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It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Get into the holiday spirit this festive season in Vancouver with activities for everyone including award-winning productions, outdoor adventures, gingerbread house competitions and bright nights in Stanley Park.

December 4th, 2019

ICE SKATING AT ROBSON SQUARE
Robson Square Ice Rink, 800 Robson St

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver adjacent the Vancouver Art Gallery, Robson Square offers a charming metropolitan ice rink enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Skate rentals are available on site. Check with the Concierge for ice rink hours, which become available mid-late November.

VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET
Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver | November 20 – December 24

The Vancouver Christmas Market is guaranteed to get you in the festive mood. Stroll through the decorated outdoor German styled Christmas village and be treated to row upon row of illuminated wooden huts offering handmade gifts and tempting treats. Listen to the sounds of bells, trumpeters and carolers. As day becomes night, thousands of Christmas lights sparkle and delicious aromas of mulled wine and spicy gingerbread waft through the air. Use parking code ‘BEMERRY’ for $28 self-parking at Fairmont Pacific Rim (max five hours). For valet parking, please see our Doorperson—the one with the hat!

AURORA WINTER FESTIVAL
PNE Grounds, 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver | November 22, 2019 – January 5, 2020

This holiday season, Canada’s largest winter festival is coming, transforming Hastings Park PNE fair grounds into a magical winter wonderland! This hidden village oasis includes a beautiful skating rink, tube park, light displays, Christmas market, amusement rides, food gardens, magical characters, among other exciting activities.

CANYON LIGHTS AT CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver | November 22, 2019 – January 26, 2020

Glittering lights, towering heights and festive nights—re-capture the feeling of wonder and excitement of the holiday season. Be amazed by the hundreds of thousands of lights throughout the park, suspension bridge, Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk, as the rainforest and canyon transform into a world of festive lights and visual enchantment. See 30-ton Douglas firs lit above and below the collars, go on a Snowy Owl Prowl, decorate gingerbread cookies and make your own Christmas card, and sing along with the holiday band. Complimentary shuttle service is available from Canada Place.

GOH BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER
Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 630 Hamilton St, Vancouver | December 20 – 22, 2019

A holiday classic and a favourite Vancouver tradition, Goh Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker provides aspiring dancers with an exceptional performance opportunity, bringing together the best local talent and Principal Dancers from world renowned professional companies on the stage at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Experience Clara’s dream come to life as she embarks on a magical journey through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets where she is greeted by the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy. An unforgettable adventure awaits as her gallant Nutcracker battles the evil Mouse King and his army of mischievous mice. This heart-warming production is sure to delight audiences of all ages with more than 200 dancers, actors, gymnasts, glittering costumes, dramatic sets and valuable lessons—all danced to Tchaikovsky’s memorable score performed live by members of the Vancouver Opera Orchestra. Providing a one-of-a-kind mentorship opportunity gained whilst dancing alongside professionals, Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker strives to push aspiring dancer’s accomplishments to the next level preparing them to take to the stage with assurance.

BRIGHT NIGHTS STANLEY PARK TRAIN
Stanley Park Railway, 690 Pipeline Road, Vancouver | November 28, 2019 – January 1, 2020

During the holiday season, Stanley Park sparkles with two million twinkling lights, decorating the darkness that comes early at this time of year. Make the Bright Nights Train part of your holiday tradition—ride the train, watch animated displays, listen to holiday classics, sip warm cocoa, and feast on fresh popcorn or roasted nuts. Partial proceeds from the sale of Bright Nights tickets go to the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, which helps burn survivors and their families. Over the past 15 years, $1.4 million has been raised. Donations will be accepted at the front gate. Buy your tickets in advance to make sure you get on the train at your preferred time.

Matinee Train
Nov 29 – Dec 1 11:30am – 2:30pm
Dec 6 – 8; 13 – 15; 20 – 24 11:30am – 2:30pm
Dec 25 Closed
Dec 26 – 29 11:00am – 2:30pm

Evening Train
Nov 28 – Dec 19 3:00pm – 10:00pm
Dec 20 – 29 3:00pm – 11:00pm
Dec 24 3:00pm – 10:00pm
Dec 25 Closed
Dec 30 – Jan 1 3:00pm – 10:00pm

GINGERBREAD LANE, A GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION
Hyatt Regency, 655 Burrard St, Vancouver | November 29 – December 27

Hyatt Regency Vancouver is delighted to announce the return of the most awaited holiday event. The 2019 Gingerbread Lane is open to the public and invites professional, amateurs, companies/organizations, and high school students to participate in this year’s event. The public will vote on their favourite display and donate to Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon and the entry that receives the most votes will win the People’s Choice Award and a fantastic prize. This annual event is a production in collaboration with Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon Canada and the participants who dedicate their time and efforts to create the incredible displays and share the spirit of the season with the viewing public. Judging of entries will be on Tuesday, November 26. The winners will be announced at the Opening Reception on Thursday, November 28.

FLY LIKE SANTA AT FLY OVER CANADA
Canada Place, 201 – 999, Vancouver | November 21, 2019 – January 5, 2020

Experience the magic of Christmas this December as you fly across Canada and up to the North Pole with Santa.

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