3 Holiday Events in Vancouver

Well, guys, here it is, the first of December. I’m not totally sure where the year has gone, or even, for that matter, the last coupe of years, but it’s nice to be back in a place where things feel like they are more “normal” again.

Last year, there were still a lot of restrictions around this time, so it was still a bit tricky when it came to holiday events, but this year, things seem to be pretty on par with 2019.

If you’re looking to get into the swing of the Holiday Season, and maybe pick up a few goodies along the way for yourself or for others (PS Gift Guide coming next week!), here are 3 Holiday Events in Vancouver you’ll want to check out (in no particular order):

The Vancouver Christmas Market

at Jack Poole Plaza till Dec 24

To me, going to the Vancouver Christmas Market is always the kickoff to the Holiday Season. it feels like “okay, NOW Christmas can begin!” This year’s market is bigger than ever. Yes, they have all your favourites, like Glühwein (rumour is they have a new flavour this year, but I’ve not yet tried it), loads of tasty food, photo opportunities, and lots of great local vendors that you can shop at for gift-giving. Oh! And the Carousel. You gotta ride the carousel!

There are some new twists this year as well. They’ve added 22,000 additional lights to the centre of the plaza, and it’s really bright and sparkly.

Here are the vegan food vendors at this year’s market:

• Da Bomb Goodies (vegan hot chocolate bombs)
• Perfectly Nuts
• Love Da Grub (delicious condiments made from rescued produce)
• Maple Rush (maple syrup & goodies made from maple syrup)
• Taste The Wild (vegan mushroom soup–YUM)
• Das Gulasch Haus (vegan stew served in a bread bowl)
• Traditional Spanish Churros (say no more!)
• Das Kartoffelhaus Hurricane Potatoes (potatoes on a stick, deep fried)
• Mr Hotcakes (they do this filled pancaked thingy that tastes like cinnamon rolls)

There are lots more as well that are vegetarian, like Those Pretzels, which, OMG if you know, you know. They’re insanely addictive. Buy the big bag.

Here’s my post from last year, I think most, if not all of the vendors are at the market this year again.

Glow Langley 

At 6690 216 St, Langley, BC until Dec 31

@findbex Checking out @glowlangley for the first time! #lights #christmas #holidayseason #holidays #christmastimeishere #sparkly #christmasevent #festive #spirit #christmastime #experience #media #gifted ♬ Christmas Party – Kush Mody

I’m a big city girl, so I don’t that often make it out as far as Langley unless I have a reason, and Glow is a very good reason to make the trek! This year was actually my first year going, and I was blown away. There are literally millions of lights. It’s a huge space, and it goes on and on and on. Like, just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s more.

Glow is especially good for young families, everything is stroller accessable, and there are so many activities for the kiddos, including Santa! They also have a section with food trucks if you get hungry, and there are multiple stations through out the premises where you can grab a hot drink to warm you up, as the entire thing is mostly outdoors, or in tents.

There is one main area indoors where there’s music, some vendors, and an indoor light-up playground with teeter tooters and swings.

Selfie opportunities abound here, so be sure to take your Christmas family photos while you’re here. This would also make a great date night activity with your sweetie.

I loved it! And will definitely go back.

The Polygon Gallery/ Shipyards District

at Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver till Dec 24

@findbex Self-Care Sunday: a little boat ride, a little shopping, a little art, a little coffee…. #vibe #sunday #selfcare #selfcaresunday #love #vancouver #lonsdale #buylocal #supportlocal #shopsmall ♬ Sky Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

This is a lovely way to spend a day or an evening. Grab a Seabus from Waterfront Centre and take a little cruise over to Lonsdale Quay. Once you’re there, there’s so much fun Christmassy stuff to do.

Skating at the Shipyards. Bring your own skates or rent them. Skating is free from 1-8pm, and it’s so lovely. I did it last year, and will go again this year.

Art & Shopping: Head to The Polygon Gallery to take in  a little art and culture. The current show is called Home, Sweet Home by Rydel Cerezo. Admission is by donation. While you’re there, check out the Little Mountain Holiday Pop Up Shop. These are all local products, and many are vegan. There were sooooo many of my fave local brands here. I love supporting local businesses while buying gifts at Christmas.

Finally, grab some food before heading back home on the Seabus. I hit up Nemisis for a coffee, but there are lots of other options nearby as well, like Tap & Barrel, Nook, or Pier 7.

Those are my picks for 3 Holiday Events in Vancouver. What are your favourite holiday activities in Vancouver? Comment them down below!