It’s hard to believe that Christmas is less than a week away! With that in mind, we’ve packed this edition of our Vancouver weekend guide with plenty of festive picks to help keep you on-track and in the holiday spirit.
North Vancouver Shipyards Christmas Market
If you haven’t already made your way over to North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay this holiday season, we suggest grabbing the Seabus and heading there this weekend. Check out the North Vancouver Shipyards Christmas Market and you’ll be treated to a German-style pop-up marketplace completely transformed into a winter wonderland featuring 50 local artisans, food trucks, a light display, and festivities.
Blim Christmas Market
In the spirit of holiday shopping (and perhaps scoring a little something for yourself), head to the Blim Christmas Market this Saturday at the Fox Cabaret. Pick up some thoughtful, handmade gifts like jewelry, vintage décor items, ethical toys, baked goods, artwork, and more. It all takes place at 2321 Main Street.
13th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Dig out your ugliest sweater and get set to celebrate the season in a most unstylish way at the 13th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at the Commodore Ballroom. This is the largest party of its kind on the coast and features live music, giveaways, caroling, an eggnog chugging contest, and more – all for a great cause. Get more details here.
21st Annual Winter Solstice Lantern Festival
Unleash your inner hippie and head out to celebrate the 21st Annual Winter Solstice Lantern Festival (on December 21, no less). Be sure to grab tickets to experience the festival’s Labyrinth of Light, taking place at either Performance Works or at the Roundhouse Community Centre. Try your hand at crafting your own paper lantern at a workshop and join in the fun when it comes time to cruise the city streets celebrating this magical time of year.
The Nutcracker
Use this weekend to unwind and grab tickets to The Goh Ballet’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s Christmas classic, The Nutcracker, for a serious treat. Performances take place at The Centre (777 Homer Street) and you’ll love the decadent costumes, effects, and live music (performed by the Vancouver Opera Orchestra) as this classic tale is brought to life. The show’s run ends on December 22 – so don’t wait.
Dundarave Festival of Lights
Be sure to head out to the Dundarave Festival of Lights on Saturday if you happen to be in the West Van hood. Aside from the fact that the party takes place on the beach with a stunning view of the city, Stanley Park, and Vancouver Island (insert gloating here), you’ll be kept warm by plenty of festive offerings (free concerts, giant bonfire, hot chocolate, and more). Pop into one of our favourites, Temper Pastry, for a sweet treat and pick up last minute stocking stuffers while you’re at it, too.
Where will you be heading to this weekend in Vancouver? Let Vv Magazine know your thoughts on “VAN: What’s On This Weekend In Vancouver” in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.