Who’s ready for another magical holiday takeover, this time in Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood? Gastown’s cobblestone streets have officially transformed with twinkling lights, nostalgic displays, and carriage rides that rival the North Pole’s. Throughout December, there’s something to look forward to.
“Gastown truly comes alive with magic during the holidays, and we’re thrilled to build on that spirit by reimagining everyone’s favourite traditions,” says Elise Yurkowski, executive director of the Gastown Business Improvement Society. “December is one of the most beautiful times to experience the neighbourhood, and we’re excited to welcome visitors to stroll, shop, and soak in the festive atmosphere.”
Visitors will encounter roaming carolers and elves and have two days to take advantage of free horse-drawn carriage rides—a beloved holiday tradition that began in Gastown in the 1980s.
On Sunday, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21, 2025, you can experience a taste of Christmas nostalgia as you ride through Gastown. On both days, horse-drawn rides will be available from noon to 4 p.m.
On Thursday, Dec. 11, there will be a Mariachi Los Dorados parade through Canada’s first Mexico Barrio, accompanied by margarita specials from 6 to 8 p.m.
Gastown is even getting its own spin on “Elf on the Shelf” called “Elf off the Shelf: City Edition.” Four Gastown elves will pop up at locations across the neighbourhood to cause festive chaos from Dec. 10 to 14, and you can track them down on a scavenger hunt for a chance to win over $500 in prizes.
The Gastown Tree Walk features decorated holiday trees at a whole slew of local businesses, making the festivities all the brighter.
Here are some of the magical holiday events you can check out in Gastown this month:
- Elf off the Shelf–Neighbourhood-Wide Contest: Dec. 12-14
- Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides Dec. 14 and 21, 2025, noon to 5 p.m.
- Carolers & Holiday Entertainment: First three Sundays of December
- Marching Mariachi Band: Dec. 11, 2025, 6 to 8 p.m.
Happy holidays, Vancouver.
When: Dec. 2, 2025 to Jan. 5, 2026
Time: Rides at 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 p.m.
Where: 4886 Salmon River Rd., Armstrong
Cost: $73.50 per adult, $57.75 per youth
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