Squamish2024
HolidaySquamish
entertainingSquamish style
Our guide to keeping a wide variety of visitors holly jolly this season
BY ALYSSA NOEL
When you live in Squamish, no matter the season, one thing remains true: people are going to want to visit you.
For the right person—one who loves donning their tour guide hat and showing off their beautiful town—it’s a tick in the pro column. But come your 30th slog up the Stawamus Chief with a rst-time hiker in tow, you might start wanting to expand your hosting repertoire—even tailoring it to your visitor.
Now, enter the holidays, when friends and family descend upon your home in droves—all with different interests, energy levels and skills.
Fear not: we’re here to help you nd some holiday fun in Squamish, no matter who you’re entertaining.
Your aunt who hates the outdoors
Let’s start with the basics: not everyone loves the outdoors and sometimes, especially around the holidays, they might nd themselves in Canada’s Outdoor Recreation Capital just to see you.
“Squamish became famous for some of our outdoor attractions and activities, but, as a result, we’ve had lots of businesses pop up to cater to different needs,” said Shawna Lang, director of destination marketing and member engagement for Tourism Squamish.
That’s become increasingly true in recent years. So, if self-proclaimed city girl Aunt Susan comes to town, what are your options?
Take her shopping. Start with the growing number of clothing stores (TEAG + GRAY, Wild and Heart, Random & Co., Stylezone, and Pearl’s Value and Vintage) before moving on to local jewelry. Stop at Scandinavia Wolf Design’s new downtown storefront to check out unique Squamish designs you won’t nd anywhere else. While Treeline Collective boasts blankets, bathing suits, and other accessories, they also carry a range of rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
Santa takes a stroll over the Sea to Sky Gondola’s
Cap off your shopping spree with a cosy stop at two Squamish bookstores. Gather Books and Lovely Things offers beautiful children’s books—with gifts and adult book options too—while newcomer Book Mountain stocks curated used and new books.
While it might be a busy day, your city-slicker aunt will surely have enough energy left over for dinner and drinks. Check out two of the most picturesque watering holes in Squamish: Watershed Grill, a locals’ favourite, or up-andcomer Broken Seal for beer, cocktails and tasty eats. She might not be interested in climbing mountains, but surely she’ll enjoy a view of them from these locations.
Kids on winter break
No one knows how to party harder at Christmas than kids. While most little ones are just biding their time until the big jolly guy arrives, there are plenty of ways to keep them entertained during the season. The most obvious: head up the Sea to Sky Gondola for a glimpse of—and photos with— Santa Nov. 29, 30 and Dec. 1, 2, 6, 7, and 8 in the Summit Lodge. (Online booking is available at seatoskygondola. com.) Starting on Dec. 1, the gondola also hosts a festive forest walk around its Spirit Trail loop—decked out with lights, signs and decorations of all sorts.
Another unique option for pictures with St. Nick? Head just South of town to the Britannia Mine Museum. This year,
they will have a professional photographer on hand to snap a pic of kids or the whole family. “We do a different theme each year and this year, it’s to do with mining,” said Tamsyn Jenkins, sales and marketing manager for the museum.
“Santa and his elves will be set up with a mine cart in the machine shop.”
That will take place Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15. (More information and booking at britanniaminemuseum.ca.)
But photos aside, the museum is a great place to bring both kids and adults, Jenkins added.
“It’s something you can do as a whole family,” she said. “Everyone will get something out of it and something different. The children enjoy the train ride and gold panning … There’s always something in each exhibit interesting for all members of the family.”
The holiday season can be a little busier at the museum, so book ahead—and remember a warm coat and boots.
Likewise, dress up and head to Squamish at Dusk in Rose Park. The interactive light show is back for a second year and spreads throughout the park to create a winter wonderland. It runs every Thursday to Saturday from Nov. 28 until Dec. 14.
Looking for a warmer option? At Arrow Wood Games, you can peruse their selection of games, puzzles and gifts before meandering over to Fox & Oak or Sun ower Bakery for a donut and hot chocolate.
A cup of hot chocolate is a tasty winter treat up the gondola.
Every year the gondola decks out a hiking trail over the holidays.
PHOTOS BY NINA LAFLAMME/ TOURISM SQUAMISH
Your mountain-loving best friend
Well, this one is a little more straightforward. Arguably one of the best things about Squamish is you can hike all year round—at least at lower elevations. Some good options: the Stawamus Chief, Slhanay Peak (or some of its easier lookout points), or Murrin Provincial Park. While these might not be in the way-backcountry, it’s still essential to carry safety equipment, shoe spikes, and, of course, plenty of warm layers.
If your bud is into either cross-country or backcountry skiing, you can take them up the gondola to experience both close to home. To rent gear, visit Valhalla Pure or Urban Alpine. There are also plenty of options for trail running or more casual hiking at Smoke Bluffs Park or in the Squamish Estuary.
But, remember, give your guests fair warning about potential rain.
“We love the rain here,” Lang said. “We are beautiful because of the rain and we wouldn’t be who we are without the rain. As locals, we learn to live in the rain and enjoy all the things we do outside—even in rainy or snowy weather.”
And, of course, you can cap off your adventure with a visit to a local brewery (Backcountry Brewing, A-Frame), cidery (Cliffside Cider, Geo Cider), or even distillery (Raincity Distillery).
Your mom, who is ready to be pampered
Squamish has been upping its self-care game in recent years. “This demonstrates the importance of wellness in conjunction with outdoor activities and adventures,” Lang said. “So either enjoy both, or enjoy the relaxation and wellness while others enjoy the outdoors. Relaxation and pampering is sometimes overlooked over the holidays.”
To that end, your mom—who made all those holidays magical for you growing up—deserves a little R’n’R. Lucky for her, you have some options.
Plunge Wellness recently opened its doors with a sauna and four cold plunge tubs right here in town. You can also nd AIKA, which has a similar hot-and-cold approach down Squamish Valley, as well as The Finnish Sauna at Cheekye Ranch.
Another new spot is FILI Space, which offers a triple whammy: coffee, smoothies, and tness.
And, of course, there’s a tried-and-true favourite: a trip to the nail salon. Squamish boasts many places to get your mani-pedi, including Cloud 9 Wellness Spa.
Hosting guests might feel like a lot of pressure during the holidays—especially when you’re keen to show off your town. But, just remember, at the end of the day, the season is about spending time with friends and family—no matter what you’re doing.
Squamish at Dusk offers an interactive light show for all ages
A tunnel lit up as part of Squamish at Dusk
Catch Squamish at Dusk at Rose Park
Embrace the holiday season:
supporting local matters
As the holiday season draws near, your purchasing decisions make more of an impact than ever. Sure, big-name retailers and online giants may offer convenience, but there’s something truly special about supporting local businesses during this festive time. Here’s a handful of reasons to opt for locally sourced gifts.
Invest in your community and build connections
Whether it’s artisanal soap, lotions and skincare products made with locally sourced ingredients, delectable treats from a neighbourhood bakery or chocolate shop, or handcrafted pottery and ceramics from a local artist, each purchase directly supports the livelihood of small business owners and their families.
Moreover, when you support local businesses, you can build personal connections with the people behind the products. Whether you’re chatting with the owner of your corner bookstore or learning the story behind a handmade item, shopping local allows you to create meaningful connections and learn more about the community around you.
Score unique finds that won’t hurt the planet
Shopping local often means stumbling upon one-of-akind gifts you can’t nd anywhere else. From customized
artwork and prints to specialty tea blends from a nearby cafe and locally distilled spirits and craft beers, your local retailers offer a treasure trove of goods waiting to be discovered.
Additionally, sourcing goods from nearby businesses minimizes the carbon footprint associated with longdistance and overseas shipping and transportation. Whether it’s organic textiles from a local weaver or locally sourced honey and preserves from a nearby farm or apiary, choosing local goods can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle. When you shop locally this winter, you’ll do more than just purchase gifts; you’ll foster a sense of community connection and support the vibrant businesses that make your neighbourhood thrive.
Think local
Create head-turning holiday out ts by shopping at local clothing stores. Whether it’s brand new or gently used, high fashion or lumberjack chic, Squamish has it all.
RECIPES
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 round (8 oz) Brie cheese
• 3 tbsp g jam
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
• Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or apple slices for serving
Method
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Ramekin: Place your Brie wheel in the red-handled fondue ramekin (or any small, oven-safe baking dish).
3. Add Toppings: Spread the g jam on top of the Brie. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and walnuts, pressing them gently into the jam. If you like, drizzle with a little honey for added sweetness.
4. Bake: Place the ramekin on a baking sheet for easy handling. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Brie is soft and gooey. Keep an eye on it, as it may take a little longer depending on your oven.
5. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to slightly rm up. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired. Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or apple slices.
This warm, gooey brie with g, cranberry, and walnut is perfect for cozy gatherings!
Fine Pallet’s Holiday Baked Brie
Baked Brie with Fig
Jam, Dried Cranberries, and Walnuts
Fine Pallet is thrilled to share one of our favourite recipes when it comes to hosting and gathering with our loved ones! This delicious baked brie with g jam, dried cranberries, maple syrup and walnuts is easy to execute and will bring warmth and taste to your holiday gathering.The red-handled classic fondue ramekin adds a charming touch while keeping it warm and gooey!
The Seal Tail
This cocktail is meant for sharing amongst friends and family during the holidays, so our recipe yields over 1 liter, but we recommend doubling so you don’t run out!
The cocktail we created was inspired by the Chilean creation “Cola de Mono” or Monkey Tail - traditionally served cold because of the warm climate in Chile during the holidays, however being in the Paci c Northwest (brrrr)
METHOD
IN A POT BRING TO BOIL
500 ml Almond Milk
2 Cinnamon Sticks
3 Cloves
1 tsp vanilla extract
ONCE BOILING REMOVE FROM HEAT AND ADD
450 ml El Gobernador Pisco
225 ml Kahlua
225 ml Frangelico
AFTER ALL IS COMBINED AND COOLED TO DRINKING TEMPERATURE (warm)
Pour into 3-4 oz serving glasses and top with your choice of whipped cream - we used coconut to make this drink vegan friendly! Finally nish off this masterpiece with a little sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and enjoy!
The Christmas Song
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Yuletide carols being sung by a choir
And folks dressed up like Eskimos
Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Help to make the season bright
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Will find it hard to sleep tonight
They know that Santa’s on his way
He’s loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
And every mother’s child is gonna spy
To see if reindeers really know how to fly
And so I’m offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two
Although it’s been said many times, many ways
Merry Christmas to you
And so I’m offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two
Merry Christmas to you
Although it’s been said many times, many ways
I’m dreaming of a white Christmas
Just like the ones I used to know
Where the tree tops glisten
And children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow
I’m dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white
I’m dreaming of a white Christmas just like the ones I used to know
Where the tree tops glisten
And children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow
I’m dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white.
White Christmas
Do you hear what I hear?
Said the night wind to the little lamb
Do you see what I see?
(Do you see what I see?)
Way up in the sky, little lamb
Do you see what I see?
(Do you see what I see?)
A star, a star, dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite
Do you hear what I hear?
(Do you hear what I hear?)
Do You Hear What I Hear?
Do you hear what I hear?
(Do you hear what I hear?)
Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy
A song, a song high above the trees
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea
Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king
In your palace warm, mighty king
Do you know what I know? (Do you know what I know?)
Let us bring him silver and gold
Let us bring him silver and gold
A Child, a Child shivers in the cold
Said the king to the people everywhere
Pray for peace, people, everywhere
Frosty the Snowman
Frosty the Snowman
Was a jolly happy soul
With a corncob pipe and a button nose
And two eyes made out of coal
Frosty the Snowman
Is a fairy tale they say
He was made of snow
But the children know
How he came to life one day
There must have been some magic
In that old silk hat they found
He began to dance around
Frosty the Snowman
Was alive as he could be
And the children say
He could laugh and play
Just the same as you and me
Frosty the Snowman
Knew the sun was hot that day
Do you know what I know? (Do you know what I know?)
Listen to what I say! (Listen to what I say!)
Listen to what I say! (Listen to what I say!)
The Child, the Child sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light
Silent Night, Holy Night,
All is calm, all is bright.
Round yon Virgin, mother and child
Holy infant, so tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Silent night, holy night,
Shepherds quake at the sight.
Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing hallelujah,
Christ the Saviour is born
Christ the Saviour is born.
Silent night, holy night,
Son of God loves pure light
Radiant beams from thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus lord at thy birth.
Jesus lord at thy birth
For when they placed it on his head
So he said let’s run
And we’ll have some fun
Now before I melt away
Down to the village
With a broomstick in his hand
Saying catch me if you can
Right to the traffic cop
Silent Night
He heard him holler stop
Frosty the Snowman
Had to hurry on his way
But he waved goodbye
‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE MERRY!
Silver Bells
City sidewalks, busy sidewalks.
Dressed in holiday style
In the air there’s a feeling of Christmas
Children laughing, people passing
Meeting smile after smile
and on every street corner you’ll hear
Silver bells, silver bells
It’s Christmas time in the city
Ring-a-ling, hear them sing
Soon it will be Christmas day
Strings of street lights, even stop lights
Blink a bright red and green
As the shoppers rush home with their treasures
Hear the snow crunch, see the kids bunch
This is Santa’s big scene
And above all this bustle you’ll hear
Silver bells, silver bells
It’s Christmas time in the city
Running here and there all around the square
He led them down the streets of town
And he only paused a moment when
Saying don’t you cry
I’ll be back again some day
Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump
Look at Frosty go
Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump
Over the hills of snow
Ring-a-ling, hear them sing
Soon it will be Christmas Day.
Deck The Halls
Deck the Halls with boughs of holly, Fa la la la la, la la la la
'Tis the season to be jolly
Fa la la la la, la la la la
Don we now our gay apparel, Fa la la la la, la la la la Troll the ancient Yuletide carol, Fa la la la la, la la la la
See the blazing Yule before us, Fa la la la la, la la la la
Strike the harp and join the chorus, Fa la la la la, la la la la
Follow me in merry measure, Fa la la la la, la la la la
While I tell of Yuletide treasure, Fa la la la la, la la la la
Fast away the old year passes, Fa la la la la, la la la la
Hail the new, ye lads and lasses, Fa la la la la, la la la la
Sing we joyous all together, Fa la la la la, la la la la
Heedless of the wind and weather, Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Have a holly jolly Christmas
It’s the best time of the year
Now I don’t know if there’ll be snow
But have a cup of cheer
Have a holly jolly Christmas
And when you walk down the street
Say hello to friends you know
And everyone you meet
Ho ho the mistletoe
Is hung where you can see
Somebody waits for you
Kiss her once for me
Have a holly jolly Christmas
And in case you didn’t hear
Oh by golly have a holly jolly Christmas
This year
Ho ho the mistletoe
Is hung where you can see
Somebody waits for you
Kiss her once for me
Have a holly jolly Christmas
And in case you didn’t hear
Oh by golly have a holly jolly Christmas
This year
The Jingle Bell Rock
Have a Holly Jolly Christmas
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring
Snowin’ and blowin’ up bushels of fun
Now the jingle hop has begun
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time
Dancin’ and prancin’ in Jingle Bell Square
In the frosty air
What a bright time, it’s the right time
To rock the night away
Jingle bell time is a swell time
To go glidin’ in a one-horse sleigh
Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet
Jingle around the clock
Mix and a-mingle in the jinglin’ feet
White Christmas
That’s the jingle bell rock
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bell chime in jingle bell time
Dancin’ and prancin’ in Jingle Bell Square
In the frosty air
What a bright time, it’s the right time
To rock the night away
Jingle bell time is a swell time
To go glidin’ in a one-horse sleigh
Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet
Jingle around the clock
Mix and a-mingle in the jinglin’ feet
That’s the jingle bell
That’s the jingle bell
That’s the jingle bell rock
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
Just like the ones I used to know
Where the tree tops glisten
And children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
Wow! Mommy’s kissing Santa Claus!
I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus (kissing, kissing Santa Claus)
Underneath the mistletoe last night
She didn’t see me creep
Down the stairs to have a peep
She thought that I was tucked up
In my bedroom, fast asleep
Then I saw Mommy tickle Santa Claus (tickle, tickle, Santa Claus)
Underneath his beard so snowy white
Oh, what a laugh it would have been
If daddy had only seen
Mommy kissing Santa Claus last night
He saw Mommy kissing (kissing, kissing)
Santa Claus
I did! I really did see Mommy kissing Santa Claus
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas just like the ones I used to know
Where the tree tops glisten
And children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmases be white.
And I’m gonna tell my dad
Then I saw Mommy tickle Santa Claus (tickle, tickle Santa Claus)
Underneath his beard so snowy white
Oh, what a laugh it would have been
If daddy had only seen
Mommy kissing Santa Claus last night
Oh, what a laugh it would have been
If daddy had only seen
Mommy kissing Santa Claus last night
I did! I did! I really did see Mommy kissing
Santa Claus
You gotta believe me! You just gotta believe me!
Come on, fellas, believe me!
You just gotta believe me!
Come on, you gotta believe me!
GIFT GUIDE
Anna’s Interiors
Create unique and inspiring spaces with trending art pieces, and home décor. At Anna’s Interiors, you’ll nd locally sourced items such as ironworks from Bearhill Studio, as well as new stock arriving daily. Come and check them out before they’re gone!
Gather
Arrow Wood Games
Board Games & Puzzles
Unwrap the magic!
Discover the joy of timeless fun. With our wide selection, you’ll nd the perfect game for everyone on your list.
Books & Lovely Things
(formerly Little Bookshop)
Something for everyone on your holiday list
Artful gifts, locally made goods, hand-picked new and notable titles. Can’t decide? Gift cards and monthly memberships make gifting easy!
Squamish Tourism
MTNPK Glassware
Bring Home the Adventure with these uniquely handblown glasses These 3D replicas of Squamish, Black Tusk, The Lions, Whistler, and Blackcomb, allowing you to relive your favourite iconic local spots.
Britannia Mine Museum
The Company Store
Add sparkle to your holiday with gifts from the Company Store! From whimsical treasures for kids to elegant jewelry and captivating books, discover presents that enchant and delight. Unwrap the magic of giving this Christmas at the Britannia Mine Museum.
Memberships
Share the magic of the Britannia Mine Museum with a gift membership or Gift Certi cates and make this Christmas unforgettable!
Squamish Tourism
Squamish Apparel
Embrace the cozy allure of Squamish this season with our curated collection. From snug hoodies to plush eece, stylish crews to warm toques. Elevate your winter wardrobe with our Squamish-branded apparel, the perfect gift for anyone who loves our beautiful hometown.
The Company
Store Your Holiday Gift Shop
Find something for everyone on your list!
GIFT GUIDE
Squamish Tourism
Squamish Blanket
These colourful blankets are designed for a life of adventure. They are super soft, lightweight, and breathable. An essential companion for nights by the camp re, camping trips and cozy nights in!
Stongs
Gift card
Buy a Stong’s Market gift card for the foodie in your life! They make the best stocking stuffers this holiday season.
Treeline Collective
Must have jewelry for adventure women. Sterling silver, nature inspired designed in Squamish.
Scandinavia Wolf Designs
The Varadero Gold Bracelet Stack
Gift Guide
Perfect handmade gifts from award winning designers and Squamish locals Kristy & Jeff Turney. One top pick is the Varadero African Turquoise Gold Bracelet Stack. You can nd jewelry, gemstones, ceramics and stocking stuffers at the Cleveland Ave. boutique or
Garibaldi Graphics
Make every day count with Moleskine Planners
Different layouts meet different needs. From extra-small to extralarge, hard or soft cover, nd the right Moleskine Planner for you. Weekly, yearly, 18 months, customized for your needs. Find Moleskine and many other quality of ce and arts supplies at Garibaldi Graphics.
Sea to Sky Gondola
The perfect gift, just in time for Christmas. We are your home for Holiday Season festivities with family and friends, warm springtime hikes and music- lled summer nights. Sea to Sky Gondola membership, one pass, unlimited experiences.
Squamish Tourism
Squamish Advent Calendar
Dive into the magic of Christmas with the 2024 Squamish Advent Calendar. Immerse yourself in a Squamish festive Christmas tale, each of the 24 days unveils a dam tasty beaver chocolate. Quantities are limited, so seize the opportunity while supplies last!
beaver chocolate. Quantities
Mark’s
Gifts & Stocking Stuffers from Mark’s
Keep loved ones warm this winter with WindRiver, Women’s Heritage Nordic cuffed pom pom toque and mittens, and so much more.
Xoco Westcoast Chocolates
Pick from boxes of artisanal chocolates and bon bons or a variety of handcrafted bars, and polar bears. You’ll nd everything you need for the chocolate lover on your list.
Xoco, Downtown Squamish has so many unique and beautiful creations, it’s hard to choose just one!
Scandinavia Wolf Designs
The Sahara Desert Mug Shop local at Scandinavia Wolf. Another of our top picks is their handmade ceramic “Sahara Desert” mug. You can nd lots of local ceramics, home decor, jewelry, gemstones and stocking stuffers at their Cleveland Ave. boutique or online at www.ScandinaviaWolf.com.
Treeline Collective
The perfect companion for hikes among the wild owers, warm nights beneath starry skies, road trips chasing the last days of summer or even a cozy indoor throw to snuggle up beside the replace at home. Regardless of the season, these machine washable blankets will make for an ideal companion on all of your adventures. We are proud to work directly with artisans from South America to produce unique, ethically made blankets. Through these meaningful partnerships we create products that re ect and share the rich Andean cultural heritage, while respecting and honouring the producers and their environment.
Arrow Wood Games
Stuff your stockings with love and laughter! Great selection of tiny treasures and thoughtful gifts for all ages.
