Lower Lonsdale Lights Up! Your Guide to The Shipyards Christmas Market
Looking for a festive experience with a distinct, European flair? You don’t have to cross the ocean—just hop the Seabus! The Shipyards Christmas Market in North Vancouver is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and free Christmas activities in Vancouver‘s Lower Mainland. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Vancouver skyline and the North Shore mountains, this market offers a festive, waterfront experience you won’t want to miss.
🎁 The Shipyards Market Magic: What to Explore
Inspired by classic European Christmas markets, the Shipyards market is a vibrant, inclusive event offering something for everyone.
- 100+ Vendors: Wander through charming wooden stalls filled with over 140 rotating vendors, offering everything from unique artisanal crafts and holiday gifts to local BC goods. It’s the perfect place to find a truly special, one-of-a-kind present.
- Festive Food & Drink: Indulge in traditional European holiday treats! Look out for classic German bratwursts, mulled wine (Glühwein), hot cocoa, and, new for 2025, Bavarian-style crispy pork knuckles from vendors like Haxen Haus.
- The Shipyards Skate Plaza: The region’s largest outdoor skating rink is located right beside the market. Skating admission is free if you bring your own skates! Rentals are available for a small fee.
- Santa’s Chalet: Bring the kids! Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus are free on Cates Deck, allowing for a great family photo op without the typical high price tag.
- Free Admission: A huge draw for this event is the free entry, aligning with the market’s goal to make the festive season accessible to everyone.
📅 Dates, Times, and Location
- When: The market runs from November 28 to December 24, 2025.
- Hours: Generally 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Sunday–Thursday) and 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Friday–Saturday), with slightly earlier closing on Christmas Eve. Check the official website for daily variations.
- Location: The Shipyards (Shipbuilders Square) in Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver (125 Victory Ship Way).
💡 Top Tips for Visiting the Shipyards Christmas Market
1. Take the Seabus – The Ultimate Tip!
- Transit is Best: Skip the hassle and cost of parking entirely. Take the SkyTrain to Waterfront Station in Downtown Vancouver and board the Seabus to the Lonsdale Quay terminal.
- Easy Walk: The market is less than a five-minute walk from the Lonsdale Quay terminal, making it incredibly convenient for anyone traveling from the City of Vancouver. Plus, the 12-minute Seabus ride offers incredible views of the Vancouver skyline!
2. Parking (If You Must Drive)
- There are numerous paid parking lots in the Lower Lonsdale area, but they fill up fast, especially on weekend evenings.
- Pro-Tip: Check out the parking map for the area in advance. Look for lots slightly further away from the immediate waterfront for a better chance of finding a spot.
3. Combine Your Visit
- The market is perfectly located next to the Lonsdale Quay Market & Food Hall, which is great for a sheltered break or extra food options.
- You are also close to the Polygon Gallery and other great restaurants in the Lower Lonsdale area, making it easy to turn your market visit into a full day or evening out in North Vancouver.
Embrace the festive cheer, grab a hot drink, and enjoy this exciting new European-style tradition on the North Shore waterfront!