2025
Discover holiday magic in Vancouver this winter
This 2025 story is supplied by StayVancouverHotels
From its spectacular setting framed by snow-capped peaks to its many family-friendly festive attractions, Vancouver has become one of the world's top destinations for holiday season travellers. Discover why the city is a hot spot for unforgettable wintertime magic.
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Vancouver’s natural beauty is no secret. From the picturesque mountain peaks to the vast Pacific Ocean, the setting is straight up gorgeous. But what many travellers have also discovered is that the city’s magical atmosphere is even more potent during the winter holidays––due to the sheer number of accessible events and fun festive energy.
Destination Downtown Vancouver offers festive family fun, including free music performances at Robson Square Ice Rink, Ferris wheel rides at the Vancouver Art Gallery, Instagram-worthy light installations and much more. Visitors can even take part in a illuminated animal contest and enter to win great prizes.
Speaking of prizes, Stay Vancouver Hotels is once again offering the chance to win stays at downtown Vancouver hotels as well as passes to amazing local events and attractions. From November 25 to December 14, visit VeryMerryVancouver.com and you can enter a new draw every day.
And with every daily entry, you are also automatically entered into a grand prize draw for a luxury four-night getaway in Vancouver––featuring a two-night stay at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver hotel, a two-night stay at the DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection hotel, a JW Wellness Journey Treatment at the Spa by JW, a Harbour Air Scenic flightseeing tour, afternoon tea at Notch8 at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and $1,000 in Prepaid Mastercard® cards!
Another highly anticipated holiday season attraction in Vancouver this year is set in the heart of sprawling Stanley Park. Harry Potter™: A Forbidden Forest Experience takes visitors on an enchanted journey into the depths of a dark forest to discover magical creatures and interactive spells, while also experiencing some of the most iconic scenes from the wizarding world of the beloved Harry Potter™ movies.
You know what else is magical? German crafts. The downtown Vancouver Christmas Market has become an annual festive season tradition for locals and visitors alike, with artisanal vendors and authentic European food and drinks that fill you with holiday spirit before you can say “feuerzangenbowle” (a classic German holiday beverage).
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is also perfect for those who love colourful lights. Cross a glowing bridge high above the illuminated Capilano River and forest floor. Or spend the evening with a delightful stroll in a winter wonderland at VanDusen Festival of Lights, with over one million coloured lights sparkling in the fresh winter air.
Whatever you love to do, Vancouver has you covered. From flavourful Vancouver Foodie Tours to iconic arts and culture at the Museum of Anthropology and so much more, there’s something magical to see, taste and experience around every corner here. You might want to make it an annual tradition. Fortunately, Very Merry Vancouver welcomes guests and visitors with a warmth they’ll never forget.
Visit VeryMerryVancouver.com daily between November 25 and December 14, and enter for your chance to win hotel stays and winter experiences, or book a hotel stay and score a prepaid Mastercard with up to C$250. The more daily draws you enter, the better your chances of winning the grand prize draw on December 15 for a luxury getaway.
