One of my favourite things to do (which has come more of a tradition now) is take my parents to the Vancouver Christmas Market. My parents – more specifically my dad is obsessed with Christmas. Every year, he turns his place into a Christmas spectacle that is always a hit with our neighbours and our family and friends. We joke about it being Christmas overload, but honestly, I really do enjoy the time, effort and details that go into his decorations.
In any case, there are two traditions we normally uphold – one, seeing the Nutcracker (we’ve been seeing it since I can remember the play) and two, checking out the sights around Vancouver. This year is no different – we went to check out the Vancouver Christmas Market pretty early on in December.
It’s got a new space at the Jack Poole Plaza – right between the new Convention Centre and the Cactus Club near the waterfront. It is more spaced out, with more room to walk about and there are a couple new stalls.
All the favourites are still there of course – including the workshop with all the wooden and glass ornaments, glüwein (mulled wine), haxen haus, Späetzle and much more. Some new additions: Chimney cones, churros, Okanagan Spirits and some new gift huts. And yes, the carousel is still there too, which is a lot of fun for the little kids (and kids who think they’re still little, ahem, me).
The Vancouver Christmas Market is open now until December 31st from 11am to 9pm (though it’s closed early on Christmas Eve at 6pm and closed on Christmas Day). If you’re looking for some fun with the family, your special someone or even by yourself – it’s a great place to visit! It’s one of the more affordable things to do in the city with admission being $4 for kids 7-12 (free for anyone under) and $8 for adults which includes a seasons pass so that you can come again any time during the month!
Check out my experience walking the market this year in my video below!
