Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
Visitors gather downtown to watch the lighting of a 76-foot Christmas tree decorated with over 100,000 light bulbs. The community celebration features complimentary hot chocolate, vendor booths, and live entertainment including dancers, special guests, and an appearance from Santa Claus.
What to Expect
Featuring a 76-foot tree illuminated by more than 100,000 bulbs.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Vancouver
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Amacon
Food & Drink
Free hot chocolate is available; vendors also sell items for an extra charge.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and visitors of all ages
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission, including free hot chocolate; vendors sell items for an extra charge.
- Hours: Ceremony starts at 6pm; it ends with the lighting of the tree. No ending time is stated.
Tips & Advice
- Be there when the ceremony begins, because the entertainers, dancers and Santa lead up to the lighting of the tree at the very end.
- Dress warmly for an evening outdoors in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery, and warm up with the free hot chocolate.
- Bring some money for the vendor booths, since everything other than the free hot chocolate is sold at an extra charge.
- If you can't get downtown on the night, watch the whole ceremony on the livestream at home.
- Missed the lighting? The 76-foot tree stays lit for the whole holiday season, so you can still see it later.
Special Events & Promotions
- Hosted this year by Fred Lee, CBC contributor and personality
- Livestream of the ceremony for anyone who can't attend in person
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the event for?
Everyone. It's a family-friendly event and all ages are welcome.
Who will be there?
Fred Lee, CBC contributor and personality, hosts. City Council, live entertainers, dancers and Santa Claus also appear.
Is there food and drink?
There's free hot chocolate. Other vendors sell items at an extra charge.
Can I watch if I can't make it downtown?
Yes, the celebration is livestreamed for anyone who can't attend in person.
How can I donate?
For smaller donations, buy virtual bulbs through the Buy a Bulb program, which supports BC Children's Hospital and the Vancouver International Children's Festival. For larger donations, fill in the form on the site and organizers will follow up.
More Christmas Events Near Vancouver
More Christmas Events near Vancouver
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.