3 Free Outdoor Holiday Attractions in Metro Vancouver
The merry holiday season can be a financially challenging season. This year is especially difficult as Covid restrictions add more limits to our options. Today, let’s talk about free outdoor holiday attractions in Metro Vancouver that can safely bring joy without the hefty price tag.
These suggestions are mainly found in Metro Vancouver. However, this list may give you an idea of what to search for in other provinces as well.
Lights at Lafarge, Coquitlam
What
Lights at Lafarge is Metro Vancouver’s biggest free outdoor light display. It features hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights that magically transform the 1.2 km lake loop into a wonderland.
This is a great place to get your holiday energy and adhere to your fitness goals with loved ones of all ages. Individuals, couples, families, and groups of friends enjoy this free attraction. Kids are especially mesmerized by the displays. I have also seen fur babies join the fun.
This year, the trail was modified and dispersed into two walking loops in consideration of current health guidelines. However, you may still experience some bottlenecks along the trail during peak hours or busy days.
Where
This free holiday attraction is located in Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park. It is easily accessible via public transport as it sits next to the Lafarge Lake-Douglas Station.
Ample parking is also available.
When
This holiday season, lights will be up from November 27, 2021, until January 31, 2022.
What to Consider
Avoid the crowd by arriving before 6 pm or after 8 pm. Try to avoid going on weekends if bigger crowds are not for you.
Wear walking shoes or rain boots as you will have to go through a trail.
This is a dog-friendly attraction. Please remember to be a responsible pet owner if you plan to bring your fur babies with you. I have read a complaint about people not cleaning up their pet’s mess.
Port of Vancouver: Connecting People to Make Memories
Christmas at Canada Place
What
Christmas at Canada Place is another family-friendly, outdoor experience in the Metro. It is located along the Promenade Deck’s Canadian Trail. It features the Avenue of Christmas Trees, the historic Woodward’s Windows, holiday-themed Sails of Light display, Canada’s North light display, and many more.
Christmas at Canada Place is a worthy stop during your visit to Vancouver. Aside from the Christmas displays, Canada Place offers a great view of the Vancouver Convention Centre, Burrard Landing, Vancouver Harbour, and North Vancouver.
Where
Canada Place, Vancouver
This free outdoor holiday attraction is a short walk from the Skytrain’s Waterfront Station.
When
December 3, 2021, to January 2, 2022, from 8 am to 10 pm daily including holidays.
What to Consider
Plan a visit after sunset to see the light displays in their full glory.
Burnaby Village Museum
What
Burnaby Village Museum is an open-air museum showcasing centuries of history packed into 38 exhibits. The village is a faithful re-creation of a 1920s tram-stop community. It features businesses such as Wagner’s Blacksmith Shop, Treble Clef Phonographs, and Vancouver Heights Sheet Metal Works. It also gives a glimpse of traditional homes.
The museum offers its guests an opportunity to learn about First Nations. During your visit, you may also see their crafts such as the leather vest in the photo above.
One of the highlights of every Burnaby Village Museum visit is the interurban tram car 1223 that once carried people across the Lower Mainland. At present, guests are not allowed aboard the train.
The restored 1912 C.W. Parker Carousel is the museum’s crown jewel. Kids gladly line up for this unforgettable experience. During my visit, the expected waiting time was an hour, but eager guests did not seem to mind.
During the holiday season, the museum and Concord Pacific present Heritage Christmas. At this time, the village is decorated with festive lights and special displays. They also have seasonal entertainment and activities.
Burnaby Village Museum offers one of the best free outdoor holiday attractions in Metro Vancouver. So, don’t miss it.
Where
6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby BC V5G 3T6
This free outdoor holiday attraction is accessible via public transit. Parking is available but challenging during peak hours.
When
November 27, 2021, to January 3, 2022, except on December 24 and 25.
What to Consider
Carousel rides are at a reduced capacity.
Access to buildings is limited due to Covid so, expect line-ups.
Guests 5 years and up are required to wear masks in all indoor spaces.
I hope this list of free outdoor holiday attractions in Metro Vancouver gives you more ideas on how to catch holiday cheer. Click here to find more suggestions.
You can still catch these events. So, bundle up and have fun!
