3 minute read
Winter Family Fun! Holiday Events Still Happening
by Andrea Vance
The Holiday season may look a little different this year, but there are still many ways to enjoy the season of sparkle. We’ve gathered a list of fun and safe events that the whole family will love.
*As things are changing with CoVid19 guidance, please check websites to confirm details, opening dates, and restrictions. Please note most events and attractions require advance tickets purchase and reservations.
PNE WINTER LIGHTS
Dec 11-13, 17-23
Buckle up for this safe, holiday experience that you can enjoy with your family from the warmth of your car along a 2-kilometre route. You will be transported through nine enchanted lands filled with glowing lights in your mission to discover Santa, with special characters and festive performers to help you along your way. Vancouver’s only drive-thru holiday experience shouldn't be missed! $39 per carload. www.www.pne.ca
FESTIVAL OF TREES AT GULF OF GEORGIA CANNERY
December 1 - 24
Explore a forest of festive trees decorated by local merchants and organizations inside Steveston’s Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Open daily. www.gulfofgeorgiacannery.org
BEST BUY TECH WONDERLAND
A fun-filled drive through experience for everyone in the family! Starting with the Tunnel of Lights, you’ll drive past classic Woodward’s Windows and Best Buy Memory Boxes, where classic holiday traditions are brought to life with a modern twist. Stop at the Santa Car Photo Booth and check out one of the Gaming Demos. Finish your evening at the Holiday Drive-in Theatre! All for $20 per carload and proceeds support the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC. Reserve your date and time online at www.pne.ca
HERITAGE CHRISTMAS AT BURNABY VILLAGE
Although this classic event may look a little different this year, Burnaby Village is working hard to ensure visitors have an entertaining and safe outdoor Christmas experience! Please note: Carousel and gift shops are closed. Check back for more details. www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
FLY LIKE SANTA AT FLYOVER CANADA
November 19, 2020 - January 3, 2021
Experience the magic of Christmas this December as you fly across Canada and up to the North Pole with Santa. Ride capacities have been reduced, social distancing rules in place, and masks are mandatory. www.flyovercanada.com
THE BIG ELF RUN
5K and 10K runs around Stanley Park benefiting the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau. Taking place as a live or virtual event in 2020, starting December 1. Also take part in challenges to complete the Elf scavenger hunt over the "12 days of Christmas”. www.raceroster.com/events/2020 /35513/the-virtual-big-elf run
GROUSE MOUNTAIN PEAK OF CHRISTMAS
Twinkling lights, snow, the warmth of Santa’s smile and the joy of real reindeer – at Vancouver’s own North Pole. The Peak of Christmas is back at Grouse Mountain, including skating, sledding, hiking, lights, skiing, dinner & hot chocolates! www.grousemountain.com/peak-ofchristmas
MAGICAL CHRISTMAS STORE AT POTTERS
Until December 24
The largest Christmas store in Western Canada, where 28,000 square feet of greenhouse is transformed into a Wonderland. With Santa’s workshop & house, ornaments and holiday decor, and more than 30 decorated trees, the whole store is a Christmas adventure for everyone in the family. www.potters.ca
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
November 27, 2020 - January 3, 2021
A magical winter wonderland with more than one million lights decorating 10 acres of VanDusen Botanical Garden. Experience the wonder of the winter season in a magical outdoor garden setting with themed areas, unique light features, and holiday music. A new one-way path will take visitors through a memorable holiday experience with ample outdoor space for attendees to physically distance from others. www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreationculture/festival-of-lights
BRIGHT NIGHTS IN STANLEY PARK
November 26, 2020 - January 1, 2021
The classic Bright Nights train will once again be sounding its whistle and chugging through the sparkling magically-lit forest of Stanley Park this Christmas. Kids of all ages will be signing along to their favourite carols as they take in the whimsical displays along their ride. This year there will be no plaza lights or Santa, but all the train will ride through countless twinkling lights, making memories again. Tickets must be purchased in advance. www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreationculture/bright-nights-train
HOHOHOLIDAY 5K
The most festive run run in Canada, supporting Make-A-Wish Canada. The run/walk combines the magic of the Holidays with community engagements and fitness. Every registration includes a Santa suit, finishers medal, holiday treat, timing app and fun sharing. Take a photo of you and your crew on a run in your Santa suit and share to #HoHoHoliday5k. www.hohoholiday5k.com
