Christmas is a time for traditions; new ones are created and old traditions maintained. Christmas activities in Vancouver have become much loved over the years and are an annual tradition for many families. The real beauty of these activities is the whole family can enjoy them.
Van Dusen Gardens Festival of Lights
The piece de resistance of this beautiful Christmas experience is the Dancing Lights show, a flickering light show set to a background of powerful music. Walking through the thousands of Christmas lights, hot chocolate in hand, a visit with Santa and choirs singing beautiful music makes this a truly enchanting Christmas tradition.
The event begins on December 11 and runs through January 3, 2010. It is closed on Christmas Day.
Bright Nights in Stanley Park
An area of Stanley Park is lit up by over two million Christmas lights, with a delightful array of Christmas scenes on display. Donations are collected for the BC Professional Fire Fighters' Burn Fund. Off-duty firefighters donate their time each year to help set up the displays, and a two-dollar donation is suggested for the Burn Fund. The Bright Nights began its twelfth season on November 27th and will continue until January 2nd.
Take the Christmas train through the forest, decorated in fabulous Christmas displays; it really is a sight to behold. Tickets can be bought ahead of time for the train which is always very busy, but well worth the wait in line.
Karaoke Christmas with the Vancouver Trolley Company
The Vancouver Trolley Company is offering a Karaoke Christmas Lights tour, taking in both the Bright Nights and Festival of Lights at the Van Dusen Gardens. The trolley buses will be festively decorated and will be set up with karaoke machines for guests to really get in the Christmas groove.
The trolley buses are replica, San Francisco-style and are usually used for summer sightseeing tours in the city.
The price of the tour includes admission to Van Dusen and a donation to the Burn Fund and the tours operate from December 11-24.
The Peak of Christmas on Grouse Mountain
Christmas in the snow, atop Grouse Mountain with the city of Vancouver laid out below is the epitome of a winter wonderland. Although a bit more expensive than some other offerings, the value and extent of available activities makes the admission worth it.
Ranging from $37.95 for adults to $13.95 for children 5 to 2 (free tots under 4), the ticket includes the gondola ride up to Grouse Mountain, outdoor ice skating, sleigh rides, and snow shoeing. The view, as always, on a clear day is priceless. Whether a resident or visitor to the city, the Grouse Mountain experience should not be missed.
Free Christmas Sights in Vancouver
There are some great Christmas activities that don't cost a thing.
- For just the cost of gas, a light tour of spectacular homeowner light displays is fun for all the family. Keep an eye on the local newspaper which usually provides an address list of houses worth a visit.
- The ever popular Carol Ships Parade of Lights is in its 49th year and runs from December 4th to the 23rd. The ships can be seen from a number of prime shore side locations throughout the Lower Mainland. The display has grown from just one ship to over 50 participating boats.
- Stroll the downtown core and check out Vancouver's Christmas tree by the Art Gallery. The lighting is due to take place on December 8th.
- The Four Seasons Hotel and Pacific Centre Mall host the Festival of Trees, a display of many beautifully decorated Christmas trees. It is a fundraiser for BC Children's Hospital Foundation and for a $2 donation, children and adults can vote for their favourite tree.
There are many options for families to get out and enjoy Christmas in one of the world's most beautiful cities – Vancouver. Check out the Vancouver Santa Claus Parade, Bright Nights in Stanley Park, Grouse Mountain and other free Christmas sights in the city.
Lorah Delaney - Lorah is a native of Vancouver, British Columbia. She has a degree in Physical Education from the University of British Columbia and a ...
