Things to Do in Vancouver in December Beyond Staying Indoors
Does December in Vancouver mean grey skies and hiding indoors? Not if you know where to go.
Yes, the days are short and often damp, but this is also when the city shines.
Holiday lights glow across gardens and heritage villages, skating rinks pop up along the waterfront, and small-town festivals make for easy day trips. It’s the month when cultural celebrations and cozy outdoor activities balance out the winter gloom.
So layer up, and get into this list of things to do in Vancouver in December that prove the season is anything but dull.
December in Vancouver at a Glance
December in Vancouver is all about holiday lights, festive markets, and cozy ways to make the most of long nights.
Key dates to know:
- Hanukkah: December 14–22, 2025
- Winter Solstice: December 21, 2025
- Christmas Day: December 25, 2025
- Boxing Day: December 26, 2025
Top Pick: Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge (Nov 21–Jan 18) — a glowing rainforest experience worth bundling up for.
1. Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
Where: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver
Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Best for: Families, photographers, and out-of-town guests.
- Capilano’s suspension bridge, Cliffwalk, and treetop platforms glow with thousands of lights strung through the rainforest.
- I’ve been many times over the years, and it never loses its magic, especially on misty evenings when the canyon feels cinematic.
- Weeknights tend to be quieter, making it easier to linger without the big weekend crowds.
2. Illuminate Maple Ridge (formerly Glow Maple Ridge)
Where: Memorial Peace Park & Maple Ridge Town Centre (around 224th St)
Dates: Late November – early January (2025/26 season, exact dates TBC)
Best for: Families and budget-friendly nights out.
- Downtown Maple Ridge comes alive with light tunnels, glowing displays, and festive music.
- It’s free, easy to reach by transit, and feels more small-town and relaxed than Vancouver’s larger festivals.
- I suggest grabbing a hot chocolate or another warm drink from a nearby café to make the walk even cozier.
3. Dundarave Festival of Lights
Where: Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver
Dates: December 2025 (trees lit all month; concerts, bonfires and other events happen on Saturdays from late November throughout December)
Website: dundaravefestival.com
Best for: Seaside strolls with holiday cheer.
- Dozens of decorated trees line the seawall, each created by a community group.
- With the ocean and mountains as a backdrop, it feels distinctly West Coast.
- I like heading there at dusk to watch the sun dip before the lights fully come on.
4. Lights at Lafarge (Coquitlam)
Where: Town Centre Park, Coquitlam (SkyTrain: Lafarge Lake–Douglas Station)
Dates: November 28, 2025 – late February 2026
Website: coquitlam.ca/lights
Best for: Stroller-friendly walks, dog owners, and budget-friendly evenings.
- This is one of Metro Vancouver’s largest free displays, circling Lafarge Lake with themed light zones.
- Because it runs into February, it’s a great option after the holiday rush.
- I usually take the SkyTrain to avoid the parking crunch — it drops you right at the lake.
5. Steveston Winter in the Village
Where: Steveston Village, Richmond
Dates: December 1 – 31, 2025
Best for: Heritage lovers and waterfront views.
- Historic Steveston gets decked out for the holidays, with shop windows glowing and the Festival of Trees inside the Gulf of Georgia Cannery.
- Walking the boardwalk after dark, with lights reflecting on the harbour, always feels like stepping into a winter postcard.
6. Shipyards Skate Plaza + Christmas Market
Where: Shipbuilders’ Square, 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Dates: Rink: December – February (weather dependent) | Market: November 28 – December 24, 2025
Websites: shipyardschristmasmarket.com
Best for: Couples, teens, and anyone who loves skyline views.
The Shipyards offer outdoor skating with the Vancouver skyline as your backdrop. A new Christmas market adds dozens of local vendors for last-minute gifts. I like going just after dark when the city lights across the water make the rink feel extra festive.
7. Burnaby Village Museum – Heritage Christmas
Where: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby
Dates: Late November – early January (2025 dates TBC)
Website: burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
Best for: Multigenerational family outings and history buffs.
- Step into a recreated 1920s village, with heritage buildings, vintage lights, and free admission (the carousel is a small extra).
- I’ve visited on frosty afternoons when the lights sparkle against the heritage storefronts; it’s one of the most charming holiday traditions in Metro Van.
8. Holiday Lights in Williams Park (Langley)
Where: 6595 238 St, Township of Langley
Dates: Mid–late December 2025 (last year ran Dec 9–29; closed Dec 25–26)
Best for: Families who’d rather stay warm in the car.
- This volunteer-run drive-through has been a Langley favourite for decades. The whimsical light scenes tucked under tall evergreens feel nostalgic.
- On rainy nights, it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy holiday lights without umbrellas and soggy boots.
9. Noel Surrey with the Magic of Bright Nights
Where: Cloverdale Fairgrounds, Surrey
Dates: November 28 – December 28, 2025 (closed Dec 1, 8, 24–25)
Website: noelfestival.com
Best for: Families wanting a big indoor/outdoor light festival without heading downtown.
- With the Stanley Park train suspended, Bright Nights has moved into Surrey’s Noel Festival.
- Expect a 1-km light walk, covered zones for rainy days, and free parking.
- It’s a new setting, but it still carries that Bright Nights energy.
10. VanDusen Festival of Lights
Where: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver
Dates: Late November – early January (2025 dates TBA)
Best for: Garden lovers and classic holiday outings.
- Over a million lights turn VanDusen Botanical Garden into a glowing maze of themed displays.
- I’ve found weeknight slots the most enjoyable…weekends tend to feel a bit too busy.
- The small parking lot fills up quickly, but there is also street parking and easy transit options available.
11. Grouse Mountain – Peak of Christmas
Where: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Dates: Late November – early January (2025/26 dates TBA)
Best for: Families, snow seekers, and anyone wanting a festive alpine vibe.
- Grouse Mountain turns into the “North Pole” each December with snowshoeing, ice skating, and light walks through snowy trees.
- I’ve been up there during the holidays, and it feels like a completely different world compared to the rainy city below.
- Bundle up — it’s several degrees colder than sea level.
12. Christmas at Canada Place
Where: 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver Waterfront
Dates: December 1 – early January (2025/26 dates TBA)
Best for: Budget-friendly family outings and visitors staying downtown.
This free holiday tradition lights up the Canada Place promenade with festive displays, Christmas trees, and the historic Woodward’s Windows. It’s easy to fit in with a stroll around the waterfront or before dinner nearby.
13. Vancouver Christmas Market
Where: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Dates: November 13 – December 24, 2025
Best for: Shoppers, foodies, and festive photos by the Olympic Cauldron.
- This European-style market brings handcrafted gifts, mulled cider alternatives, and live music downtown.
- Be prepared for very long lineups, limited parking, and probably spending more money than you would like to or planned to.
- It’s important to get tickets in advance if at all possible, as dates do sell out.
14. Local Holiday Markets (Beyond the Christmas Market)
Where: Various neighbourhoods across Metro Vancouver
Dates: November – December weekends (exact dates vary by venue)
Websites: Check local community centres + craft fair listings
Best for: Handmade gifts, baked treats, and supporting small businesses.
- While the Vancouver Christmas Market downtown gets the spotlight, there are dozens of smaller community markets throughout Metro Vancouver.
- I often pop into local craft fairs in places like East Van, New West, or North Vancouver — they’re relaxed, less crowded, and full of unique finds.
If you’re looking for even more festive ideas beyond these highlights, I’ve rounded up a full list of Christmas activities in Vancouver that covers markets, light displays, and seasonal traditions across the city.
Wintertime Easy Day Trips from Vancouver in December
Bowen Island
Just a short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, Bowen Island feels especially peaceful in December. I went one year right before Christmas, and the quiet trails and cozy cafés gave it a festive but laid-back charm.
Christmas in Whistler
Whistler Village goes all in on holiday decorations, with twinkling lights across the pedestrian paths and seasonal events like the Fire & Ice Show.
Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or just strolling through the decorated village, it’s one of the most festive day trips from Vancouver. So, even if you’re not into skiing, spending the wintertime in Whistler makes for a fun getaway.
Harrison Hot Springs
The waterfront glows with Lights by the Lake, a walk-through display of illuminated art installations. Soaking in the hot springs afterward makes it one of the coziest winter escapes close to the city. Spending winter in Harrison Hot Springs makes for a good base if you’re planning a girls’ weekend away.
Fort Langley Historic Village
The Fort Langley National Historic Site and the town of Fort Langley and surrounding shops bring a historic charm to the season, with heritage displays and seasonal programming.
What to Wear in Vancouver in December
Vancouver’s winters are usually wet rather than snowy, apart from the occasional cold snap in January or February, so the key is staying dry and warm.
A good waterproof jacket is essential — go for a breathable shell that can handle hours of steady rain. Pair it with waterproof boots with traction so you’re comfortable on city sidewalks and muddy park paths.
I always keep a compact umbrella in my bag for sudden downpours, and layering with a light puffer mid-layer or fleece makes it easy to stay warm without overheating when you duck into cafés or shops.
FAQs About Vancouver in December
What is the weather like in Vancouver in December?
The weather in Vancouver in December is usually rainy with daytime highs around 7 °C and lows near 0 °C.
Are holiday light attractions open every night in December?
Most holiday light attractions in Vancouver are open nightly in December, but some close for weather or select holidays.
Tips for December in Vancouver
- Book popular events like Canyon Lights and VanDusen early, especially for weekends.
- Transit is often easier than driving — parking can be tight in December.
- Rain makes the lights look even brighter; embrace it with a waterproof jacket.
- Weeknight evenings are less crowded and more relaxed.
- Keep a few indoor options in mind (museums, galleries, cafés) for stormy days.
Want More Holiday Magic?
If December in Vancouver has you ready for more festive lights and cozy evenings, you’ll love diving deeper into the season. Read my post on Christmas in Vancouver for even more local traditions and insider tips.
For a broader look at how to make the most of the season, my guide to Vancouver in winter shares cozy activities, outdoor adventures, and local tips that go beyond the holiday focus.
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More Articles on Vancouver in Winter
- Vancouver Winter Bucket List: Top Ways to Savour the Season at Your Own Pace
- 17 Christmas Activities in Vancouver: Fun, Free, and Festive
- Is Capilano Suspension Bridge Canyon Lights Worth It?
- 11 Valentine’s Day in Vancouver Activities and Ideas
- Is the Capilano Love Lights Worth It When in Vancouver?
- Things to Do in Vancouver in December Beyond Staying Indoors
- Things to Do in Vancouver in January (That Locals Actually Do)
- Things to Do in Vancouver in February: Festivals, Outdoor Fun, and Cozy Day Trips
- 7 Day Trips from Vancouver in Winter: Local Favourites to Try
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