opening day), 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday to Thursday), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Friday to Sunday), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Dec. 22 and 23), 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.(Dec. 24)
Where: The Shipyards – 125 Victory Ship Way, north Vancouver
Cost: Free
The Polygon Gallery Holiday Shop
What: Discover a huge selection of unique gifts by independent makers and artists at this annual holiday shop. Enjoy weekly interactive activities for guests.
When: Now until Sunday, Jan.4, 2026
time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (monday to Wednesday, friday to Sunday), 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Thursday)
Where: The Polygon Gallery – 101 Carrie cates Ct., North Vancouver
cost: Free
Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum
What: Step back in time and enjoy the magical atmosphere of festive lights and traditional decorations in this 1920s-era village. Enjoy seasonal entertainment, demonstrations, activities, and flavorful food.
When: Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, until Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 (closed Dec. 24 and 25)
Time: Various times
Where: Burnaby Village Museum – 6501 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby
Admission: Free, Carousel rides $2.62 plus tax
Holiday Cheer: Surrey Santa Parade & Fleurs de Villes Noël Light Up the Season
get ready for a festive season filled with dazzling displays and community spirit! Here’s a look at two exciting events happening in and around Vancouver this December:
Surrey Santa parade of Lights
Lace up your skates and head to Surrey Civic Plaza for a magical experience! The annual Surrey santa Parade of Lights will illuminate Cloverdale Town Centre with seasonal floats and stunning lights.
* When: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. (holiday hours of 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. apply on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing day, and New Year’s Day)
* Where: Surrey Civic Plaza – 13450 104 Ave., Surrey
* Cost: Free for all ages. Skate rentals are also available for a fee.
Fleurs de Villes Noël
From December 5th to 15th, experience the beauty of Fleurs de Villes Noël in Downtown Vancouver. This stunning activation creates a “floral art trail,” showcasing the creativity of Vancouver’s top florists and local businesses, all inspired by the Twelve Days of Christmas.
* What: Fleurs de Villes Noël
* When: Friday, Dec. 5 to Sunday,Dec. 15, 2025
* Where: various locations in Downtown Vancouver
* Cost: Free
Don’t forget to bring donations to support local causes at the Surrey Santa Parade! These events promise to bring joy and festive cheer to all ages.
Gingerbread Lane Returns to Vancouver for its 33rd Year
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive