Vancouver Christmas Markets

Held in Jack Poole Plaza from the end of November until December 24th, this is the best-known of Vancouver's Christmas markets and one that whisks you back to old-world Europe. It features over 80 stalls selling decorations handmade in Germany, gifts with a difference, and a tempting range of artisan products. Try out food treats such as Gulasch while your children enjoy Santa's Grotto and the Carousel. There is even a walk-in Christmas tree.

Held in the Harbour Convention Centre on Pacific Boulevard, Glow Gardens runs until January 5th so if you don't get the gift you want for Christmas you can still treat yourself. Not only are there hundreds of stalls showcasing the best of local artisans and businesses, this warm and cozy setting also offers plenty of fun for the children including Santa's grotto as well as live music, and plenty of seasonal food and drink.

Also running until January 5th is the Aurora Winter Festival in Hastings Park. At the heart of this winter festival is the village market with its stalls selling gifts, decorations, and street food while fun can be had on the fairground and skating enjoyed on the frozen river.