The holidays would not be complete without enjoying the splendor and spectacle of bedazzling Christmas lights. The city is all lit up this time of year, so pick a destination and grab a friend to check out a few of these showcases. There are lots of free and paid events to choose from. PS. Don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Guide for Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs in Vancouver!
Christmas Lights – Free to See
Light Up Dome Experience
West Georgia & Granville Street (at Nordstrom Pacific Centre entrance)
Big, beautiful glowing ball of light. Insta-worthy scene that you have to check out. PS. This is also the best place to steal a kiss – there’s a pretty mistletoe at the centre of the installation. We love these IG snaps from @jdstaplesdotcom | @chocoviv | @granvillest
Vancouver Christmas Tree
Robson Square, Vancouver
Tree lighting on December 2, on until Christmas
Vancouver’s iconic Christmas tree is relocating to Robson Square this year. It will be a 50-foot, 7,961 lb tree covered with over 6,000 lights. You’ll see it between Howe and Hornby so be sure to stop by while you’re downtown this season. The tree will be lit on December 2nd, from 5-7pm. Festivities that evening includes photos with Santa, live music, and free hot chocolate!
Lights of Hope
St Paul’s Hospital, 178 – 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver
The annual Lights of Hope display takes 150+ volunteers to build. The beautifully lit wall features over 10km of lights, 100,000 bulbs and hundreds of sponsored stars. Donations are gratefully accepted for St. Paul’s Hospital.
Vancouver Parade of Carol Ships
Coal Harbour and False Creek, Vancouver
December 2 – December 23, 2016
This is a unique display of lights along the water in and around downtown Vancouver. This is a nightly procession of nearly 50 decked-out boats, which you can enjoy from the shore. Pro-tip: Snap a family photo with the view and enter to win four dinner cruise tickets.
Granville Island
Granville Island, Vancouver
Stroll around the Island at night to enjoy the Tree of Light, the shimmering balls of light that line the streets and the little alley that will give you that perfect holiday photo.
Trinity Street Christmas Light Festival
December 2016 – early January 2017
2400-2900 Trinity Street, Vancouver
Walk down this festive residential block where neighbours try to out-do each other year after year. Keep an eye out for special events on some nights. Donations are gratefully accepted for local organizations.
Self-Guided Tour of Residential Homes
There are lots of private residences that go all out with their light displays. Watch for interactive maps from Vancouver Sun and CTV to come (hope they will put this together like they do in past years – we’ll post them here when we spot them.)
Christmas Lights – Ticketed Experiences
Enchant Christmas Light Maze & Market
November 25 – December 31, 2016
1st Avenue & Crowe Street, between Cambie Street Bridge & Olympic Village
Adults: $19.95 | Seniors and Youth: $14.95 | Family and market-only passes available
Brand new attraction this season, claiming to be the world’s largest Christmas Light Maze. Wander through over 55,000 sq. ft. of brilliantly illuminated sculptures arranged to create the perfect atmosphere for an evening adventure. There is also a holiday market with over 40 local vendors, 12 food trucks and a licensed eating area.
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
November 29, 2016 – January 3, 2017
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Adults $32.95 | Youth 13-16 $21.95 | Kids 6-12 $12
This is the most jaw-dropping display of lights. Here, you will find the world’s tallest living Christmas tree – a Douglas Fir standing at 152 feet, decorated with thousands of sparking lights. The dazzling sight of the 140-metre bridge and the rainforest will not disappoint. For the kidlets, there is children’s scavenger hunt, gingerbread cookie decorating, sing-a-long carols, and more.
Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden
5251 Oak Street, Vancouver
December 1, 2016 – January 2, 2017
Adults $18.50 | Youth 13-18 $14.25 | Kids 4-12 $11 | Family passes available
Experience the Festival of Lights, a frozen winter wonderland with over one million lights decorating the garden. Enjoy the Dancing Lights show on the lake, gnome performance, and shadow puppet show. Have photos taken with Santa and savour holiday treats while you’re at it.
Bright Lights Train at Stanley Park
Stanley Park, Vancouver
November 28, 2016 – January 1, 2017
Adults $12 | Senior & Youth $9 |Child $8 | Afternoon matinee $6 for all ages
During the holidays, the Bright Nights Christmas Train and Stanley Park Train Plaza sparkle with three million twinkling lights. Enjoy the breathtaking displays and live performers along the train route. This is a must-do with the kids! Your donation and a portion of ticket sales go to the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.