Christmas has officially arrived, and Vancouver has reached its peak festiveness. While many closures are to be expected, there’s still plenty to do on Dec. 25, 2025. From ice skating to twinkling lights, here are some of the best things to do on Christmas Day in and around Vancouver.
Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display is in Coquitlam, and it features a 1.6 km lit pathway lined with adorable holiday displays. Running until Feb. 16, 2026, you’ve got plenty of time to check it out, but Christmas Day feels like the ideal time to take it all in.
The City of Coquitlam recommends visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours, between 6 p.m. and after 8 p.m., for the best viewing experience.
Time: 4 to 11 p.m.
Where: 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
Cost: Free
Yes, the aquarium is open on Christmas Day, and we can’t think of a better activity to enjoy with the family than the return of Scuba Claus and the aquarium’s holiday festivities. Over one million lights currently adorn the aquarium, bringing the festive spirit to all the exhibits and marine life.
Time: Tickets available between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $39.95 to $55.20 per person (ages 13 to 64)
Canada’s longest-running Gingerbread Lane is not to be missed. Located at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver, the 33rd annual event supports Make-A-Wish Canada, featuring charming gingerbread displays made by pros and community members alike.
Time: Open 24/7
Where: 655 Burrard St.
Cost: Free
The ice rink at Robson Square is a staple for a reason. For just $5 per skate rental, you really can’t go wrong, especially given its central location! Stop by on a spontaneous trip downtown, or plan a special skate session before or after your next dinner date.
Time: Noon to 5 p.m.
Where: 800 Robson St.
Cost: $5 for skate rentals
Lights of Hope is one of St. Paul’s Foundation’s largest community fundraising campaigns, and you can check out this year’s shining installation until Jan. 2, 2026. For over 27 years, more than $57.4 million has been donated to support Lights of Hope, which helps hundreds of thousands of patients and their families from across the province.
Time: Daily
Where: 1081 Burrard St.
Cost: Free
Over 150 Christmas trees are glowing at this year’s Dundarave Festival of Lights in West Vancouver, creating its biggest and brightest “Forest of Miracles” yet.
Time: Nightly
Where: From Grosvenor Ambleside Galleria to Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver
Cost: Free
If you’re willing to make the trek out of the city to Harrison Hot Springs, its annual Lights by the Lake Holiday Festival is well worth the journey. The festivities illuminate the two-kilometre promenade along Harrison Lake with vibrant lights and Sasquatch-themed decor, and you have until Jan. 11, 2026, to check it out.
Time: 5 p.m.
Where: Harrison Lake, Harrison Hot Springs
Cost: Free
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