HOLIDAY FUN EVENTS
The fun holiday events are now in full swing with a number of my favourite attractions kicking off this weekend including: Festival of Light at Van Dusen Gardens, the Dundarave Festival of Lights, Lights at Lafarge and Noel Surrey and Bright Nights. See my guide to all of these and more, linked above.
THE ICS CHRISTMAS FAIR
Saturday 8:30 am – 1 pm, Immaculate Conception School, West 28th, Vancouver
This is where I will be on Saturday as I chair this annual Christmas Fair. If you are near the Dunbar area this is a lovely fair, open to all, that offers a pancake breakfast, photos with Santa, bake sale, wreath sale, toy and book sale, games room, silent auction and more!
LIGHTS OF HOPE
Saturday-Sunday, St.Paul’s Hospital, Burrard, Vancouver
Experience the brilliance of this year’s Lights of Hope fundraising display at St. Paul’s Hospital!
NORTH POLE EXPRESS
Saturday & Sunday, West Coast Railway Heritage Park, Squamish
The North Pole Express is a fun family Christmas event that takes you on an adventurous and entertaining train ride from the Polar Express Station to the North Pole. Kids of all ages will enjoy the entertainment as you take the train to The North Pole to deliver much needed wrapping paper and bows to Marshall P. Bear, the Polar Bear that is the head of Santa’s workshop. Along the way you and your family will meet all sorts of characters, enjoy cookies, hot chocolate and many activities for the kids. You will eventually find your way to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus for a family photoshoot to preserve your memories of this exciting day.
STEVESTON FESTIVAL OF TREES
Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 5 pm, Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Steveston
Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to Steveston’s annual Festival of Trees. Each year, local merchants and community groups creatively decorate their trees in a friendly competition to win the top vote for favourite tree.
SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 5 pm, Sea to Sky Gondola, Squamish
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 Season. Soar high in the sky (just like Santa himself) from the base of the mountain to the summit for festive activities and decorations, endless views of the wintry landscape, along with hot drinks and a warm bite to eat at the cozy lodge.
GINGERBREAD LANE
Saturday & Sunday, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Burrard St, Vancouver
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 categories: Professional, Amateur, and Secondary School, showcasing a wide range of artistry and imagination for visitors to enjoy.
DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS ‘LET’S DANCE’
Saturday & Sunday multiple showings, Pacific Coliseum
Mickey and pals are rocking the DJ table at Disney On Ice and you’re on the guest list! Feel the electric atmosphere as they remix favorite Disney tunes into colorful worlds. Wish upon a star with Asha as she and Valentino save the Kingdom of Rosas from King Magnifico. Roar with delight as Simba, Timon and Pumbaa step into the spotlight.
FESTIVE FLIGHT RIDE – SOAR WITH SANTA
Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 8 pm, Flyover Canada, Canada Place
Flyover Canada will once again whisk travellers to the glittering, snow-blanketed landscapes of the North Pole with the iconic Soar with Santa experience. Soar with Santa charts a course across Canada towards the Arctic Ocean, where the North Pole welcomes travellers into an epic winter wonderland.
