The festive spirit is officially descending upon Metro Vancouver. As December's crisp air arrives, the region is preparing for a season filled with twinkling lights, outdoor skating, and holiday markets. From iconic downtown traditions to enchanting botanical displays, here is your essential guide to the must-visit Christmas events happening across Metro Vancouver in 2025.
Iconic Vancouver Holiday Traditions
Two cornerstone events are set to define the Vancouver holiday season once again. The beloved Robson Square outdoor skating rink is now open for its seasonal run. Located at 800 Robson Street, the rink welcomes skaters seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., starting Friday, November 28, 2025, and continuing until February 28, 2026, weather permitting. Hours are reduced to noon until 5 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Skate rentals are available for $5, with free rentals offered on Family Day. The rink, which attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, will feature live music nightly from December 13 to 24 between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., with additional weekend performances from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors can also warm up with hot chocolate and snacks from the on-site concession.
Meanwhile, the VanDusen Festival of Lights transforms the botanical garden into a luminous wonderland. Running from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026, this display features more than one million lights across 15 acres. New for 2025 are interactive installations like Wood Wide Web and Salmon Run, inspired by BC's Great Bear Rainforest.
Admission is $29 for adults, $19 for seniors, and $12 for children aged 5 to 12. The popular Dancing Lights show returns with performances every 20 minutes. For a quieter experience, a sensory-friendly visit is recommended on Tuesday, December 2.
Local Markets and Community Festivities
Beyond the large-scale attractions, community-focused events offer a cozy holiday atmosphere. The Wesbrook Village Holiday Market returns for its second year at Norman MacKenzie Square, south of the UBC campus. This free event runs from November 28 to December 21, 2025, with varying hours.
The market showcases local artisans, festive lights, and live music, creating a perfect backdrop for holiday shopping. Visitors are encouraged to grab a hot chocolate from nearby vendors like Blenz or Doughgirls as they browse unique crafts and goods.
Plan Your Festive Season
This list represents just the beginning of the holiday cheer spreading across Metro Vancouver. New events and activities are expected to be announced throughout the season. Residents and visitors are advised to bookmark event pages and check for updates as more festive details are confirmed.
From gliding on the ice at Robson Square to wandering through a million lights at VanDusen, the opportunities to create lasting holiday memories are plentiful. Prepare your hot cocoa, gather your loved ones, and dive into the most joyful season of the year right here in Metro Vancouver.
