Nanaimo Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Nanaimo and surrounding areas

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Christmas Markets (35 events) Christmas Lights (24 events) Christmas Shows (6 events) Other Christmas Activities (12 events)
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Nanaimo showcases the holiday season with glowing Christmas lights along the waterfront and lively festive events across Commercial Street and Maffeo Sutton Park. Catch Festival of Trees: Christmas with the Nanaimo Clippers, browse Gifts from the Heart Christmas Arts Market, or enjoy the Ladysmith Festival of Lights nearby. Local holiday attractions include cozy markets, family-friendly activities, and scenic evening strolls under lights that make the festive season perfect for visitors and residents alike.

Find the best Nanaimo Christmas happenings this year!

Nanaimo Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

35 events
Festival of Trees: Christmas with the Nanaimo Clippers • Nov 30 – Dec 8

Autograph session with hockey players for charity

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Christmas Lights

24 events
VanDusen Festival of Lights • Nov 28 – Jan 4, 2026

Over one million lights in a botanical garden setting

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Christmas Shows

6 events
An ABBA Christmas with ABRA Cadabra • Dec 2

ABBA Christmas tribute with live band and dancers

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Other Christmas Activities

12 events
West Coast Winter Wonderland Ice Skating • Nov 28 – Dec 26

Free community ice skating in a winter wonderland.

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Editor's Picks (6)

  1. VanDusen Festival of Lights (Vancouver)
    Over one million lights in a botanical garden setting
  2. The Magic of Christmas at The Butchart Gardens (Brentwood Bay)
    Twelve Days of Christmas light displays
  3. Festival of Trees: Christmas with the Nanaimo Clippers
    Autograph session with hockey players for charity
  4. Lights of Wonder (Victoria)
    Thousands of dazzling holiday lights in Centennial Square.
  5. The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain (North Vancouver)
    Mountaintop Christmas celebration with light displays and Santa.
  6. PNE Winter Fair (Vancouver)
    Dazzling light displays and interactive Santa journey

This Week / Coming Up (6)

O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy Sun, Nov 9
Lumière Festival 2025 Thu, Nov 13
Vancouver Christmas Market Thu, Nov 13
The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive Fri, Nov 14
Santa's Wonderland at Cabela's Sat, Nov 15
A Handmade Christmas Makers Market Fri, Nov 21

Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Nanaimo

Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Nanaimo.

The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive

Largest toy drive in Nanaimo supporting local families

📍 Nanaimo • Nov 14

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Nanaimo Christmas FAQ

When are the best times to visit?

Weekday evenings tend to be less crowded. Peak times are weekends in December, especially closer to Christmas.

Is parking available?

Most events offer on-site parking. Check individual event pages for specific parking information and fees.

Are venues accessible?

Most venues are accessible. Contact individual events for specific accessibility accommodations.