Discover 29 verified other christmas activities in Vancouver and nearby areas.
Welcome to our guide for Vancouver Christmas activities, your go-to resource for unique festive experiences beyond the usual! This collection highlights a diverse range of seasonal events and celebrations happening throughout the city. Get ready to discover some truly special holiday moments.
From the bustling streets of downtown Vancouver to the charming neighbourhoods like Kitsilano, there are always exciting holiday happenings. Explore public spaces and community hubs that often transform into festive wonderlands during this magical time of year.
This guide brings together a variety of festive experiences designed to add extra sparkle to your holiday season. We encourage you to explore the unique mix of activities available and embrace the spirit of Christmas fun in Vancouver!
Historic public square tree lighting ceremony
Join the community for the enchanting Vancouver Community Tree Lighting ceremony at Esther Short Park. This cherished annual event marks the festive start of the holiday season, bringing residents together to celebrate under the glow of the beautifully illuminated Christmas...
Illuminated ships parading on the Columbia River
Experience the enchanting Christmas Ships Parade as it glides along the Columbia River, transforming the water into a shimmering spectacle of holiday lights. This cherished tradition, nearly 70 years in the making, offers a magical evening for all. Watch dozens...
Historic holiday celebration at Fort Vancouver
Step into a festive wonderland at the Heritage Holiday at Fort Vancouver. This event offers a magical experience with a joyful atmosphere, perfect for creating cherished holiday memories with loved ones. Explore the historic site adorned for the season and...
Parade of over 75 decorated Christmas ships on two rivers
Experience the magic of the Christmas Ships Parade, a cherished Northwest tradition that illuminates the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Witness a fleet of over 75 brightly decorated boats as they sail nightly, creating a dazzling spectacle of lights and holiday...
Festive holiday race with carolers and cookie stations.
Join Portland's premier winter race event, the Holiday Half, offering Half Marathon, 15K, 10K, and 5K distances. Experience a festive atmosphere with carolers, holiday music, and unique cookie stations along the scenic course. Celebrate at the finish line with a...
Authentic Dickens-era caroling quartets
Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with The Dickens Carolers, a beloved Portland tradition since 1985. These professional quartets, adorned in authentic 1840s attire, deliver timeless Christmas carols in rich, unaccompanied four-part harmony. Their performances evoke the...
Historic steam train ride with Santa Claus
Embark on a magical journey aboard The Holiday Express, pulled by a vintage 1912 steam locomotive. Join Santa and his elves for a festive ride through the city, enjoying the decorated, heated rail cars. Before or after your trip, explore...
Festive holiday pop-up bar experience
Step into a winter wonderland at McMenamins' 'The Nightcap Before Christmas' holiday pop-up bar. They are transforming a space into a festive haven, perfect for enjoying seasonal cocktails and soaking in the holiday spirit. It's an ideal spot to unwind...
Christmas treasure hunt with Santa
Join a delightful Christmas Treasure Hunt where families can search for hidden holiday surprises. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage in festive fun and meet Santa Claus himself, making for a memorable holiday experience.
Winter Solstice Christmas Ships viewing
Experience the magic of the Winter Solstice with a special viewing of the iconic Christmas Ships. This event offers a unique opportunity to witness the beautifully illuminated ships as they sail by, creating a festive and memorable spectacle. It's a...
Festive holiday run with costume options.
Lace up for Santa's Holiday Hustle, offering a choice between a 5K road race or a more rugged 10K trail run. Participants can embrace the festive spirit by wearing costumes, with the option to substitute a race shirt. After crossing...
Portland's unique Hipster Santa appearance.
Experience the magic of the holiday season with a visit to Santa at Washington Square. Pre-booking your reservation is recommended to ensure a smooth visit and receive a special digital message from Santa. Capture unforgettable photos with Santa and his...
Festive holiday 5K run/walk and 10K trail run.
Lace up your running shoes for Santa's Holiday Hustle 5K and the Dirty Santa 10K Trail Run! This festive event invites participants to celebrate the holidays with an active twist. Choose between a cheerful 5K run/walk or a more adventurous...
Community trombone ensemble performing holiday classics.
Experience the unique sounds of the season at Trombone Christmas Northwest! This family-friendly event gathers trombonists of all abilities to perform beloved holiday classics in a joyful outdoor setting. It's a heartwarming celebration of community and music, perfect for spreading...
Annual tree lighting with Santa and the Grinch
Join the Wood Village community for their annual Holiday Tree Lighting event. This festive evening promises an array of holiday cheer, including live music, joyful caroling, and delicious hot cocoa and treats. Capture memorable moments with Santa Claus or snap...
Caroling trolley ride through festive neighborhoods
Experience the joy of the season with the Holiday Fa La La Trolley! This festive excursion invites passengers to sing carols and spread holiday cheer while traveling through the picturesque neighborhoods of Lake Oswego and Riverwood. Enjoy treats on board...
61st annual tree lighting with Santa and reindeer viewing.
Join the City of Lake Oswego and the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce for their 61st Annual Tree Lighting Festival. This cherished tradition rings in the holiday season with a vibrant celebration at Millennium Plaza Park. Enjoy live music, caroling,...
Community tree lighting with Santa and a lighted parade
Washougal, Washington, invites you to embrace the holiday spirit at their annual Lighted Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. This festive event begins in Reflection Plaza with music from the Washougal High School Band, plus warm drinks and sweet treats. Santa...
Community parade and tree lighting with decorated vehicles
Join the 22nd annual Jingle Thru North Plains Parade, a beloved community tradition. Decorate your vehicle, whether it's a car, truck, or golf cart, and light up the night. The parade culminates in a festive tree lighting ceremony, accompanied by...
Hands-on holiday wreath making workshop
Embrace the holiday spirit by crafting your own festive wreath. This engaging workshop provides all the necessary materials and expert guidance from creative staff. It's a perfect opportunity to start a cherished holiday tradition with friends and family, creating a...
Hands-on holiday wreath and centerpiece creation workshop.
Get ready to deck your halls with handmade holiday magic at Hoffman Farms Store! This cozy, hands-on workshop invites you to create a custom wreath or centerpiece, perfect for welcoming guests. All materials, including seasonal greens, ribbons, and décor accents,...
Annual holiday tree lighting ceremony with Santa and vendors
Join the community in Historic Downtown Oregon City for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting. This festive evening features live music, a chance to meet Santa, and a curated selection of holiday vendors. It's the perfect way to kick off the...
Annual holiday parade with 'Jolly Gingerbread Jamboree' theme
Experience the magic of the 'Jolly Gingerbread Jamboree' Holiday Parade in West Linn's historic Willamette Main Street area. This beloved annual event kicks off at 5:00 PM, filling the streets with festive floats, cheerful music, and the warm spirit of...
Annual community tree lighting ceremony with Santa.
Forest Grove invites you to its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration, marking the joyous start to the festive season. This magical evening features caroling, delightful cookies, engaging family activities, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Join the community at...
Annual community tree lighting ceremony with Santa.
Join the community of Wilsonville for their annual Winterfest Tree Lighting ceremony. This festive event features heartwarming choir performances, a special visit from Santa Claus for photos, and a creative craft room. It's a perfect way to kick off the...
Annual community tree lighting ceremony
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the annual Newberg Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event marks the official start of the holidays in Newberg, bringing the community together for a joyous occasion. Details about specific activities, times,...
Parade of decorated Christmas ships on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers
Experience the magic of the Christmas Ships on the Columbia River, a cherished Northwest tradition since 1954. Witness a fleet of over 75 brightly decorated boats parade nightly along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, illuminating the waterways with festive lights....
Meet Snow White at a fairytale holiday tea party.
Step into a fairytale this holiday season with a magical tea party hosted by Snow White. This enchanting event offers a delightful experience for all ages, featuring charming storytelling, festive songs, and a chance to meet the beloved princess. It's...
Magical train journey to the North Pole with Santa.
All aboard for a magical journey to the North Pole on The Polar Express™ Train Ride! This enchanting experience brings the beloved children's book to life with interactive storytelling, festive music, and delightful characters. Passengers are treated to hot chocolate...
See the location of all other christmas activities around Vancouver and nearby areas
Open Map →Outdoor skating rinks often pop up in public spaces like Robson Square during the winter months. For other winter sports, consider destinations slightly outside the immediate downtown core, offering a range of snowy activities.
Yes, many shopping centres throughout Vancouver, such as Pacific Centre and Oakridge Centre, typically host Santa meet-and-greets. Keep an eye on their event schedules closer to the holiday season.
While specific train rides vary, look for special holiday events hosted by local heritage railways or community organizations. These often include festive light displays and unique seasonal celebrations.
Exploring the festive light displays in various neighbourhoods, visiting public markets, and enjoying the holiday window displays downtown are great free options. Many community centres also host affordable holiday events.