New Westminster Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in New Westminster and surrounding areas
New Westminster lights up the holiday season with Christmas markets and festive attractions along Columbia Street and the Quay, offering seasonal performances and community gatherings. Attend the New Westminster Farmers Market Holiday Market or catch the New Westminster & District Concert Band Christmas Concert for live music and local vendors. With holiday activities and winter festivals, the riverfront streets glow with lights and seasonal cheer, making it easy to find markets, Santa visits, and family-friendly events during the festive season.
Find the best New Westminster Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
39 eventsDazzling light displays and interactive Santa journey
Christmas Lights
32 eventsOver one million lights in a botanical garden setting
Christmas Shows
11 eventsFestive symphonic holiday concert
Christmas Activities
14 eventsPersonalized Santa photo sessions with reservations.
Editor's Picks (6)
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VanDusen Festival of Lights
(Vancouver)
Over one million lights in a botanical garden setting
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The Magic of Christmas at The Butchart Gardens
(Brentwood Bay)
Twelve Days of Christmas light displays
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Festival of Trees: Christmas with the Nanaimo Clippers
(Nanaimo)
Autograph session with hockey players for charity
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Bellingham Holiday Festival of the Arts
(Bellingham)
Over 100 regional artisans in a festive holiday market.
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The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
(North Vancouver)
Mountaintop Christmas celebration with light displays and Santa.
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PNE Winter Fair
(Vancouver)
Dazzling light displays and interactive Santa journey
Events Happening Soon (6)
New Westminster Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near New Westminster
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near New Westminster!
New Westminster Christmas FAQ
The Shine Bright holiday kick-off at City Hall and Light Up Sapperton are among the city’s biggest annual events, featuring light displays, performances, and community gatherings. The Santa Claus Parade along Columbia Street is another beloved tradition, though its return can vary year to year.
New Westminster’s holiday traditions include the Shine Bright community lighting ceremony and the festive transformation of Sapperton’s business district, where local shops and residents collaborate to create a welcoming, illuminated streetscape. These events highlight the city’s strong community spirit.
Sapperton is a standout neighborhood for holiday lights, with its annual Light Up Sapperton event and decorated storefronts. The area around City Hall also shines during the Shine Bright celebration, making both spots ideal for a festive evening walk.
Christmas markets and local makers can often be found in New Westminster’s downtown core and at community centers during the holiday season. These markets are a great place to discover handmade gifts, artisan goods, and seasonal treats.
Enjoying the Shine Bright and Light Up Sapperton light displays, strolling through decorated neighborhoods, and visiting free holiday markets are all excellent budget-friendly options. Many community events also offer free activities for all ages.
Families will enjoy the Shine Bright event at City Hall, with its family-friendly booths and entertainment, as well as Light Up Sapperton for its festive atmosphere. Visits with Santa, holiday crafts, and seasonal performances are often part of the fun.