Can you believe it’s December already? This year has flown by in a whirlwind of styling stunning showhomes, designing bespoke custom builds, and guiding clients through consultations and renovations. As the industry winds down for the holidays, we’re taking a moment to pause, reflect, and recharge before diving into another year of exciting projects. With the festive season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to embrace the magic of the holidays and draw inspiration from the warmth and joy this season brings.

For those lucky enough to call Vancouver and the Lower Mainland home, the holidays come alive with festive charm and seasonal activities. From dazzling light displays to cozy traditions, the city offers endless opportunities to create cherished memories with loved ones. Here are some of our favourite ways to celebrate the season locally!

1. Holiday Theatre

There’s something timeless about the magic of live theatre during the holidays. From classic productions to contemporary performances, Vancouver’s vibrant theatre scene offers a wealth of captivating options. Whether discovering a hidden gem at a local playhouse or marvelling at the artistry of emerging talent, every performance promises an unforgettable evening.

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to Vancouver, enchanting audiences with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score and Clara’s magical adventures in a uniquely Canadian holiday setting. This cherished tradition is a perennial favourite and a guaranteed delight for all ages.

2. vancouver Christmas market

Discover one-of-a-kind treasures at over 90 artisan huts, offering handcrafted gifts perfect for stockings or under the tree. Food lovers can savour Glühwein (mulled wine), German and Austrian beers, and an array of sweet and savoury treats. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with live performances on the Flying Stage, festive decor, dazzling light displays, and family-friendly fun like the Christmas Carousel, scavenger hunts, and visits from mascots Holly and Jolly. Whether you’re browsing for gifts, enjoying a quick bite, or soaking in the holiday magic, the Market is the ultimate destination for festive cheer.

3. Toy Drive Fun

The holidays are a season of giving, and participating in a toy drive is a heartwarming way to make a difference. Let little ones choose toys for children in need, or indulge your own inner child by picking out the perfect gift. Drop off your unwrapped donations at initiatives like the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau or your local firehall, and experience the joy of spreading holiday cheer.

4. Twinkling Light Tours

Few things evoke the wonder of the season quite like sparkling holiday lights. Bundle up with a cozy scarf, prepare a thermos of decadent hot chocolate, and set out to admire the festive displays around your neighborhood. For a more intentional outing, visit homes that go above and beyond, and if there’s a charity box, consider leaving a donation to support a good cause. Vancouver also has guided holiday walking tours to discover the best light displays and festive decorations.

5. Holiday Chalet Afternoon Tea

Celebrate the season in style at Notch8’s Holiday Chalet Afternoon Tea, inspired by the cozy charm of an alpine chalet. Enjoy a festive selection of savoury treats like Crab & Lobster Rolls, Winter Truffle & Wild Mushroom Tartlets, and traditional Festive Ham with apple chutney. Indulge in delightful sweets such as salted caramel profiteroles, spiced macarons, and gold-flaked shortbread. Paired with seasonal teas, this elegant tea experience offers the perfect setting to make holiday memories with loved ones.

6. Robson Square Ice Rink

This winter, embrace a beloved Vancouver tradition with some classic, old-fashioned fun. The outdoor skating rink at Robson Square is open, offering the perfect way to celebrate the season in the heart of downtown. Gather your friends, family, or loved ones and glide across the ice, soaking in the festive atmosphere and the magic of winter in the city.

The Robson Square ice rink is Vancouver’s only outdoor public skating rink, a true gem in the city. Originally opening in 1982, it was temporarily closed in 1991 for renovations, before reopening in 2009 just in time for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. And while you glide across the ice, don’t forget to warm up with a hot chocolate or enjoy a snack from the rink’s concession stand—perfect for a cozy winter experience.

7. Grouse Mountain

Experience the magic of the season at Grouse Mountain, where festive activities for the whole family await. Enjoy ice skating on a mountaintop rink, sleigh rides through snowy trails, and skiing or snowboarding while soaking in breathtaking views of Vancouver. This year, don’t miss the dazzling light displays and The Light Walk, a trail adorned with twinkling lights winding through the alpine forest.

Visit Santa’s Workshop, where children can meet Santa and his reindeer, adding an extra touch of holiday cheer. Make the season even more special with Breakfast with Santa, a family-friendly dining experience featuring delicious food, cheerful music, and a chance to meet Santa and his elves. With live entertainment and festive surprises, Grouse Mountain offers a winter wonderland for creating unforgettable holiday memories.

8. VanDeusen Festival of Lights

This holiday season, step into a botanical wonderland at the VanDusen Festival of Lights, celebrating 40 magical years of festive displays. Wander through 15 acres of stunning lights, featuring over 1 million twinkling bulbs and exciting new installations like the interactive mycelium display, Wood Wide Web, and Salmon Run, inspired by BC’s Great Bear Rainforest. Experience the enchantment of the Dancing Lights, with three unique shows every 20 minutes, and explore themed light areas while enjoying delicious treats from local food vendors. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!

9. Bright Nights at Stanley Park

Stanley Park transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland each year for Bright Nights, a beloved celebration of light and festive cheer. Wander through sparkling displays, savor seasonal treats, and visit the North Pole workshop for a photo with Santa and his firefighter friends.

Take a magical ride on the Stanley Park Train, weaving through a forest alight with thousands of twinkling lights. Even without train tickets, visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, participate in a scavenger hunt, and marvel at the breathtaking installations. More than a holiday outing, Bright Nights supports the BC Professional Firefighters’ Burn Fund, raising over $2.5 million since 1998. It’s a celebration of community, generosity, and the magic of the season.

10. Canyon lights

Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where the iconic Canyon Lights illuminate the rainforest in a breathtaking display. The park glows with millions of sparkling lights, creating a magical winter wonderland for all ages. Stroll across the suspension bridge as it radiates with multi-colored lights spanning the canyon, offering unforgettable views. Explore the Cliffwalk, with its twinkling path along the granite cliffside, and marvel at the Treetops Adventure, where towering Douglas-firs are brilliantly lit from top to bottom.

Enjoy festive treats, sip rich hot chocolate, and soak in live holiday music. Don’t forget to capture picture-perfect moments and join in on fun activities for kids. With cherished favorites and exciting new displays, Canyon Lights is a must-see holiday tradition.

As we close out the year and look ahead to a fresh chapter, we encourage you to find joy in the small moments that make the season truly magical. Whether it’s gathering with loved ones, giving back, or simply appreciating the beauty around you, these traditions remind us to slow down and savour what matters most.

From all of us at First Impression Designs, thank you for being a part of our journey this year. Wishing you a holiday season filled with warmth, inspiration, and the promise of exciting new beginnings in the year ahead.

Happy Thursday!

Christmas Festivities in Vancouver