Looking for something a little different to do this holiday season? We’ve got you covered.
With the holiday season just around the corner, all the iconic Vancouver holiday staples are back – the Christmas Market, Santa Claus Parade, Canyon Lights, Christmas-themed Flyover Canada, and lots more. However, if you’re looking to do something different this year, step off the beaten path to discover some unique holiday fun. Here are our top picks.
Aurora Winter Festival
(November 22 – January 5)
Ready to experience Canada’s largest winter festival? Head to the PNE/Hastings Park where you’ll be whisked away to a hidden wintery village with a tube park, skating ring, amusement rides, huge light displays, and more. The family can enjoy Storytime with Santa, do crafts at the Craft tent and visit the holiday market. The park will also have mystical worlds, where children can meet loveable, magical characters. Purchase tickets online at aurorawinterfestival.com.
Timberline Country Christmas
(November 30 – December 22)
If you’re looking for a simple and relaxing holiday experience with the family, Timberline Country Christmas is a good bet. This 73-acre horse ranch in Maple Ridge transforms into a holiday wonderland every November. Offering a ‘linear experience’, you’ll progress from activity to activity at your own pace. These activities range from decorating Christmas cookies, a covered wagon ride, a hay maze, a workshop where you can make a Christmas ornament and a Christmas tree display. Younger children will enjoy ‘Snowville’ – a snow-themed ball pit and the pony rides. Online reservations are needed, visit timberlinechristmas.ca to save your spot.
Loft Country Christmas
(December 13,14,15, 20, 21,22)
Experience Christmas in the Wild West at Loft Country Christmas in Langley. Enjoy a long list of activities with the family, from bumper cars, kids maze, pony rides, and carnival games. Children are sure to love the treasure hunt and petting zoo. Carriage rides with Santa on a team of horses are also available! Visit loftcountrychristmas.com to purchase tickets online.
Yule Duel
(December 5)
For an unforgettable evening, head down to Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza on December 5 between 5.30 pm – 9 pm and experience a massive street caroling competition where choirs compete to raise money for charity. If you’d like to join the singing officially, you can register your choir to sing – they welcome both small and large groups. Visit yuledule.com for more information.
Winter Harp 2019
(December 11, 12, 15, 18, 20)
Looking for a unique Christmas concert experience? Step back in time with Winter Harp, an ensemble of harps, flutes, medieval instruments, percussion and singers. Dressed in medieval attire, with backdrops of cathedrals, snow and candles, they perform heartwarming selections of holiday music – from familiar to medieval carols. Visit winterharp.com for a full schedule of concert dates and locations.
Photos: Courtesy of events/organizations featured, Timberline Ranch - Facebook