🎄 Fantastic Things to Do in Vancouver This Week: Dec. 15 to 21

The holiday season is in full swing, and Vancouver is absolutely glowing with festive magic! If you're wondering how to make the most of this enchanting week, you're in for a treat. From free downtown attractions to world-class performances, the city is serving up holiday experiences that'll create memories to last a lifetime.

Whether you're a local looking for fresh adventures or a visitor wanting to experience Vancouver's holiday charm, this week offers something extraordinary for everyone. Let's dive into the fantastic lineup of events that'll make your December absolutely unforgettable!

🎄Free Holiday Magic Downtown

Here's a gift that keeps on giving—the downtown holiday Ferris wheel is offering FREE rides every Tuesday throughout December! There's nothing quite like seeing the city sparkle from above, especially when it's dressed up in holiday lights. Since this week includes Tuesday, December 16th, it's the perfect opportunity to kick off your adventures and get those Instagram-worthy shots of Vancouver's winter wonderland from the North Plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery.

• Check Details: For hours and location, visit the Destination Downtown event page.

🎄 Musical Moments That'll Give You Chills

Music lovers, get ready! Two massive, world-class events are hitting the stage this week:

• CPKC Holiday Train: The iconic, brightly decorated train, featuring the Barenaked Ladies, is rolling into the Metro Vancouver area on December 19th and 20th. This magical experience combines live music with the nostalgic charm of a decorated train, all while supporting local food banks.

  • Check Schedule: Find specific Metro Vancouver stop times on the CPKC Holiday Train page.

• VSO's Elf in Concert: The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is presenting Elf in Concert at the Orpheum Theatre on December 19th and 20th, bringing the beloved holiday movie to life with a full, live orchestral soundtrack.

  • Get Tickets: Purchase tickets directly from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra website.

🎄 Family Fun That Creates Lasting Memories

Families are absolutely spoiled for choice this week!

• Festive Village at Burnaby Village Museum: Our local favourite, the Festive Village (formerly Heritage Christmas) celebration, transports you back in time with authentic holiday traditions and thousands of twinkling lights. Starting December 16th, the village will be open daily until 9:00 pm!

  • Plan Your Visit: See all hours and event details on the City of Burnaby Festive Village page.

• The Nutcracker Ballet: Don't miss the beloved classic by Goh Ballet at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre from December 18th to 21st. It’s a holiday tradition that never gets old and introduces kids to the magic of live performance.

  • Book Now: Secure your seats via the Goh Ballet's The Nutcracker official website.

• Holiday Splash at the Vancouver Aquarium, featuring over one million twinkling lights and Scuba Claus. It's the kind of experience that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.

  • Find Tickets: Visit the Vancouver Aquarium website for entry details.

Your Vancouver Holiday Adventure Awaits

Vancouver truly delivers holiday magic at every turn this week. From free attractions to world-class performances, cultural experiences to family fun, there's no shortage of ways to embrace the festive spirit.

So grab your calendar, round up your loved ones, and start planning your Vancouver holiday adventure. Which event are you most excited about? The city is waiting to create some holiday magic with you!