As the festive season of 2025 arrives, residents and visitors in Metro Vancouver are planning their activities for the Christmas and Boxing Day holidays. Knowing what services and venues are operating is key to a smooth holiday experience.
Statutory Holiday Status and Long Weekend
In Canada, Christmas Day, December 25, is a nationwide statutory holiday. Most employees are entitled to the day off or receive overtime pay if they work. Boxing Day, December 26, is not a statutory holiday in British Columbia, unlike some other provinces. This year, the holidays fall on a Thursday and Friday, offering many people the chance for a four-day weekend.
Retail and Shopping Hours
For those seeking last-minute gifts on December 25th, options are extremely limited. All major shopping malls will be closed on Christmas Day. Shoppers may find gift cards at some open convenience stores or pharmacies.
The retail landscape changes dramatically for Boxing Day on December 26, with most centres opening early and closing late for post-holiday sales. Here is a breakdown of major mall hours:
- Pacific Centre (Downtown Vancouver) & Richmond Centre: Open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Metropolis at Metrotown (Burnaby): Open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Boxing Day, with extended hours also on Sunday, December 28 (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.).
- The Amazing Brentwood (Burnaby): Operating regular Boxing Day hours.
- Guildford Town Centre (Surrey): Open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Coquitlam Centre: Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Tsawwassen Mills (Delta): Open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- McArthurGlen Designer Outlet (Richmond): Launching a Boxing Week event, open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from December 26 through December 30.
Both Tsawwassen Mills and McArthurGlen note that shopping tends to be quieter later in the evening.
For groceries, most major supermarkets will be closed on Christmas Day but resume regular operating hours on Boxing Day. All Costco locations in the Lower Mainland are closed December 25 and reopen on Boxing Day from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Government-run BC Liquor Stores are closed on Christmas Day but will be open on Boxing Day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Shoppers are advised to check the BCL website for specific location details. Some private liquor stores may be open on the 25th, but calling ahead is recommended.
Attractions, Recreation, and Services
While many institutions close for Christmas, some family-friendly options remain available. A notable highlight is the Robson Square ice rink in downtown Vancouver, which will be open both holidays.
Cultural venues have varied schedules. The Vancouver Art Gallery will be closed on Christmas Day but welcomes visitors on Boxing Day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Most other museums and major attractions are expected to be closed on December 25.
Public transit in Metro Vancouver typically operates on a Sunday/holiday schedule on Christmas Day, with regular service resuming on Boxing Day, though specific route changes should be confirmed with TransLink.
By planning ahead with this guide, Vancouverites can navigate the 2025 holiday season efficiently, whether they're aiming for a relaxed family day or gearing up for Boxing Day sales and activities.
