Disclaimer: Event dates may change. Please confirm all dates and details directly with the official organizers before attending.
December in Metro Vancouver is a magical time when the city transforms into a winter wonderland of lights, music, and festive cheer. From world-class ballet performances and high-energy hockey games to cozy holiday teas and bustling craft markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you are looking for family-friendly activities, a night out with friends, or unique workshops to get creative, our curated list of the best things to do in Vancouver in December 2025 has you covered.
Arts & Culture
VanDusen Festival of Lights
Date: November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Venue/place: VanDusen Botanical Garden
Description:
Experience one of Vancouver’s most beloved holiday traditions. The VanDusen Festival of Lights transforms 15 acres of botanical gardens into a twinkling wonderland with over one million lights. Visitors can stroll through themed areas, enjoy the famous dancing lights on Livingstone Lake, and grab a warm treat from various food vendors.
Price: Approx. $15–$29 CAD
Link: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/festival-of-lights.aspx
Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Date: December 18–21, 2025
Venue/place: Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Description:
Celebrate the holidays with Goh Ballet’s spectacular production of The Nutcracker. This heartwarming rendition of the classic fairy tale features a live orchestra, stunning costumes, and guest appearances by principal dancers from world-renowned companies. It is a perfect cultural outing for ballet enthusiasts and families alike.
Price: Varies by seat selection
Link: https://www.gohnutcracker.com/
VSO Traditional Christmas
Date: December 21, 2025
Venue/place: The Orpheum
Description:
Join the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra for a heartwarming concert of carols and Christmas classics. Set in the historic and ornate Orpheum Theatre, this annual favourite features special guests and audience sing-alongs that are sure to spark the holiday spirit.
Price: Varies by seat selection
Link: https://www.vancouversymphony.ca/
Music & Nightlife
An ABBA Christmas with ABRA Cadabra
Date: December 6, 2025
Venue/place: Massey Theatre, New Westminster
Description:
Dance the night away to ABBA’s greatest hits with a holiday twist. This tribute band delivers high-energy performances of classics like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia,” infused with festive flair. It is a must-attend event for music lovers seeking vibrant nightlife and nostalgia in Metro Vancouver this December.
Price: Approx. $40–$60 CAD
Link: https://www.masseytheatre.com/
CONTACT Winter Music Festival
Date: December 26–27, 2025
Venue/place: Pacific Coliseum
Description:
As Western Canada’s largest indoor electronic music festival, CONTACT brings world-class DJs and producers to Vancouver for two nights of high-energy performances. It is the ultimate post-Christmas party for electronic dance music fans looking to close out the year with a bang.
Price: Passes start approx. $180+ CAD
Link: https://www.ticketleader.ca/events/detail/contact25
The Funk Hunters: Funk The Halls
Date: December 20, 2025
Venue/place: Commodore Ballroom
Description:
A local holiday tradition, “Funk The Halls” returns to the legendary Commodore Ballroom. The Funk Hunters bring their signature blend of electronic music, funk, and soul for a night that promises to keep the dance floor moving. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and a devoted local crowd.
Price: Check official ticketing for current prices
Link: https://www.commodoreballroom.com/
Sports
Vancouver Canucks vs. Utah Mammoth
Date: December 5, 2025
Venue/place: Rogers Arena
Description:
Catch the Vancouver Canucks in action as they take on the Utah Mammoth on home ice. Experience the roar of the crowd at Rogers Arena and enjoy a thrilling night of NHL hockey. It’s a great way to support the home team during the winter season.
Price: Varies by seat selection
Link: https://www.nhl.com/canucks/
Neighbourhood Skate Days
Date: December 7, 2025
Venue/place: PNE Agrodome/Forum (Check specific building on PNE site)
Description:
The PNE hosts special community skating events during the winter. Grab your skates and enjoy a fun, active day with the family. It is a fantastic opportunity to get moving indoors and enjoy the community atmosphere at one of Vancouver’s most historic venues.
Price: Free (Registration required)
Link: https://www.pne.ca/events/
Family & Kids
PNE Winter Fair
Date: December 19, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Venue/place: PNE Hastings Park
Description:
The PNE Winter Fair returns with dazzling light displays, an indoor ice skating rink, and the Holiday Market. Families can enjoy live entertainment, wander through the “Sparkle in the Park,” and indulge in classic fair food with a festive twist. It is a full day of holiday entertainment.
Price: $15–$25 CAD (Approx.)
Link: https://www.pne.ca/winter-fair/
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
Date: November 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Venue/place: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Description:
Cross the world-famous suspension bridge as it glows with multicolored lights above the Capilano River. The park features the “Treetops Adventure” lit up end-to-end and the “Cliffwalk” offering stunning views of the illuminated canyon. It is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city during December.
Price: Regular admission rates apply
Link: https://www.capbridge.com/events/canyon-lights/
Tea with Santa
Date: December 20, 2025
Venue/place: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Description:
Treat your little ones to a magical “Tea with Santa” at the historic Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. This family-centric event includes a buffet of kid-friendly favorites, festive decor, and a chance for children to meet Santa Claus himself in a luxurious setting.
Price: Adults $99+, Children $50+ (Reservations required)
Link: https://www.fairmont-hotel-vancouver.com/events/tea-with-santa/
Food & Drinks
Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea
Date: November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Venue/place: Notch8 at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Description:
Indulge in a decadent holiday-themed afternoon tea. The culinary team at Notch8 transforms the tea room into a winter wonderland, serving savory finger sandwiches, buttery scones, and intricate holiday pastries. It is an elegant way to warm up and relax during the busy shopping season.
Price: $79+ per person
Link: https://www.fairmont-hotel-vancouver.com/dine/winter-wonderland-afternoon-tea/
Markets & Shopping
Photo: u/Chewbacca12345
Vancouver Christmas Market
Date: November 13 – December 24, 2025
Venue/place: Jack Poole Plaza
Description:
Vancouver’s most iconic holiday market returns to Jack Poole Plaza. Shop from over 110 artisan huts offering unique gifts, decorations, and treats. Enjoy authentic German-inspired food (like bratwurst and glühwein), carousel rides, and live entertainment in a festive outdoor village setting.
Price: $7–$20 CAD
Link: https://www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com/
The Shipyards Christmas Market
Date: November 28 – December 24, 2025
Schedule
November 28 – 11:00 to 22:00
November 29 – December 21
Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 to 21:00
Friday to Saturday – 11:00 to 22:00
December 22 and 23 – 11:00 to 22:00
December 24 – 11:00 to 20:00
Venue/place: The Shipyards, North Vancouver
Description:
Browse local crafts, food vendors, and holiday decor in a festive waterfront setting. This market often features live music, ice skating, and family activities, making it a top shopping event in Metro Vancouver. It is a fantastic place to find local treasures while enjoying views of the downtown skyline.
Price: Free admission
Link: https://shipyardschristmasmarket.com/
Coquitlam Christmas Night Market
Date: December 12–13 & 20, 2025
Venue/place: Evergreen Cultural Centre, Coquitlam
Description:
Discover handmade goods, seasonal treats, and entertainment at this vibrant indoor market. Located right next to the “Lights at Lafarge” display, it is perfect for an evening of holiday shopping with a community vibe. Support local artisans and find unique stocking stuffers you won’t see in malls.
Price: $2–$5 CAD
Link: https://evergreenculturalcentre.ca/
Winter Indigenous Artisans Market
Date: December 6, 2025
Venue/place: Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Description:
Shop authentic Indigenous art, jewelry, and crafts from local creators at this special one-day market. It offers a unique opportunity to purchase meaningful gifts while supporting Indigenous artists and adding cultural diversity to your December shopping experience.
Price: Free admission
Link: https://www.billreidgallery.ca/
Workshops & Learning
Holiday Wreath Workshop
Date: December 6, 2025
Venue/place: Kado Flower Studios (Check site for studio location)
Description:
Get hands-on this season by creating your own festive wreath. Kado Flower Studios offers a guided workshop where you can design a beautiful, natural wreath using fresh winter greens and modern accents. It is a relaxing and creative way to prepare your home for the holidays.
Price: Approx. $100+ (Includes materials)
Link: https://www.kadoflowerstudios.com/workshops
Classic Wreath Workshop by Flower House
Date: December 13, 2025
Venue/place: La Fabrique St-George Winery
Description:
Combine creativity with a glass of wine at this popular workshop. Participants learn the art of wreath-making using sustainable techniques and local foliage. The event is held in a winery, adding a cozy and social element to the learning experience.
Price: Check official listing for tickets
Link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/classic-wreath-workshop-tickets-1901776999199
Movie Premieres
Avatar: Fire and Ash
Date: December 19, 2025
Venue/place: Theatres everywhere
Description:
James Cameron takes audiences back to Pandora in this highly anticipated third installment of the Avatar franchise. Fire and Ash introduces a new clan of Na’vi known as the “Ash People,” exploring darker themes and new volcanic regions of the planet. Expect groundbreaking visual effects and an emotional continuation of the Sully family’s saga.
Price: Approx. $16–$25 CAD
Link: https://www.avatar.com/
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants
Date: December 19, 2025
Venue/place: Theatres everywhere
Description:
Pack up the kids for a deep-sea adventure with everyone’s favorite sponge. In this new theatrical release, SpongeBob travels to the depths of the ocean to face off against the Flying Dutchman’s ghost. It promises the series’ signature humor, mixing animation with real-world elements for a fun family outing.
Price: Approx. $14–$20 CAD
Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23572848/
Book of the Month
Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts
Date: Released November 2025
Venue/place: Bookstores and libraries everywhere
Description:
Margaret Atwood’s highly anticipated memoir weaves personal anecdotes with broader reflections on life, literature, and society. As a Canadian icon, Atwood delivers witty and profound insights perfect for December reading. This book explores themes of creativity, aging, and cultural impact, making it an engaging choice for book lovers seeking a thoughtful holiday read.
Price: $25–$35 CAD
Link: https://margaretatwood.ca/
Video Game of the Month
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Date: December 4, 2025
Venue/place: Nintendo Switch
Description:
After years of anticipation, Samus Aran returns in a massive first-person adventure. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond takes players to a new cosmic frontier with stunning graphics and immersive gameplay. It is arguably the biggest game release of the year for Nintendo fans and a perfect way to spend the holiday break.
Price: $79.99 CAD
Link: https://www.nintendo.com/en-ca/store/products/metroid-prime-4-beyond-nintendo-switch-2-edition-switch-2/