December must be the busiest month on the calendar. There are oodles of family-friendly holiday events to check out plus family gatherings, parties with friends, concerts at school, and the list goes on! With so many events happening, it’s easy to miss out on your favourites. That’s why we put in the work to make sure you know what holiday events are coming up so you can schedule them into your social calendar!


Breakfast with Santa

Tis the season to say “hello” to the man in the red suit! If you’re looking to share your thoughts with Santa over a cup of coffee and some pancakes, check out our guide to Breakfast with Santa events. Register early for these as they fill up fast!


Christmas Tree Farms

Do you get a real tree every year? If so you’ll want to look at our Complete Guide to Christmas Tree Farms. There’s nothing like the smell of a freshly cut tree in your home. If artificial trees are more your speed, you can always spend a day at a Tree Farm taking in the other activities, like bonfires, wagon rides, and hot apple cider.


Holiday Craft Fairs & Markets.

The holiday craft fairs started in November and are still running strong through December. Whether you’re after one-of-a-kind unique gifts, some knitted winter wear to keep you warm, or some delectable homemade baked goods, there is a craft market to satisfy every shopper’s needs. Personally, I just enjoy persuing the many offerings in the hopes that something special catches my eye.


Best Christmas Light DisplaysChristmas Light Displays

My kids get ridiculously excited when we discover a house dripping in holiday lights. Every year we spend at least one night driving around, standing in awe in front of people’s homes dazzled by their lights & creativity. Every year we build our Christmas Light Display Listing from scratch – we ask readers to submit addresses and we update our list as fast as possible. If you know of an address we’ve missed, please send us an email (vancouver@familyfunvancouver.com)


Hands down, my favourite event of the season is Lights at Lafarge. Lafarge Lake is conveniently located next to a skytrain station, and there are many parking lots to accommodate vehicles. The walk is mostly paved and there are plenty of places to stop for some great photo opportunities. Food vendors are on-site with tasty treats and warm beverages.


The hilarious English panto tradition returns to East Vancouver. You don’t want to miss out on seeing the East Van Panto: Beauty and the Beast. Perfect for families with kids aged 6+. Get ready to laugh your socks off!


The CP Holiday Train is back in person this year and making its way across the country! This year features a concert with Tyler Shaw and Kiesza.


The popular Canyon Lights display is back at Capilano Suspension Bridge. Check out millions of twinkling lights as they illuminate the iconic bridge, the Treetop Canopy, and the Cliffside Walk. Purchase a BC Resident Annual Pass, which is the same price as a single day admission, and you will be able to return throughout the year for no additional cost!


Mixed Nuts is a show that you won’t want to miss! Featuring a flavoursome combination of dance styles from hip-hop to ballroom, Mixed Nuts brings The Nutcracker into the 21st century to connect with modern audiences in a new way. Step into the world of Clara and her Nutcracker for an evening of whimsy and exceptional dance as audiences see this classic story transform through a diverse array of genres and dance styles


The Christmas Train is back at Bear Creek Park and is a great option if you have train aficionados in your life! Choose from either a day-time train or an evening ride through a beautiful light display. The evening tickets sell out fast, so make sure to book in advance!


The VSO is on the move this holiday season bringing their “Traditional Christmas” concert to a venue near you. From December 6-16th, hear the talented musicians play holiday classics, listen to soloists and guest performers, and be enthralled with the storytelling of Christopher Gaze.


If you’re looking for a show that is sure to dazzle the whole family, don’t miss Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA from now until December 31st. Send 2023 out with a bang watching talented performers going to great lengths to entertain the audience with their skill and training.


For a complete listing of all the best events around Metro Vancouver, click on our calendarand stay tuned to all the best local family events through our FacebookInstagram and Tik Tok.