December in Vancouver brings a mix of light displays, festive markets, indoor cultural events, and cosy seasonal experiences, so the whole month feels twinkly, calm, and full of festive energy. Most attractions run throughout December, which makes it easy to build a holiday itinerary that works whether you’re exploring during the day or heading out at night.

Whether you’re on a tight budget or enjoying a solo festive season, there are so many things to do that make winter feel a little more magical. This round-up includes my personal top picks along with classic events that locals return to every year. With a blend of free and ticketed experiences, you can explore almost all of them entirely at your own pace, which makes them perfect for a December day or night out on your own.

VanDusen Festival of Lights

This is always at the top of my December activity list. For the Festival of Lights, VanDusen transforms into a magical storybook garden filled with twinkling displays, glowing tunnels, music, and cozy treats. It’s beautiful for slow wandering and perfect for solo photography.

Dates and Times: November 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026. Opening hours are 4pm to 10pm. Last entry at 8:30pm to 9pm.
Address: 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver
Public Transport: Take the Canada Line to Oakridge–41st Station, then walk 10 minutes to the garden.
Cost: Ticketed $29 plus taxes and service fees
Get Tickets: Showpass – VanDusen Festival of Lights
Why it’s great solo: Peaceful, spacious, and perfect for slow wandering, photography, and soaking in the lights without feeling rushed.

Shipyards Christmas Market

Located in North Vancouver, this waterfront market is full of local makers, live music, festive food, and a lively but welcoming atmosphere. It’s bigger, and less touristy than the main Vancouver Christmas Market and it’s also completely free. It’s a great market for browsing alone, and there’s lots of delicious food options so bring your appetite.

Dates and Time: November 28 to December 24. Opening hours are 11am to 9pm on Sun to Thurs, 11am to 10pm on Fri to Sat, Dec 22 to 23 11am to 10pm, Dec 24 11am to 8pm.
Address: Shipyards District, North Vancouver
Public Transport: Take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay, then it’s a 3-minute walk.
Cost: Free entry
Why it’s great solo: It has a relaxed, community feel that’s less intense than the downtown market.

Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience

An immersive walk-through experience in Stanley Park that brings the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to life. This one is ideal for solo adventurers who want a bit of nostalgia, atmospheric lighting, and great photo opportunities. It’s surprisingly calming and cozy even on rainy nights.

Dates: On until January 11, 2026. Opening times 4:45pm with last entry typically at 9.30pm or 9.45pm.
Address: Stanley Park Pavilion area, 690 Pipeline Road, Vancouver, British Columbia V6G 3E2.
Public Transport: Take any bus into Stanley Park or walk in from Coal Harbour via the seawall.
Cost: Ticketed (typically $40 to $60 depending on day and time)
Get Tickets: Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience website
Why it’s great solo: Atmospheric, nostalgic, and quiet enough to enjoy at your own pace.

If you’re planning to go, I’ve written a full guide to the Forbidden Forest Experience with tips, photos, and everything you need to know before booking.

Gingerbread Lane At The Hyatt Regency

A cute, free indoor activity where local creators build giant gingerbread displays. It’s a quick stop, but the craftsmanship always makes it worth popping in during a downtown wander.

Dates: November 27 to December 28, 2025
Address: 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver
Public Transport: Burrard SkyTrain Station is a 2 minute walk away from the hotel.
Cost: Free
Why it’s great solo: It’s indoors, quick, and very cute — perfect between errands or on a chilly day.

Make It Christmas Market at the PNE

A huge indie craft fair with hundreds of makers. If you enjoy supporting local creators or want unique gifts, this is one of the best places to go. Go near opening or closing times for a calmer solo experience.

Dates: December 4 to 7 & December 11 to 14 (2025 dates)
Address: PNE Forum, 2901 East Hastings Street
Public Transport: Take a bus along Hastings Street directly to the PNE grounds.
Cost: Ticketed ($12 to $15)
Get Tickets: Make It Vancouver Pass
Why it’s great solo: Huge variety of vendors and easy to browse without pressure.

Merry & Bright at Martini Town

A full fake Christmas town designed for festive photos, wandering, and enjoying the holiday atmosphere. It’s perfect for capturing your own Christmas content or just playing tourist for the day.

Dates: Select dates in December
Address: Martini Film Studios, Langley
Public Transport: Take the Expo Line to Surrey Central or King George, then take a bus to Langley Centre. From there, take a short Uber or Lyft to the studios.
Cost: Ticketed (usually around $25 to $35)
Get Tickets: Merry & Bright at Martini Town (Tickets only online)
Why it’s great solo: A whimsical full Christmas town built for festive photos and wandering.

Vancouver Christmas Market

A classic and a favourite. The market at Jack Poole Plaza is full of food, mulled wine, photo spots, and German-inspired treats. Go earlier in the evening to avoid heavy crowds if you prefer a quieter solo experience.

Dates: Mid November to December 24
Address: Jack Poole Plaza, Vancouver
Public Transport: Take the SkyTrain to Burrard or Waterfront, then walk 5 minutes to the plaza.
Cost: Ticketed (typically around $17 to $25. Season Passes are $35.99 each)
Get Tickets: Vancouver Christmas Market Tickets & Season Passes
Why it’s great solo: Great for an early evening wander, food tasting, and enjoying the atmosphere before the crowds peak. It has lots of food and photo spots.

North Pole Limited At The West Coast Railway Heritage Park (Squamish)

A nostalgic ride with cocoa, Christmas storytelling, and cozy traditions. It’s very family-oriented, but solo travelers who love trains, vintage vibes, and holiday charm will have a lovely time.

Dates: November 29 & 30; December 6 & 7, 13 & 14, 20 & 21.
Address: West Coast Railway Heritage Park, Squamish
Public Transport: Take the Skylynx coach from downtown Vancouver to the Squamish Adventure Centre, then walk or take a short taxi to the Heritage Park.
Cost: Ticketed (typically $35 to $55)
Get Tickets: Book North Pole Express Ticket
Why it’s great solo: It’s cozy, nostalgic, and perfect for train lovers.

Lights At Lafarge (Coquitlam)

A beautiful walk around Lafarge Lake with colourful light displays and plenty of photo spots. It’s free, local, and one of the easiest outdoor festive walks to do solo.

Dates: Nov 28, 2025 to Feb 16, 2026from 4 PM to 11 PM
Address: Lafarge Lake, Town Centre Park, Coquitlam
Public Transport: SkyTrain Evergreen Line directly to Lafarge Lake–Douglas Station
Cost: Free
Why it’s great solo: Wide walking paths, pretty displays, and plenty of benches.

Festival of Trees at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

If you want something cosy and Christmassy without stepping foot outdoors, the Festival of Trees at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is a gorgeous option. Every year local businesses and charities decorate dozens of Christmas trees throughout the hotel, turning its hallways into a sparkling forest to raise money for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. It’s warm, free, and perfect for a quick festive break between shopping or sightseeing.

Dates & Times: Nov 23, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026
Address: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 W Georgia St, Vancouver.
Public Transport: Take the SkyTrain to Vancouver City Centre or Burrard Station; both are a 3–5 minute walk.
Cost: Free! Donations encouraged for charity.
Solo Travel Tip: This is one of my favourite solo-friendly stops because it’s peaceful, indoors, and easy to wander at your own pace. You can take photos, grab a hot drink nearby, and enjoy the festive atmosphere without feeling rushed or surrounded by crowds.

Heritage Christmas At Burnaby Village Museum

Running November 22 to January 2, this is one of the most atmospheric free events in the region. You can wander through old-fashioned buildings, enjoy the lights, grab a hot drink, and even catch performances.

Dates: November 22 to January 2
Address: 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Public Transport: Take the SkyTrain to Metrotown, then take a bus to Deer Lake / Burnaby Village Museum.
Cost: Free
Why it’s great solo: A charming, vintage-style village filled with lights and festive displays

CPKC Holiday Train (Port Moody/Port Coquitlam)

The holiday train rolls through on December 20 with live music from major Canadian performers. For 2025, it’s the Barenaked Ladies. It’s festive, free, and a genuinely heartwarming community event.

Date: December 20
Address: Moody Centre / PoCo Station
Public Transport: Take the SkyTrain Evergreen Line to Moody Centre, then walk to the event. PoCo is accessible by connecting buses.
Cost: Free
Why it’s great solo: Community atmosphere, live music, and a warm, feel-good night out.

Festive Concerts: A Unique Solo Night Out

If you want to swap out lights and markets for something more cultural (and a little glam), VSO offers several film-concert and holiday shows this season. These make lovely standalone evenings — ideal for a solo traveler who enjoys cozy indoor events, festive vibes, or nostalgic films. I went to see West Side Story at the VSO in the past and it was really good. These are my top picks for December and January:

A Traditional Christmas

Some of everyone’s favourite carols and Christmas songs performed live by the VSO. It’s A festive treat for all!

• Dates and Times: Dec 21 2025 at 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM
• Tickets: Traditional Christmas with the VSO
• Cost: Tickets start at $52 to $75

Home Alone In Concert

• Dates and Times: Dec 17 & 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM 
• Tickets: VSO: Home Alone
• Cost:

Elf In Concert

• Dates and Times: Dec 19 & 20, 2025 at 7:00 PM 
• Tickets: VSO: Elf
• Cost: $49.50 to $145

Harry Potter And The Chamber of Secrets In Concert

• Dates and Times: Jan 8, 9, 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM 
• Tickets: VSO: Harry Potter and the Chamber Of Secrets
• Cost: $31.50 to $145

James Bond: Spectre In Concert

• Dates and Times: Jan 14, Jan 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM 
• Tickets: VSO: Spectre in Concert
• Cost: $31.50 to $145

Address: Orpheum Theatre, 601 Smithe St, Downtown Vancouver — close to SkyTrain + bus routes

Solo Travel Tips: Take this as your permission to get dressed up if you want to; Arrive ~30–60 mins early to enjoy venue atmosphere; Arrive solo confidently — many mix of audience styles.

VSO Concerts Are Perfect For Solo Travellers

• There is no strict dress code — you’ll see everything from casual to dressy, so you can go with what feels comfortable for you.
• Solo trips to the theatre don’t stick out — the ambiance and shared cinematic-music experience make it easy to blend in, enjoy, and even strike up light conversations during intermission.
• Convenient downtown location (Orpheum). It’s really close to transit, walkable, and ideal for a fancier evening.
• These concerts will add a classy, calm, and cozy alternative to the bustle of markets and light displays in your festive plans. It’s perfect for days when you want indoor warmth, comfort, and a little culture.

Grouse Mountain Peak of Christmas

If you love mountain vibes and a snowy setting, this can be a beautiful festive outing. As a solo traveler, it’s best when you’re up for a bit of an adventure because the ticket price and weather conditions can make it hit or miss. The lights, reindeer, and winter scenery are lovely, but it’s not essential if you’re tight on time or budget.

Dates: November 21 to December 24 (2025)
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Public Transport: Take the free seasonal shuttle from Canada Place, or bus 236 from Lonsdale Quay.
Cost: Ticketed (typically $70 to $80)
Get Tickets: Grouse Mountain Admission Ticket
Why it’s great solo: Magical on a clear day with snow, lights, and reindeer, though best when you’re not rushing. If you love snowy mountain vibes, reindeer, and light walks, it’s a great festive day out. If you’re watching your budget or the weather is unpredictable, it can feel pricey for a short visit.

The Nutcracker At Queen Elizabeth Theatre

If you enjoy a classic Christmas performance, The Nutcracker runs December 18 to 21. It’s elegant, calming, and easy to enjoy alone without feeling out of place. I’ve done this before and loved it.

Dates: December 12 to 21
Address: 630 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Public Transport: Take the SkyTrain to Stadium–Chinatown, then walk 5 minutes.
Cost: Ticketed (pricing varies depending on seat)
Get Tickets: The Nutcrucker Ballet Ticket
Why it’s great solo: Timeless, cosy, and perfect for a festive night indoors.

Free Ferris Wheel At Robson Square

A fun, quick stop on a holiday night out. The Ferris wheel is completely free, and the views over downtown feel wonderfully festive. Pair it with ice skating for a full evening plan.

Dates: December
Address: Robson Street at Hornby Street, Vancouver
Public Transport: A 5–7 minute walk from Vancouver City Centre Station
Cost: Free
Why it’s great solo: It’s quick, cheerful, and makes a nice break between shopping or errands.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Canyon Lights

An iconic Vancouver experience where the bridge and surrounding forest are lit up with glowing displays. It’s stunning, especially on quieter weeknights, and one of the most magical ways to spend a December evening.

Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Address: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Public Transport: Take the free Capilano shuttle from Canada Place, or take bus 246 or 232 from downtown.
Cost: Ticketed (usually around $65 to $70)
Get Tickets: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Tickets
Why it’s great solo: A magical forest walkway filled with lights and one of Vancouver’s most iconic winter activities.

The Elf Run (A Local Favourite)

The Elf Run is a wonderfully chaotic, joy-filled but totally unhinged Vancouver tradition that locals absolutely adore. It’s technically a fun run… but really it’s just hundreds of adults and kids embracing their inner elf for a silly, wholesome, only-in-December good time. Whether you jog, walk, or shuffle in layers of tinsel, it’s an easy way to soak up the city’s festive spirit.

Dates & Times: December 13, 2025 from 1pm to 4pm
Address: Lumbermans Arch, Stanley Park (2025) is the start and finish
Public Transport: Take any bus into Stanley Park or walk in from Coal Harbour via the seawall.
Cost: This is a paid event with varying race categories.
Get Tickets: Take part in the Big Elf Run
Solo Travel Tip: The Elf Run is so beginner-friendly and social that you’ll never feel out of place on your own. Lots of people come solo, and the silly costumes make for easy small talk. The crowd is warm, relaxed, and very “West Coast festive”.

Christmas At Canada Place

A lovely waterfront stroll with festive lights, themed displays, and delicious hot chocolate. It’s one of the easiest free holiday activities in the city and an easy add-on before or after the Christmas Market.

Dates: Usually December. Cancelled in 2025
Address: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
Public Transport: A short walk from Waterfront Station
Cost: Free
Why it’s great solo: It’s safe, central, easy to walk around at your own pace, and has some of the best hot chocolate nearby.

Robson Square Ice Rink

Every year Robson

Dates: November 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026
Address: 800 Robson Square, Vancouver
Public Transport: A short walk from Vancouver City Centre Skytrain station
Cost: $5 for skate rental
Why it’s great solo: It’s a safe, festive and very Canadian activity that’s popular with locals of all ages.

Solo Travel Tips For Enjoying December Festivities On Your Own

Doing festive activities solo can feel intimidating at first, especially when you’re surrounded by families, couples, and big groups. But once you ease into it, you start to notice how much freedom you actually have to enjoy these events at your own pace. Here are a few practical tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and fully in the moment.

Choose Your Ideal Time Of Day

Crowds make a big difference. If you want a gentler, more peaceful visit, go midweek or during the first hour of opening. If you prefer a bit more atmosphere, go at golden hour when the lights are just starting to glow.

Plan One Small Ritual For The Outing

It might be grabbing a hot chocolate on the way, choosing one special treat, or taking a few quiet minutes somewhere pretty. Little rituals help make the outing feel intentional instead of last-minute or rushed.

Give Yourself Permission To Take Breaks

Solo travel is meant to feel enjoyable, not overstimulating. Step aside for a moment, sit with a drink, or wander at a slower pace if you need to. Nobody is tracking your time or deciding the next stop for you.

Focus On Experiences, Not Comparison

Festive events naturally attract groups and families, and you’ll notice a lot of them. Try reframing it as joyful background energy rather than something you’re missing out on. You’re not alone because nobody invited you — you’re alone because you allowed yourself the freedom to have your own kind of December.

Pick Spaces And Experiences That Match Your Mood

Markets and light displays can be vibrant. Gardens and waterfront areas tend to be calmer. If you’re having a low-energy day, choose activities with fewer crowds or wider walking paths so you can keep to yourself easily.

Use Your Surroundings As A Creativity Boost

This season is filled with colour, lights, texture, and atmosphere. Bring your camera, journal, or phone notes. Take photos, write thoughts as they come, or simply capture moments that make you smile. Creativity turns any solo outing into something meaningful.

Leave When You’re Ready To Go, Not When The Event Is “Done”

One of the biggest perks of solo festive activities is that you never have to stay longer than you want. If you’re cold, tired, or just satisfied, you can simply wander home and feel proud that you went at all.

If you’re spending the season away from home or feeling a bit low this year, you might also find my Christmas overseas guide and my surviving Christmas alone guide really helpful for creating a holiday that feels comforting, intentional, and true to you.

December Is A Fun Time To Be Solo In Vancouver

Vancouver in December is one of the easiest and most uplifting times to get out and explore on your own. Whether you’re wandering through light displays, browsing holiday markets, or treating yourself to a cosy festive evening, there are endless ways to make the season feel joyful without needing a travel buddy.

If you want to dive deeper into specific activities, I’ve created full guides for some of the events mentioned here, including the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience. You’ll also find more ideas in my Vancouver Christmas round-ups, solo holiday guides, and seasonal self-care posts. They all work together to help you build a December that feels comforting, fun, and true to you.

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