Get ready, Vancouver, because this week marks the official return of multiple beloved holiday events. From VanDusen’s Festival of Lights to Glow Langley, to Disney on Ice, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (November 20-24).
Festival of Lights
Speaking of festivals of lights, VanDusen Botanical Garden will transform into the ultimate holiday-themed destination this month, complete with over one million twinkling lights.
This year, the massive light displays will pay homage to the vibrant flora and fauna from BC’s endangered Garry Oak meadows, according to the City of Vancouver.
When: November 24th to January 7th
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: Tickets available November 1st
The Cat Empire
This Australian jazz/funk fusion band originated from Melbourne-born Jazz Cat, which eventually broke off into a three-piece band, The Cat Empire. As of 2022, the band has new additions and new music, so get ready for an exciting night of live music.
When: Monday, November 20th
Where: Commodore Ballroom
Cost: $65.50
Disney on Ice
Great news, Disney adults. Disney on Ice is skating back into Vancouver this fall – with two new shows hitting the ice: Frozen and Encanto – both of which whisk guests away on a whimsical, immersive adventure. AKA, audience participation is strongly encouraged!
When: Wednesday, November 22nd to Sunday, November 26th
Where: 100 North Renfrew Street
Cost: $25-$144+
The Japanese House
Amber Mary Bain, known professionally as The Japanese House, is an English indie pop musician known for her blend of guitar, synthesizer, and keyboard. She decided to pursue a career in music in her teenage years, and has continued to rise to fame with one hit after another.
When: Thursday, November 23rd
Where: Hollywood Theatre
Cost: $25+
IndieFest
IndieFest brings together a plethora of emerging musicians and artists from all walks of life to highlight the stories and people that may have been overshadowed by history and tradition. From modern opera and Indigenous art to drag theatre, the festival has it all, taking place across several venues from November 17th to 26th. So don’t miss out!
When: November 17th to November 26th
Where: Multiple locations
Glow Langley
Canada’s largest Christmas celebration is back in Langley this week with over one million twinkling lights. This year, Glow Langley’s theme is “Carnival Christmas,” which means the (mostly) outdoor festival is bringing some exciting new features, including new heated spaces, carnival-themed mini-games, and a craft corner.
When: November 23rd to December 30th
Where: 6690 216 Street, Langley
Cost: $15-$70
Tausk Meets Isserlis with the VSO
Maestro Tausk is united with internationally renowned British cellist Steven Isserlis to interpret Elgar’s poignant Cello Concerto during this ongoing series at the VSO Filled with classical musical traditions and romanticism, this is a great concert to cap off the work week, if you ask us.
When: Friday, November 24th and Saturday, November 25th
Where: The Orpheum
Cost: $26.43+
Squamish At Dusk
Rose Park in Squamish is set to transform into the ultimate winter wonderland starting this week as part of a new winter event called “Squamish at Dusk,” which is equal parts winter experience, festival of lights, and art exhibition.
Guests can expect to enter an immersive tunnel of lights, surrounded by glowing trees and a deep, sparkling grotto – and that’s just for starters!
When: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from November 23rd to December 10th
Where: 38550 Loggers Lane, Squamish
Cost: $10-$15 per adult, $7 to $10 per child
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge has officially transformed into an illuminated winter wonderland filled with changing multi-colour displays, a sparkling rainforest below, and a transformed Cliffwalk. So if you’re ready to be enchanted by the forest and winter season, head to North Van for a magical holiday experience like no other.
When: Friday, November 17th to Sunday, January 21st
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Cost: $49.95 to $66.95 per adult
Go on a fall hike
Hiking through some of BC’s most scenic, picturesque trails is what makes seeing the changing foliage so worthwhile, in our opinion. So if you’re itching for a good hike that’s rewarding in fall scenery, check out some of the trails above.
Where: See our picks above
And that’s a wrap on the week, Vancouver! Now get out there and experience some holiday magic for yourselves.
