What (Information from 2023): Back for its 17th sparkling year, the in-person kick-off party for the city's official Christmas tree––a shimmering, 76-feet-tall cone of 100,000 lights and fake foliage that's just crying out for selfies––is a family-friendly live event that's well-worth checking out. Sprinkled with festive cheer and toe-tapping live music (as well as gratis hot chocolate) Santa will also be on-hand to offer his official seal of approval. And if you miss the big launch, don't forget to beeline this way sometime over the holidays to enjoy the twinkling spectacle.

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When: TBC

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Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl'e7énk Square (Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza), downtown Vancouver

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Cost: Free!