Spending Christmas or the winter holidays in Vancouver? Create fun, lasting memories by seeing at least one of Vancouver's amazing annual holiday attractions--or see them all. These top five attractions are the "must sees" of the season.
See also: FREE Vancouver Christmas & Holiday Events & Attractions
1. Peak of Christmas - Grouse Mountain
Image Courtesy of Grouse Mountain Resorts Ltd.
Located just 15 minutes north of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is an easily accessible winter wonderland, complete with outdoor ice skating, sleigh rides, reindeer, breakfasts with Santa, and live entertainment, which is why it makes this list of top Vancouver Christmas attractions.
November 24 - December 24, 2012
2. Bright Nights - Stanley Park Christmas Train
Image Courtesy of Tourism Vancouver
The best Vancouver Christmas attraction for younger kids is fun for the whole family, too! At Stanley Park's Bright Nights, over a million twinkly lights transform the forest and the famous Miniature Train into a winter wonderland. Ride the train, visit Santa, see the Parade of Trees, and more at this top Vancouver Christmas attraction for kids and families.
November 28, 2012 - January 2, 2013 (closed December 25)
3. Rogers Santa Claus Parade - Downtown Vancouver
Photo by Greg Descantes
The only Vancouver Christmas attraction that lasts for one-day-only, the Rogers Santa Claus Parade has become a bona fide don't-miss holiday event. The Parade features over 60 marching bands, dance troupes, festive floats and community groups, attracting over 300,000 spectators along its route through downtown Vancouver. Volunteers will also be collecting non-perishable goods for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
4. Festival of Lights - VanDusen Botanical Garden
Image Courtesy of VanDusen Botanical Garden
The gorgeous VanDusen Gardens turn festive with elaborate light decorations, a Candy Cane Tree and a Gingerbread Walk. There are also nightly appearances from Santa, a Dancing Lights show, community choirs, and much more.
December 7, 2012 - January 1, 2013 (closed December 25)
5. The Nutcracker - Downtown Vancouver
Image Courtesy of Ballet BC
Can it be December without The Nutcracker, arguably the most famous and beloved ballet of all time? A close friend of mine makes it an annual tradition to see The Nutcracker with her goddaughter. It's a beautiful way to make memories, dress up in your holiday best and support ballet all at the same time.
December 14 - 16, 2012