Vancouver Exhibitions, Markets, and More!

Vancouver is home to all sorts of attractions and delights, from world-class restaurants to internationally acclaimed concerts, to festivals, exhibitions, markets, and more—Vancouver is eternally a hotbed of activity for all to enjoy. Throughout the summer and, in particular, coming up in August, there’s lots to feast your appetite when it comes to outdoor events. Here’s our recommendations for some of the best things to do in August in Vancouver . . .

THE PACIFIC NATIONAL EXHIBITION (PNE)

Since 1910, the PNE has entertained millions of guests providing exhibits, shows, concerts, the annual summer fair, cultural experiences, and more. The PNE will arrive on August 20th this year and run through until September 5th. As always, the fair will take place at their location on Hastings, next to Playland so visitors can enjoy all the thrilling rides and take in the fair in one glorious location.

Hailed as the longest running and best attended annual ticketed event in BC, the PNE has hosted historic acts, including the Beatles, and continues to entertain every single year and this year is no exception. This year’s concert series includes The Barenaked Ladies, Blue Rodeo, Cake, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Visit the PNE for some of the best entertainment in Vancouver—fun for the entire family.

GRANVILLE ISLAND MARKET

In operation since 1979, the Granville Island indoor market is home to around fifty merchants and is a massive draw for tourists and locals alike. The mix of vendors changes every week, offering a wide range of diverse selections when it comes to boutique shopping and tantalizing food offerings. The market is open seven days a week from 9am to 6pm and the indoor venue means it’s a great place to visit no matter the weather. The waterfront area outside the market has picnic tables and the surrounding area boasts art galleries and unique shopping experiences aplenty. 

DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET

Formerly known as the Yaletown Farmers Market, the Downtown Farmers Market takes place on Wednesday afternoons from 2pm-6pm in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery on Hornby Street and runs until October 5th. Here you’ll discover fresh fruits and vegetables, plus vendors selling art, toys, clothing, gifts, crafts, and more, all accompanied by live music. 

RICHMOND NIGHT MARKET

Modeled after Asian night markets, the Richmond Night Market is the largest of its kind in North America. The food vendors alone are enough to warrant a visit, but you’d better bring an appetite. Food is cooked fresh in front of you and the air is filled with delectable smells of crab meat noodles, brazilian pastries, sausage, ice cream, ramen, and more. There are over 70 food stalls and over 100 retails stalls, plus live music and entertainment at the main stage and carnival stalls for everyone to enjoy.

NORTH VANCOUVER SHIPYARDS

The shipyard district in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale is a functioning shipyard, but also plays host to boutique shopping, specialty food, galleries, restaurants, antique stores, and more. Steeped in history and full of shopping excursion possibilities, The Shipyard truly captures the spirit of Vancouver’s North Shore.

With the markets providing so many shopping and dining options, there’s simply no shortage of possibilities when you visit Vancouver. When you do visit, make sure you book with stayvancouverhotels.com for all the best deals in the city! We offer amazing accommodations for your stay and provide exclusive offers including bike rentals, tickets to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, iTunes, and shopping. Learn more!

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Vancouver Takes Entertainment Outdoors

July in Vancouver is crammed full of amazing outdoor activities and events that are fun for all ages! If you’re a Vancouver resident or traveling to our magnificent city this month, you’ll find there’s more than enough to occupy your time. The arts and entertainment scene comes alive in the early summer on the west coast and visitors can revel in everything from outdoor cinematic experiences to world-class fireworks displays. Here’s a look at several different entertaining ways to spend your time throughout the month of July: 

Feature Movies in the Park Stanley Park

The annual Summer Cinema event at Stanley park is returning in 2022 with movie screenings taking place every Tuesday (weather permitting) after sunset. As in past years, the public gets to vote on what movies they’d like to see. This annual series invites visitors to bring their own chair or blanket and enjoy a free outdoor movie experience. No tickets or reservations required. Those wishing to attend are asked to show up at the Grand Lawn at Ceperley Meadow in the park (near Second Beach). The space can accommodate up to 5,000 people. Anyone wanting to make it an extra special experience can purchase a general admission ticket to the VIP seating area at the front of the lawn. The movies for July include The Lion King, Zoolander, Jurassic Park, and Top Gun. 

Downtown Vancouver BIA Summer Movie Nights and Activations

If an outdoor movie in the park isn’t your scene, then you could always stay closer to the city and take in the Summer Movie Night series outside the šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square

(formerly known as the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza) located on Hornby Street. From July 7th to August 18th, you can check out amazing activations from 4pm followed by an outdoor movie screening at 9pm. The activations this year include hula-hooping, drum circles, choirs, music, and more. On Thursday July 28th, there will be a special Pride takeover with drag performances and music by DJ Black Cat. Food trucks are also on-site and attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating. The movies for July include Mean Girls, Jumanji, Spiderman: No Way Home, and Moulin Rouge.

Bard on the Beach at Vanier Park 

What light through yonder window breaks? If you’re into live performance and passionate about Shakespeare, you have to take in a performance of Bard on the Beach at Sen̓ákw/Vanier Park. Performances run through until September and take place in two modern performance tents against a spectacular backdrop of mountains, sea and sky. Get whisked away into the magical worlds of the bard with this year’s theatrical performances of Romeo & Juliet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Tickets are available from the Bard on the Beach website and the site also offers additional activities and educational opportunities offered throughout the season. 

Celebration of Lights

On July 27th, the Honda Celebration of Light returns to Vancouver. You think you may have seen a fireworks display, but you’ve seen nothing until you’ve seen the Celebration of Light. Taking place at English Bay, this fireworks show accompanied by music that’s streamed across the bay and numerous outdoor seating lounges are sure to delight as the sky is lit up in spectacular fashion. You can either view the program from various locations around Vancouver (it’s highly visible) or purchase tickets and enjoy a seating in one of the lounges. Learn more.

Patio Vancouver

In 2021, the City of Vancouver approved special permits to expand patios throughout the city of Vancouver making it easier to be social outdoors and come together with friends and family to enjoy all the eats and treats Vancouver has to offer. This year, Patio Vancouver has launched a fun and interactive campaign to get residents and visitors alike to experience more than 400 patios in and around the city. Simply check out the Patio Map and start exploring!

No matter whether you’re heading into town for business, pleasure, or both, be sure to book with stayvancouverhotels.com for the absolute best deals in town! Not only do we offer great places to stay, but we provide exclusive offers including bike rentals, event tickets, and gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, iTunes, and shopping. Until the end of July, you can even pick up a $75 GC to spend on shopping at the CF Pacific Centre. Learn more.

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The 5 Best Places to Hike, Bike, and Run in Vancouver

Whether you exercise for health reasons (mental or physical) or that wonderful rush of endorphins, it’s still important to get those exercise hours in when visiting a different city. If you’re going to be heading to the Vancouver area, you’re in luck! Western Canada’s biggest city has numerous opportunities to get your sweat on, and even better, it’s a beautiful place to work out. Here are 5 of the best places to hike, bike, and run in Vancouver:

1) The Grouse Grind

Operational since May 2017, the Grouse Grind has become a staple for hikers and runners wanting to prove their mettle against a trail that’s as challenging as it is steep. Located in North Vancouver, this trail has a 300 meter elevation and climbs 2.5 kilometers up Grouse Mountain. Rugged terrain, shifting weather, and a beautiful forest atmosphere round out this challenging trail that is not for the faint of heart. Like really, if you have heart problems, give it a miss. Remember to snap your picture at the top with your climb time! And then enjoy the gondola ride down (it’s mandatory as downhill hiking isn’t allowed due to the steep terrain).

2) Jericho Beach (by UBC)

Enjoy the sprawl of the University of British Columbia with this charming run or ride around the extensive campus—which is a self-contained city within a city. The trail takes you along the waterfront of Jericho Beach and then around the outskirts of the campus passing the Museum of Anthropology, the UBC Botanical Garden, and the Greenheart TreeWalk. 

3) Stanley Park Seawall Loop

It’s impossible to talk about the perfect running and biking route in Vancouver and not mention the seawall around Stanley Park. This 9.25 km loop is a runner/cyclist’s dream, winding around the outside of Stanley Park along the waterfront. There’s lots of opportunities to modify your route, take a forest trail, run along a beach, or even take a step further and head to English Bay after your workout and enjoy the restaurants and shops of this picturesque beach community. 

4) Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Close to UBC, the Pacific Spirit Regional Park sports unpaved bike and running paths that cut through beautiful forested areas. Located on the west side of Vancouver, the trail network spans more than 750 hectares of forest and is accessible year round. There’s no specific recommended route, simply because there’s so many trails to choose from. Be sure to check out a trail map and plan the best route to suit your wants and needs.

5) Yaletown (Kitsilano Beach)

If you’re looking for a more city-centric trail for running or biking, you can visit the upscale locale of Yaletown. This waterfront path leads you along the waterfront from the Yaletown Ferry Dock, through parks, across the Burrard Street bridge and through Kits Beach. You can enjoy breath-taking views along False Creek and pass by Vancouver landmarks including Science World. 

Bonus fun for Après Run!

Dragon Boat Festival in False Creek with Science World

In June, you can also see the world famous Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival. taking place at False Creek and surrounding parks as racers from around the world partake in North America’s flagship dragon boat festival.

Vancouver International Jazz Festival at David Lam Park

If you’re a jazz enthusiast, be sure to check out the 36th annual TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival. Taking place from June 24th to July 3rd. The 11-day festival features 700 artists and 200 performances at 19 venues, along with more than 60 free shows. 

If you’re heading into town, for business or pleasure, be sure to book with stayvancouverhotels.com for the best deals in town! You can get bike rentals and gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, receive a flight voucher, or grab a $75 GC to spend on shopping at the CF Pacific Centre. Learn more.

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It’s Wine O’Clock in Vancouver This May

May 2022 events in Vancouver cater to a number of different types of people: those that love to run, those that love to cruise, and those that appreciate a fine glass of chardonnay. No matter which category you fall into, there’s always something for everyone happening in Western Canada’s most popular travel destination. 

THE VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL

Happening May 16th-22nd, Canada’s premier food and wine event aims to provide an informative, educational, and entertaining experience for all. The festival has a long rich history having run for 43 years, it’s one of the biggest and oldest wine events in the entire world. There are numerous events tied to the festival including seminars, vintage tastings, winery dinners, lunches, wine minglers, beach parties, brunches, and more. 

The central component of the festival is the Tasting Room located at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Here the public can tantalize their taste buds choosing from over 750 wines at four individual International Festival Tastings. An additional 45 special events in and around Vancouver that include everything from social minglers to gala dinners feature another combined 550 different wines. If you love wine, then the Vancouver International Wine Festival should be your own slice of heaven. Receive a free festival ticket when you book your accommodations through Stay Vancouver Hotels. Learn more. 

THE BMO VANCOUVER MARATHON  

If running long distances alongside other adventurous athletes is your idea of a good time, then the BMO Vancouver Marathon is the place to be. Recognized by Forbes, CNN, and USA Today as one of the top destination running events in the world, the Vancouver Marathon is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year!

Taking place on Sunday May 1st, the marathon offers 8km, half-marathon, and full marathon options. Runners can experience the sites of Vancouver as they run across parks, beaches, and the picturesque Vancouver Seawall. Registration is now open with in-person and virtual racing options available.  Learn more.

CRUISE SEASON LAUNCH

The 2022 cruise season has officially launched! After a long two years of prohibiting cruise ships in Canadian waters as a direct response to COVID-19, the prohibition was officially lifted in November 2021. As per tradition, the cruise season officially launched last month when the Holland America Line ship, Koningsdam docked at the Canada Place cruise terminal at the Port of Vancouver. This year, approximately 300 cruise ships are expected to call at the Port of Vancouver. If you are taking a cruise from Vancouver there are special discounts available to you by simply showing your boarding pass with various retailers, restaurants and attractions see offers here.

Whether it’s your final destination, or you’re departing from Vancouver, be sure to stop a while and see the sites and events that make up this amazing city. Receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, receive a flight voucher, or grab an exclusive ticket to this year’s wine festival. Learn more. 

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Springing into Vancouver

Source: www.vcbf.ca

From festivals to sporting events and an Easter train ride that’s sure to please the little ones, there’s so much to do in Vancouver in April. Thanks to the mild climate of the coast, Vancouver is fortunate to see greenery and flowers growing earlier than many other parts of Canada. And with that milder weather comes the opportunity to explore and experience all that the lower mainland has to offer. Here are just a few highlights:

2022 Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival

An indication that spring has truly arrived is the annual Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival. Inspired by the ancient Japanese tradition of hanami (flower viewing), this community event runs from April 1st to the 23rd. For several weeks, while the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the event offers a variety of unifying community events kicking off with The Big Picnic at David Lam Park. Other events include a Haiku Invitational, Sakura Days Japan Fair, Tree Talks and Walks, and much more. Certainly a not-to-be-missed event for flower lovers.

The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series Tournament

On April 16th and 17th, the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series kicks off at BC Place. This stripped-down version of rugby union is fast-paced, energetic, and always a crowd-pleaser. Consisting of just two seven-minute halves and just seven players on each team, this exciting sport is not to be missed. The first day of the tournament sees each team take part in round-robin play within pools. On the second day, the bottom two teams of each pool will play each other, while the higher-seeded teams will battle it out for gold, silver, or bronze medals. You can get a Buy One Get One Free ticket offer for reserved tournament passes to this high octane event when you book with Stay Vancouver Hotels and use the promo code ‘Rugby7s’.

Stanley Park Railway Easter Train 2022

If you’re looking to shake up Easter this year with something a little different for the kids, you can always take a ride on the Stanley Park Railway Easter Train. Running from April 15th-18th, the train promises an egg-citing ride through the forests of Stanley Park in search of the Easter Bunny. Once the train ride concludes, kids have the chance to meet the actual Easter Bunny and explore the Bunny Burrow Maze.

The ‘Big Top’ has returned to Concord Pacific.

Take in a show. Alegría is an all-time Cirque du Soleil classic reimagined for a new generation to fall in love with. At the heart of a kingdom that has lost its king, Alegría witnesses the power struggle at play between the old order and a new movement yearning for hope and renewal.: 

Whether you’re looking for a festival, event, show, or just something fun to do with the family, there’s always lots on offer in BC’s largest city.

Visit downtown Vancouver this spring and discover the city for yourself and get the very best deals when you book through Stay Vancouver Hotels. Receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, rent a bike, experience Flyover Canada or take in a rugby game at BC Place Stadium. April is also your last chance to hit the local slopes for Spring Skiing. to take advantage of the FlyOver Canada experience. You can get two tickets to this interactive media experience when you book with Stay Vancouver Hotels before the end of April.

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

5 Amazing Things to Do in Vancouver This Spring

Spring in Vancouver is a time of change—the weather begins to warm and more people venture outside to visit the sites and attractions. If you’re looking to be a tourist in your own town or visiting from out of town, Stay Vancouver Hotels has compiled a top 5 list of things to do in Vancouver for the month of March. Say goodbye to winter, and let’s embrace the arrival of Spring with these amazing attractions!

1) Cycle Through Stanley Park

There’s no better way to explore the 400-hectares of natural West Coast rainforest in Stanley Park than by cycling. Enjoy the scenic views of water, mountains, and majestic trees and foliage while cycling along Stanley Park’s famous Seawall. You can venture around the entire perimeter or take the numerous paths through the forested areas and enjoy the culture and natural beauty of Vancouver’s most famous park. Until March 31st, in association with Cycle City, you can get two half-day bike rentals when you book with Stay Vancouver Hotels. Learn More

2) Visit Granville Island

No trip to Vancouver is complete without a visit to Granville Island. A culinary, artistic, and cultural hub, this slice of Vancouver is home to more than 300 businesses. The public market offers a variety of options for dining in, take-out, galleries, retails, boutique shopping, entertainment, and more.

3) FlyOver Canada

Ever wanted to feel the rush of exploring Canada from the air without ever hopping on a plane? Now you can through the magic of interactive technology combined with sweeping video footage of this beautiful country. FlyOver Canada utilizes state-of-the-art media to give you the sensation of flying while journeying across Canada from East to West. Special effects, including wind, mist, and scents, combined with the ride’s motion create an unforgettable experience. Get a free pair of tickets to FlyOver Canada with any Stay Vancouver Hotels booking when you use the special promo code. Learn More

4) Ski/Board at Grouse Mountain

While we’re certainly launching into spring, we’re still enjoying all that winter has to offer up on the local mountains. No matter your skill level, there’s plenty of snow fun to be had at the Vancouver ski resorts. Grouse Mountain in particular provides visitors access to some of the very best in winter sports activity. Located only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers 33 runs, four different chairlifts, and six terrain parks to explore. Until April 30th, use our special promo code when you book and receive free lift tickets to the mountain. Learn More

5) Capilano Suspension Bridge

If Flyover Canada and the heights of Grouse Mountain aren’t already making you lightheaded, why not try the Capilano Suspension Bridge? One of the Lower Mainland’s oldest attractions, the suspension bridge spans 137 meters and towers high above the rocky canyon floor. Check out the sites and take note of the wildlife in this beautiful area of Vancouver, BC. 

Spring has sprung and with it comes a sense of renewed adventure. As always, there’s something for all ages when it comes to Vancouver attractions. Stay Vancouver Hotels provides the best offers where you can stay and receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or even get $125 on a prepaid Mastercard. If you’re seeking adventure, grab lift tickets for a skiing/boarding excursion at a local mountain, or receive complimentary tickets to the FlyOver Canada attraction! Learn More.

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Discover the artistic side of Vancouver’s great outdoors, year-round!

Ever known for its artistic creativity, Vancouver comes alive even in the winter months with something for everyone to enjoy! This February take in several outdoor and cultural events right in the city’s downtown centre. Thinking about making it a staycation? Learn more about our special offers below!

VMF Winter Arts 

Source: Instagram

As the twinkle of holiday lights fade and we eagerly await spring’s blossoms, VMF Winter Arts arrives to brighten the city! From February 11-27, the second annual festival transforms downtown Vancouver into a free, all-ages, open-air gallery and celebration featuring augmented reality (AR) art, light installations and a licensed outdoor Hub with live entertainment, art, food and drinks. Learn more: winterartsfest.com / @winterartsfest. 

Plus, rain or shine all-year-round, explore over 300 murals across Vancouver! Download the free VMF App for a self-guided tour through the city’s various neighbourhoods to discover amazing murals by local (and international) artists while discovering local cafes, shops, restaurants, and breweries. (Bonus: visit from August 12-21 to experience the annual Vancouver Mural Festival celebrations!) vanmuralfest.ca / @vanmuralfest 

Vancouver PuSH Festival 

This international performing arts festival showcases local, Canadian and international artists and has been known to attract up to 20,000 attendees in years past! Enjoy groundbreaking, contemporary works of dance, theatre, multimedia and music in Vancouver theatres in January and February. This year the festival features a dozen different works from around the globe. Learn More.

Chinese New Year 2022

Link: https://unsplash.com/photos/Oh15EWXAMvI

This year, on Tuesday, February 1st visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden to welcome the Year of the Tiger! Several organized events have already taken place during the last week of January, however, this not-for-profit garden welcomes visitors during their regular opening hours to take and appreciate in this time of year. Learn more

Robson Square Ice Rink

Link: https://www.tripsavvy.com/guide-to-robson-square-in-vancouver-3371137 or alternate image https://604now.com/things-see-vancouver-winter/ 

Vancouver is welcoming back a traditional favourite. Enjoy old-fashioned winter fun at Robson Square’s outdoor rink and take in all this pacific west coast winter magic has to offer. This season you can even enjoy the warmth of the brand new indoor skate and rental cafe too! Learn more

Grouse Mountain

Really earn that Downtown Apres Ski and head out of town and enjoy a day at Grouse Mountain on us!  Enjoy skiing and snowboarding, snowshoe tours and terrain parks, Grouse Mountain has it all! Night-skiing runs daily until 10 pm and there are two express lifts for intermediate and advanced terrain. Learn more about our special free pass offer here.

Stay Vancouver Hotels provides amazing offers so you can stay and receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, FlyOver Canada, or even free lift tickets to hit the slopes at Grouse Mountain. 

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

Where to Hit the Slopes Near Downtown Vancouver This Winter

Winter is all about taking advantage of the amazing seasonal weather conditions! And the best way to do that is by giving your vacation, a vacation! Located minutes from all things Pacific West Coast, Vancouver is home base to multiple world-class ski resorts, all located just a very short drive from Downtown. Here’s your rundown of some of the best local hills for a day trip.

CYPRESS MOUNTAIN

Host to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Cypress Mountain is a short 34 minute drive from bustling Downtown Vancouver. You can even catch a bus from the Vancouver Art Gallery! There’s plenty of skiable terrain and the resort is geared to beginners and a family-friendly atmosphere. There are children’s lifts, a magic carpet, and a ski school for younger ages. There’s still plenty to do for non-skiers including snow tubing, snowshoeing, and enjoy the stunning views.

GROUSE MOUNTAIN

From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoe tours and terrain parks, Grouse Mountain has it all. Night-skiing runs daily until 10 pm and there’s not one, but two express lifts for intermediate and advanced terrain. Slopestyle skiers and boarders can find their rush in any one of the 6 different terrain parks and it’s located just a short 26-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. The best part!? Stay Vancouver Hotels is currently offering free lift passes when you book your stay!  

Grouse Mountain (Source: Planeware.com)

MOUNT SEYMOUR

Just over half an hour from Downtown Vancouver, you’ll find Mount Seymour, Vancouver’s only family-owned and operated ski resort. The mountain features a more friendly, family oriented vibe with a smaller overall ski area, but complemented with sledding and snow tubing for all-ages fun on the slopes.

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

The largest ski resort in North America and part of the 2010 Olympic Games, Whistler Blackcomb is famous for varied terrain, stunning views, and a packed ski village with every amenity imaginable. Located a 1.5 hour drive from downtown Vancouver, Whistler-Blackcomb provides world-class skiing that suits all age groups and abilities. The two mountains are linked by the Peak-2-Peak gondola and feature wide runs with long downhills to keep you slicing up the snow for hours. Even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, Whistler village is an experience unto itself with boutique shopping and fine dining at every turn.

APRÈS SKI

If the day trip worked up an appetite we have your remedy! The Dine Out Vancouver Festival is back January 14-30, 2022 for its 20th anniversary. Restaurant menus will be live as of January 6, 2022 so you can plan ahead. Take it all in with vacation specials and Downtown Vancouver hotel offers. Learn more.   

Don’t forget! Stay Vancouver Hotels provides amazing offers so you can stay and receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, FlyOver Canada, or even free lift tickets to hit the slopes at Grouse Mountain.

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

6 Ways to Get in the Christmas Spirit in Vancouver This December

The festive season is upon us! It’s time to grab those candy canes, string up the lights, and bring the tree indoors! Vancouver is a hotbed of activity when it comes to Christmas so there is lots to see and do.

Whether you’re looking to explore an artisan market or craft fair, take in the festive lights, or sample some delectable seasonal treats, there’s something for everyone in BC’s largest city. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, there’s so much to explore. Here are six ways you can get into the Christmas spirit this December in Vancouver:

Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain

What’s better than visiting the North Pole? Heading there straight after work! Visit the magical winter wonderland at Grouse mountain for some festive fun. Hop on a scenic gondola ride, take photos in a sparkling tunnel or even visit the Big Guy himself! That’s right, Santa has set up a satellite workshop right here at Grouse Mountain. Book ahead to join him for breakfast between December 18-24. The Peak of Christmas event runs from November 25th to January 3rd 2022. Feel like staying a bit longer? Learn how you can get FREE Grouse Mountain Winter Snow Lift tickets with your stay here.

Christmas at FlyOver Canada

FlyOver Canada is a multi-dimensional movie experience at Canada Place where you can virtually fly over Canada from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific and all the way up into the Arctic. During Christmas, the attraction adopts a winter holiday theme that runs through the Christmas season. The Christmas version of the experience features elves and has guests following Santa on his travels across our great country.

This is a great event for a number of reasons. Not only is it a unique interactive experience, but it’s also indoors which means you don’t have to worry about the weather.

The Christmas-themed film runs from December 9th, 2021, until January 3rd, 2022. If you book a stay through Stay Vancouver Hotels, you can receive two free tickets to FlyOver Canada!

Christmas Lights at Granville Island

Granville Island is an amazing place to visit at any time throughout the year, but at Christmas, the entire place is lit up for the season. There’s no charge for admission and there’s a massive selection of unique and wonderful things to see and do. Take some time to explore, sample the artisan foods, and shop at the boutique shops for that perfect Christmas gift.

Gift Big Shop Small

More of an overall campaign than a specific event, Gift Big Shop Small is in partnership with the Vancouver BIAs and encourages consumers to shop at local businesses during the Christmas season. The campaign includes some fun tie-in initiatives and events including media features, and neighbourhood prize draws. Shop local this year and find the perfect gift for friends and family on your shopping list.

The Vancouver Christmas Market

It’s impossible to list things to do at Christmas in Vancouver and not list the Vancouver Christmas Market. This German-themed outdoor holiday market features dozens of artisan food vendors and craft stalls with unique products and gifts for all ages. Located at Jack Poole Plaza, the event also comes complete with live entertainment and a carousel ride. The market is open daily between November 13th and December 24th.

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge

Everyone is welcome at the Capilano suspension bridge park and it is a sight to see!  Wander high above the forest floor at the Treetops Adventure or snap pictures in the mesmerizing “Arc de Lumina” light tunnel. Enjoy live festive tunes and even try your hand at the Snowy Owl Prowl scavenger hunt to win a Canadian Rockies trip. 

The event runs from November 20th until January 23, 2022. 

December is all about the run-up to Christmas and getting into the spirit of the season. Without a doubt, there’s something for all ages when it comes to Vancouver events. Stay Vancouver Hotels provides amazing offers where you can stay and receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, or get complimentary tickets to FlyOver Canada. Learn more here

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann

3 Seasonal Outdoor Events to Enjoy in Vancouver This November

If you’re looking to get in the festive spirit or even just looking for some fun date night or family fun ideas, there are lots to do in the month of November in Vancouver. As one of Canada’s busiest cities, there’s always something to do, no matter the time of year, but the transition from fall to winter comes with some extra special events. Whether you’re looking to light up the night at a Lumiere light installation, drink hot cocoa at a German-inspired Christmas market, or enjoy a stroll through CandyTown, there’s something for everyone.

Lumiere 2021

One of the most unique events that has happened every year in Vancouver for the past five years is the Lumiere art exhibit that takes place all over the city. The event features a number of art installations in well-known locations like Granville Island, English Bay, and Jim Deva Plaza. Inspired by light and artistic impression, Lumiere 2021 takes place from November 12th to 30th. Visit the various exhibits and enjoy the artistic expression, perfect for a night out on the town, a date, or a family outing. 

Vancouver Christmas Market

A throwback to festive old-world festivities, the Vancouver Christmas Market is a seasonal celebration of food, drink, shopping, and music. It’s the perfect place to find a gift for friends and loved ones at Christmas. The market features over 80 artisan huts offering handcrafted gifts, festive food, mulled wine, European beers and spirits, and sweet and savoury desserts of all kinds. 

The European-inspired village is located at Jack Poole Plaza and runs from November 13th to December 24th. Wander down lover’s lane, explore the walk-in Christmas tree, spend some quality time in the alpine lounge, or attach a lock at the love-lock installation. 

No matter your interests, there’s plenty to do and see! 

CandyTown Yaletown Holiday Festival

Taking place exclusively on November 27th from noon to 6 pm in Yaletown, the CandyTown Yaletown Holiday Festival is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. This family-friendly street festival is completely free and features live music, a market full of handcrafted gifts, horse-drawn carriage rides, ice carving demonstrations, and the CandyTown cocktail tour. 

The Roundhouse Community Centre will also be featuring Vancouver’s own version of the Polar Express at the event, with a historic steam engine, decorated with twinkling lights—a unique photo opportunity for kids of all ages. Enjoy an afternoon in the city and get your Christmas shopping done all at the same time. 

Bonus Event!

The Winter Pop-up Event at the Rosewood Hotel will be back this year begining in mid-November for a very short, but festive, 40-day run! Visit www.rosewoodhotels.com or their Instagram for all the details!

Get in the festive season and enjoy these amazing attractions throughout the month of November. While you’re visiting, be sure to take advantage of the awesome offers from Stay Vancouver Hotels where you can stay and receive gift certificates for Amazon, Starbucks, or iTunes, or take in the city with two half-day bike rentals from CycleCity.  

Posted on by Jennifer Osmann