Ava GabouryThinking of spending the holidays in fun Vancouver? Great choice!
But hold your sleigh bells, because as the initial thrill settles, you might start feeling overwhelmed with the plethora of activities to do in the city.
But don’t worry! As a wish whispered to Santa, we’re here to make all your jolly dreams come true with this curated guide, offering a glimpse of the festivities in Vancouver through the eyes of a local.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a sea of shimmering lights and delectable Christmas specials, because we’re here to help you unwrap Vancouver’s holiday magic.
Here’s a foolproof guide to ensure the best holiday in the city, complete with tips on what to do and where to stay, eat, drink, and shop!
- What to Do in Vancouver During Christmas
- Ride the FlyOver Canada
- Catch the VanDusen Festival of Lights
- Grab some tasty hot chocolate at Lindt Chocolate Shop
- Experience the mesmerizing light display at Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Watch Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker
- Experience the Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency Vancouver
- Be enchanted by the magical world of Fleurs de Villes NOËL
- Where to Stay in Vancouver During Christmas
- Where to Eat in Vancouver During Christmas
- Where to Drink in Vancouver During Christmas
- Where to Shop in Vancouver During Christmas
What to Do in Vancouver During Christmas
Ride the FlyOver Canada
Address: 999 Canada Pl #201, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada
Phone: +1 855-463-4822
FlyOver Canada is an immersive flying theatre attraction that whisks you away to magnificent sights all over the globe without ever leaving your seat.
During the Christmas season, they have special holiday-themed offerings where you might even see Santa and a special appearance by a few friendly elves (Will Ferrell not included, unfortunately).
While they have yet to announce what they’re brewing for the next holiday season, we’re sure it’s going to be exciting!
Catch the VanDusen Festival of Lights
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-257-8463
VanDusen Botanical Garden is an enchanting attraction filled with a variety of plant species across its 55-acre wonderland. Think of where fairies have their tea party, and the whimsical beauty of this garden most likely springs to mind.
During the holiday season, this spot becomes an even more renowned attraction for the Festival of Lights – an exhilarating event where a million lights illuminate this oasis.
It’s the perfect recipe for a truly magical night.
Grab some tasty hot chocolate at Lindt Chocolate Shop
Address: 455 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2B3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-602-1415
Is it really Christmas if you haven’t had a delicious cup of hot chocolate? Of course not!
Known for its decadent Swiss chocolate, the Lindt Chocolate Shop also offers a tasty cup of this holiday classic beverage. It has an addicting creamy consistency with a deep and sweet flavor profile, making it a treat to indulge in every sip.
You’ll wonder how you ever spent Christmas without it!
Experience the mesmerizing light display at Capilano Suspension Bridge
Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-985-7474
During Christmas in Vancouver, the natural beauty of Capilano Suspension Bridge is transformed into a magical wonderland filled with the mesmerizing glow of the light display.
As you stroll along the bridge, suspended 70 meters above ground, you’re welcomed with a charming embrace of a kaleidoscope of colors, creating an enchanting ambiance that adds to the magic of the holiday season.
Whether it’s a cherished family tradition or your first time watching the illuminated displays at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience that will leave you spellbound.
While this destination is especially popular among couples, families will also enjoy this festive treat!
Watch Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Address: 2345 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-872-4014
The Nutcracker stands as a ballet classic, especially cherished during the holiday season. Witnessing this timeless production is sure to bring life and enchantment into the beloved holiday tale.
Luckily, if you’re in Vancouver this time of year, you’ll be able to watch Goh Ballet’s enchanting rendition – a captivating performance guaranteed to win the hearts of audiences of all ages.
Beyond its nostalgic charm, we were also captivated by the whole production itself. The intricate set transforms the audience into a world beyond the proscenium, while the elaborate costumes complete the fantasy.
And with the choreography as the magical cherry on top, the experience will truly leave you in awe.
Experience the Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency Vancouver
Address: 655 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-1234
Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency is a delightful spectacle that invokes the holiday spirit with its ornate and whimsical gingerbread creations.
Hyatt Regency has been hosting this beloved tradition for a few decades now, making it a well-loved annual event by many locals.
While walking in the lobby adorned by equally fascinating Christmas displays, you’ll be welcomed by intricately crafted gingerbread houses, each made by professional cooks and even those who are novices in the craft.
Themes differ each year, so we’re quite keen on learning what they have in store this year!
The icing on top? It’s totally free to see this sugary spectacle!
Be enchanted by the magical world of Fleurs de Villes NOËL
Fleurs de Villes NOËL promises extravagant floral displays crafted by local florists, as a way to foster the Christmas spirit in the city.
By observing one display after the other, you’re immediately immersed in their whimsical charm – a delightful reminder of just how magical Christmas can be.
You can peruse the floral trail at your own pace with the help of their self-guided tour on their website.
Here’s a local tip: to appreciate the blooms in their full glory, make sure to visit them during the daytime!
Where to Stay in Vancouver During Christmas
Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown
Address: 1128 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6E 4R5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-684-1128
Pricing: $$$
Website
Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle is one of the most convenient locations you can stay in the city during the Christmas season.
Located just a 4-minute walk from the Vancouver Christmas Market, you don’t have to worry about making your way to one of the most popular holiday events.
Additionally, it’s situated just on the outskirts of downtown, ensuring most renowned attractions are within easy reach.
The rooms at Marriott Pinnacle are also equally enticing. They’re clean, sleek, and minimalistic, enhancing the hotel’s overall charm.
Moreover, guests can choose between the water views or the city views, allowing them to wake up to their preferred scenery.
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Address: 900 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-684-3131
Pricing: $$
Website
Fairmont Hotel has a longstanding and enchanting Christmas experience that leaves guests enthralled by the dazzling light displays, ensuring they really feel the holiday spirit.
From the lobby to other areas of the hotel, the decorations will remind you that it’s Christmas! – just in case you forget.
That said, this hotel is mesmerizing all year round. The rooms, adorned with white and a pop of blue, exude a welcoming and homey vibe, allowing you to focus on relaxation after a day of exploring.
Granville Island Hotel
Address: 1253 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1604-683-7373
Pricing: $$
Nestled on the bustling attraction that is Granville Island, this charming hotel offers a picturesque escape with its cozy and homey atmosphere.
This is the ideal location if you want to fully immerse yourself in the fun festivities of Granville Island, as it’s in close proximity to a lot of its exciting events.
Other than that, guests can also easily access rows of restaurants, art galleries, cafes, and other Vancouver’s delightful offerings. In short, there’s no limit to the exciting things one can do in the area.
Where to Eat in Vancouver During Christmas
ARC Restaurant
Address: 900 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-691-1818
Pricing: $$$
During the holiday season, ARC Restaurant offers a delightful and unforgettable feast you won’t help but devour as soon as you lay your eyes on it.
While they might have something different in store this year, last year’s offerings include an irresistible bottomless brunch and a delectable four-course meal for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Oh, and by the way, the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel is different from the aforementioned Fairmont Hotel, so be sure to keep that in mind.
Honey Salt
Address: 39 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5E7, Canada
Phone: +1 778-370-8200
Pricing: $$
Honey Salt is a stylish locale, boasting ample space that’s perfect for big groups. You can bring the whole family with you during Christmas day without worrying about cramped spaces.
For a few years now, they’ve hosted a well-received event where people can decorate their own gingerbread houses. It’s a fun experience for the whole family, inviting everyone to get creative and have fun.
After all, that’s what Christmas is about, right?
On regular days, they’re also a popular brunch spot known for their spectacular eggs benny.
Forage Restaurant
Address: 1300 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1C5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-661-1400
Pricing: $$
Forage Restaurant is a culinary oasis, renowned for its creativity-infused plates featuring locally sourced ingredients, ensuring nothing but the freshest meals.
In 2023, they offered a special three-course meal for Christmas Day and it was nothing short of phenomenal.
The smoked boneless fraser valley pork rack we had for our entrée was unforgettable, boasting a rich and savory flavor with an undeniable smokiness.
The exterior was delightfully caramelized, which added to our overall delight.
While we have yet to hear what they plan on serving this year, we have high hopes considering their perfect track record!
Showcase Restaurant and Bar
Address: 1122 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6E 4J6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-639-4040
Pricing: $$
Showcase Restaurant and Bar is a charming gastronomic retreat that focuses on local delights and offers diverse options, promising you a delicious adventure.
We’re particularly enamored by their salmon dishes – a surprising concoction teeming with a flavorful punch.
The chicken wings were equally delightful. Though we believe you can’t mess up this classic chicken dish, they seem to elevate the experience with a harmonious combination of herbs and spices.
Order this one with a glass of cold beer – you won’t regret it.
Where to Drink in Vancouver During Christmas
Botanist
Address: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-695-5500
Pricing: $$$
Botanist is a hip hangout spot that showcases a bright and airy sun-soaked interior. The menu mainly focuses on the tasty Canadian classics with the star of the show being the creative cocktails and sumptuous wine bottles.
They have a wide range of options for both, so feel free to explore. After all, it’s Christmas, so there’s no such thing as one too many glasses!
If you want a foolproof guide to the best drinks available, here are some exciting recommendations that only our readers will know about: the beekeeper, with its sweet and earthy flavor, and the sudachi girl, with its refreshing and herbal twist.
H Tasting Lounge
Address: 1601 Bayshore Dr., Vancouver, BC V6G 2V4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-691-6962
Pricing: $$
H Tasting Lounge invites any foodie with a penchant for sophisticated flavor profiles. This exciting destination boasts a short, yet well-curated cocktail menu that will have you ordering one glass after another as if it were a fruit punch.
If you want a burst of different flavors you never knew went well together, order yourself a cà phê culture – a caffeine-fueled alcoholic drink that comes with a bold and complex taste.
Meanwhile, if you’re seeking something with layers and layers of flavor that unfold as you take a sip, you’re sure to be delighted by the galicia coast.
Want something far more adventurous? In defence of carrot cake is your guy.
This surprising beverage has hints of spice, citrus, and creaminess. Even though you feel like you already know what you’re in for, this drink will still surprise you.
Reflections
Address: 801 W Georgia St 4th Floor, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-673-7043
Pricing: $$$$
Reflections is an upscale establishment located on the rooftop of Rosewood Hotel Georgia. It’s as romantic as it is enchanting, making it perfect for intimate dining or drinking.
The bite-sized delights and impeccably crafted cocktails are among the top things they’re renowned for, other than the delightful ambiance, of course.
The cocktail menu is short, but it promises several classic concoctions. Expect to see Moscow mule, sangria, and gin & tonic on the list. Additionally, they offer festive cocktails during the holidays, so stay tuned for that!
By the way, some of their cocktails come in Santa-designed cups, adding to the Christmas spirit.
The Cascade Room
Address: 2616 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-709-8650
Pricing: $$
The Cascade Room is a vibrant hotspot that focuses on West Coast classics. They’re quite known for their extensive cocktail options, offering an unbeatable array of flavors.
Their classic cocktails really pack a punch. For example, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a standout, boasting complex flavors with hints of citrus, sweetness, tartness, and refreshing crispness.
Surely that’s enough to awaken even the dead! They even have cocktails on tap with the spiced sangria effortlessly stealing the spotlight.
Where to Shop in Vancouver During Christmas
Vancouver Christmas Market
Address: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3G3, Canada
Vancouver Christmas Market is one of the most sought-after events in the city, occurring annually in the heart of the bustling downtown.
Its ambiance perfectly captures the spirit of the Christmas season with its enchanting light decorations, festive music, and overall mesmerizing feel.
As you take a lovely stroll around the buzzing market, you’ll be greeted by an array of stalls selling a delightful assortment of goods.
From local artisanal crafts to traditional German goods, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and discover.
Aside from the lively market, you can also expect live entertainment in the form of carolers, musicians, and such.
It’s safe to say one’s Christmas in Vancouver is incomplete without the Vancouver Christmas Market.
PNE Winter Fair
Feel how the spirit of Christmas comes alive in Vancouver by visiting the PNE Winter Fair – a festive event that brings together a diverse crowd. This jolly fair offers a multitude of exciting experiences, perfect for all ages to enjoy.
Spectators have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an assortment of well-loved Christmas traditions such as watching the illumination to enjoying carnival rides, ice skating, and of course, holiday shopping.
Visitors last year had the chance to witness an exciting live performance of The Nutcracker and The Magic of Santa. While they still have to announce the exciting live entertainment this year, we’re sure it’s going to be as fun as the last!
Shipyards Artisan Christmas Market
Shipyards Artisan Christmas Market is another vibrant Christmas event in the lovely Vancouver.
In addition to spreading Christmas cheer, this festive gathering also embodies community spirit, with local vendors coming together to share their talents.
Visitors can expect an exciting variety of products including gourmet foods, handcrafted jewelry, delectable chocolates, and such.
One can never predict the full extent of offerings in this Christmas Market because there’s something delightful to discover each time. But you’re assured of unique discoveries that you take home with you or give as a gift to a loved one.
Teeming with a lot of local offerings, This one’s perfect for visitors who want a glimpse of how Vancouverites celebrate Christmas in the city.
Who knows? You might even catch us dancing to the fun live performances!
Granville Island Public Market
Address: Public Market, 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-666-6655
Granville Island Public Market is a popular establishment with a dynamic energy all year round. During the holiday season, it transforms into an even more bustling hub brimming with Christmas spirit.
Visitors who explore the market will have the chance to go on an exciting foodie adventure of a lifetime. Here, one can get a bite of artisanal chocolates and fresh seafood, while gulping a delicious bottle of cider.
After grabbing a bite to eat, you can also scour the market for the perfect holiday gift. From unique goods to locally crafted treasures, there’s something to delight every loved one on your list, helping you finish your holiday shopping with ease.
