The holidays in Metro Vancouver are all about family. Whether you love outdoor adventures, dazzling light displays, or cozy outings with hot cocoa in hand, there are plenty of activities that kids and parents will both enjoy. Here are the best family holiday activities in Metro Vancouver for 2025.
Glow Langley: Step Inside the Magic Toy Shop
Glow Langley is one of the most family-friendly holiday events in the region, built around a story that kids can step right into. This year’s theme, The Magic Toy Shop, transforms more than one million lights into six playful lands. Families can ride the Glowcomotive train, race plush ponies in the derby, or putt their way through poinsettias.
The Crystal Palace rises again this season, now more dazzling with its snowflake chandelier glittering overhead. Around every corner of the Toy Shop there are glowing lands to wander, music drifting through the air, and lights that seem to hum with life. Guests can follow the playful voices of Fox and Bunny in the Audio Adventure or simply pause to take in the wonder of it all. Between the live performances, the smell of festive treats from food trucks, and the bustle of the Merry Makers Market, Glow becomes more than an event. It feels like stepping into a holiday world where everything sparkles a little brighter.
Visit the Vancouver Christmas Market
For a European holiday feel, families can head downtown to the Vancouver Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza. Kids will love the walk through Christmas tree and Lovers Lane tunnel of lights, while parents can shop artisan stalls and enjoy seasonal treats like chimney cakes and mulled cider. It is a perfect balance of festive fun and holiday shopping.
Skate at Robson Square Ice Rink
Outdoor skating is a classic family tradition, and the Robson Square Ice Rink offers it right in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Admission is free if you bring your own skates, and rentals are available for a small fee. Surrounded by city lights and holiday music, it is an outing that works for all ages.
Wander VanDusen Festival of Lights
Families looking for a calm, nature inspired evening will love the VanDusen Festival of Lights. Millions of bulbs transform the botanical gardens into glowing paths, tunnels, and themed gardens. It is stroller friendly, perfect for little ones, and has plenty of hot chocolate stands to keep everyone warm.
Bright Nights at Cloverdale Fairgrounds
Bright Nights has a new home at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey. This beloved holiday tradition features dazzling light displays, festive food, live entertainment, and plenty of photo-worthy moments for families and friends. Proceeds continue to support the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, keeping the spirit of giving at the heart of this magical celebration.
Explore Lights at Lafarge in Coquitlam
Families looking for a free and festive option should not miss the Lights at Lafarge. The walking loop around Lafarge Lake is filled with themed light displays and plenty of photo spots. It is stroller and dog friendly, and easy to do at your own pace.
Catch a Holiday Show or Panto
Metro Vancouver is home to plenty of family friendly theatre at Christmas time. From The Nutcracker ballet to holiday pantomimes filled with music and comedy, these shows are a fun way to introduce kids to live performances in a festive setting.
Why Families Love Glow
Every activity on this list has something to offer, but Glow Langley is the only one that combines lights, rides, story, market shopping, food, and live entertainment all in one ticket. With a new theme every year and stable pricing for four seasons running, it is designed as a holiday tradition for families to return to again and again.
✨ Book your tickets to Glow Langley today and step inside The Magic Toy Shop this Christmas. ✨
