Enjoy the magic of the holidays in Chilliwack with our comprehensive guide. From hometown residents to holiday guests, our guide reveals the best of Chilliwack's festive season.
Popular events abound during this time, with the enchanting VanDusen Festival of Lights captivating visitors with its stunning light displays across the garden. Unique handmade items and local crafts await at the Chilliwack Christmas Craft Market, which features a variety of vendors showcasing their talents. And the Bright Nights Christmas Train in Stanley Park is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a delightful ride through a winter wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Chilliwack
- VanDusen Festival of Lights (Vancouver)
- Bright Nights Christmas Train in Stanley Park (Vancouver)
- Chilliwack Christmas Craft Market
- ILLUMINATE Maple Ridge (Maple Ridge)
- Christmas Gifts Expo
- Tsawwassen Springs Festival of Lights (Tsawwassen)
- Bright Walk in White Rock (White Rock)
- Santa In The Country - Glenda's Christmas Cottage
- The Magic of Christmas - Butchart Gardens (Victoria)
- Steveston's Winter in the Village (Steveston)
See these and even more events listed below!
Chilliwack Holiday Light Displays
VanDusen Festival of Lights
What to Expect:
Interactive light displays and sensory-friendly evening.
Description:
VanDusen Festival of Lights features over 1 million twinkling lights spread across 15 acres, including a new interactive mycelium installation and themed light areas inspired by BC's biodiversity.
Where: Vancouver | More Info: VanDusen Festival of Lights
Bright Nights Christmas Train in Stanley Park
What to Expect:
Iconic train ride through a forest of sparkling lights.
Description:
Bright Nights in Stanley Park features a spectacular display of thousands of sparkling lights, a vintage fire truck, and live entertainment. The event includes a ride on the iconic 1961 locomotive through the forest, a stroll through the plaza with whimsical displays, and opportunities to snap photos with Santa and his firefighter friends.
Where: Vancouver | More Info: Bright Nights Christmas Train in Stanley Park
Tsawwassen Springs Festival of Lights
What to Expect:
Community-sponsored Christmas tree display to support local healthcare.
Description:
Tsawwassen Springs Festival of Lights features Christmas trees sponsored and decorated by families, community groups, and businesses, raising funds for Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation.
Where: Tsawwassen | More Info: Tsawwassen Springs Festival of Lights
Bright Walk in White Rock
What to Expect:
Extensive light installations along the waterfront.
Description:
Bright Walk in White Rock is a winter light display featuring over 50,000 lights, a 20-foot Christmas tree, and an LED light tunnel at Memorial Park.
Where: White Rock | More Info: Bright Walk in White Rock
The Magic of Christmas - Butchart Gardens
What to Expect:
Spectacular light displays and traditional carollers.
Description:
Stroll through the Twelve Days of Christmas displays at Butchart Gardens, featuring thousands of twinkling lights, festive greenery, and traditional carollers. Enjoy festive dining at the Dining Room Restaurant or Blue Poppy Restaurant, and warm up with hot chocolate and gingerbread at the Coffee Shop.
Where: Victoria | More Info: The Magic of Christmas - Butchart Gardens
Celebrate Christmas at Canada Place
What to Expect:
Nostalgic holiday light displays and sculptures.
Description:
Celebrate Christmas at Canada Place with nostalgic traditions like Woodward's Windows, the North Point light display featuring Chrismoose, and the iconic Sails of Light, all set amidst a festive Avenue of Trees.
Where: Vancouver | More Info: Celebrate Christmas at Canada Place
Candlelight Parade - Mission
What to Expect:
Largest nighttime parade in BC with a variety of floats and community displays.
Description:
The Mission Candlelight Parade is an annual family-oriented event celebrating Christmas and the community of Mission. It features bands, floats, and community groups showcasing their services and activities, drawing over 10,000 spectators.
Where: Mission | More Info: Candlelight Parade - Mission
Heritage Christmas - Burnaby Village Museum
What to Expect:
Seasonal entertainment and activities in a historic setting.
Description:
Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum features festive lights, traditional decorations, and seasonal entertainment. Visitors can enjoy meals and treats at Mai's Cafe and food trucks. The event includes a scavenger hunt and special activities like storytelling.
Where: Burnaby | More Info: Heritage Christmas - Burnaby Village Museum
Chilliwack Holiday Markets and Shopping
Chilliwack Christmas Craft Market
What to Expect:
Showcasing local artisans and their unique handmade products.
Description:
The Chilliwack Christmas Craft Market is a premier holiday event showcasing over 240 local artisans and artisans from BC, featuring a diverse range of handmade products including pottery, woodwork, jewelry, body care products, and fine foods.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Chilliwack Christmas Craft Market
Christmas Gifts Expo
What to Expect:
Large-scale holiday market with diverse local vendors.
Description:
The Christmas Gifts Expo at Chilliwack Heritage Park features over 290 booths with home-based businesses, small businesses, artisans, and local vendors offering exclusive deals and unique products.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Christmas Gifts Expo
Santa In The Country - Glenda's Christmas Cottage
What to Expect:
Unique and exclusive Christmas decorations and collectibles.
Description:
Glenda's Christmas Cottage offers a vast array of unique and exclusive Christmas decorations, collectibles, and ornaments, including Authentic Dickens Village and Byers Choice Carollers. The store is renowned for its high-quality, luxurious decor that transforms any home into a festive haven. From rustic country to decadent luxury, there is something for every style and occasion.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Santa In The Country - Glenda's Christmas Cottage
Vintage Barn Market
What to Expect:
Large-scale vintage and handmade market with 150 vendors.
Description:
The Vintage Barn Market is a biannual event held at Chilliwack Heritage Park, featuring 150 curated vendors offering vintage and handmade items. It attracts over 12,000 attendees and is a premier shopping destination in the Fraser Valley.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Vintage Barn Market
Chilliwack Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Candlelight Concerts
What to Expect:
Live classical music performance under candlelight.
Description:
Candlelight Concerts at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre feature a live, multi-sensory musical experience under the gentle glow of candlelight. The program includes Vivaldi's Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8, along with other classical pieces by Jules Massenet and Astor Piazzolla.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Candlelight Concerts
Destination Broadway
What to Expect:
Student-directed and performed fundraising variety show.
Description:
Destination Broadway is a student-directed and performed fundraising variety show featuring musical numbers, dances, and scenes. It is a joyful entertainment show that supports theatre education programs at Chilliwack School Performing Arts.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Destination Broadway
Stellar Spotlight: An Afternoon at the Academy
What to Expect:
World-class piano performance by talented students and a renowned faculty member.
Description:
Stellar Spotlight: An Afternoon at the Academy features incredibly talented students from the Chilliwack Academy of Music, introducing internationally renowned pianist Dr. Boris Konovalov. The concert includes iconic selections by Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Stellar Spotlight: An Afternoon at the Academy
Vocal Tapestry: An Evening of Hindustani Music
What to Expect:
Mesmerizing interplay of rhythm and voice in traditional Hindustani music.
Description:
Immerse yourself in the evocative sounds of Hindustani music as ensemble tihai, featuring vocalist Akhil Jobanputra, brings together soul-stirring ragas and intricate rhythms. This unique performance bridges traditional and contemporary, offering a musical journey that tells the story of cultural heritage and artistic innovation.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Vocal Tapestry: An Evening of Hindustani Music
Johnny Cash tribute band The Men In Black
What to Expect:
Johnny Cash tribute band with video and photographic backdrop.
Description:
The Men In Black is Canada's premiere Johnny Cash tribute band, performing a two-hour show featuring all his hits like "Folsom Prison Blues," "Ring of Fire," and "Orange Blossom Special." The performance is set against a backdrop of video photographs depicting pivotal moments in Johnny Cash's life and career.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Johnny Cash tribute band The Men In Black
Jane Siberry
What to Expect:
Forward-thinking artist with a diverse musical career.
Description:
Jane Siberry is an iconic and enigmatic singer-songwriter known for her sincere integrity and emotional depth. With 14 studio albums, including her well-loved signature song "Calling All Angels," she has been covered by numerous artists. Her forward-thinking approach to the music business and her exploration of passive income streams make her a unique artist.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Jane Siberry
Winter Fantasia
What to Expect:
Heartwarming holiday story with music and visual images.
Description:
Winter Fantasia is a holiday celebration featuring music, stunning visual images, and a heartwarming story by Robert Krause, titled "The Christmas Cookie Sprinkle Snitcher." The event brings together the artistic community of Chilliwack in a spirit of joy and celebration.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Winter Fantasia
Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas
What to Expect:
Tribute to female icons and girl groups of the 1950s and 60s.
Description:
Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas features Zachary Stevenson from the hit musical "The Buddy Holly Story" hosting a special Christmas concert. He will be joined by The Lovettes, a Chicago-based trio known for their show-stopping salute to female icons and girl groups of the 1950s and 60s. The event includes a tribute to Tina Turner and performances of big hits and seasonal tunes by the cast with backing provided by the Legends All-Star Band.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas
A Traditional Christmas - Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra
What to Expect:
Annual showcase of traditional and new Christmas music by the Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra.
Description:
The Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra presents A Traditional Christmas, featuring a selection of classic and new Christmas music to get you in the holiday spirit. The concert promises to be a delightful afternoon filled with festive tunes.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: A Traditional Christmas - Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra
Winter Harp
What to Expect:
Classical harps and medieval instruments in a festive Christmas setting.
Description:
Winter Harp is a Christmas concert featuring classical and Celtic harps, flutes, and rare medieval instruments. The event combines music, song, and festive stories to create a silken cloak of Christmas, celebrating the season with familiar carols and ancient songs.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Winter Harp
A Canadian Brass Christmas
What to Expect:
World-class brass performance with a holiday twist.
Description:
Canadian Brass brings their renowned brass ensemble to the stage, performing a selection of festive and classical pieces that highlight their technical skill and musicality.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: A Canadian Brass Christmas
Spectral Holiday: An Evening of Christmas Ghost Stories - Historic Stewart Farm
What to Expect:
Victorian-era ghost stories in a festively decorated farmhouse.
Description:
Join Historic Stewart Farm for an evening of Christmas ghost stories, featuring Victorian-era tales and festive games in a beautifully decorated farmhouse. Appetizers and mulled wine are included.
Where: Surrey | More Info: Spectral Holiday: An Evening of Christmas Ghost Stories - Historic Stewart Farm
The Nutcracker — Ballet Victoria - The ACT Arts Centre
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Ballet Victoria presents The Nutcracker at The ACT Arts Centre, featuring a timeless musical score, beautifully imagined choreography, and brilliantly costumed dancers in a whimsical presentation of the classic holiday ballet.
Where: Maple Ridge | More Info: The Nutcracker — Ballet Victoria - The ACT Arts Centre
Ballet Victoria's The Nutcracker - Chilliwack Cultural Centre
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Ballet Victoria's The Nutcracker is a timeless ballet performance featuring beautifully imagined choreography and stunningly costumed dancers. Amidst the festivities of Christmas Eve, young Clara receives a special gift from her mysterious uncle, a toy Nutcracker that comes to life and takes her on a journey filled with passion and grace.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Ballet Victoria's The Nutcracker - Chilliwack Cultural Centre
Christmas with The Bach Choir
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday photobooth and audience carol singalong.
Description:
Join over 500 singers from the Vancouver Bach Choir, Vancouver Bach Children's Choirs, and the Touch of Brass quintet for a heartwarming holiday concert featuring charming seasonal selections and an audience carol singalong.
Where: Vancouver | More Info: Christmas with The Bach Choir
A Celtic Christmas
What to Expect:
Traditional Celtic music and dance performances.
Description:
A Celtic Christmas is a festive celebration featuring traditional music, dance, and cultural performances that evoke the spirit of the holiday season.
Where: Vancouver | More Info: A Celtic Christmas
Chilliwack Holiday Giving Opportunities
Toys for Tots Christmas Breakfast
What to Expect:
Live entertainment and Santa visit.
Description:
Join the Toys for Tots Christmas Brunch at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre, featuring live entertainment, fantastic food, and a visit from Santa. This free family event encourages guests to bring a new, unwrapped toy or make a charitable donation to the Archway Christmas Bureau.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Toys for Tots Christmas Breakfast
Chilliwack Other Holiday Activities
Chilliwack Rotary Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebration with festive floats and live bands.
Description:
The Chilliwack Rotary Christmas Parade is a community event featuring floats, marching bands, and Santa, showcasing holiday spirit and festive decorations.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Chilliwack Rotary Christmas Parade
Indoor Arenacross
What to Expect:
High-speed motorcycle racing within an indoor arena.
Description:
Indoor Arenacross is an adrenaline-packed event featuring high-speed motorcycle racing within an indoor arena. The event showcases skilled riders navigating challenging tracks, providing an exhilarating experience for spectators.
Where: Chilliwack | More Info: Indoor Arenacross
Victorian Christmas Evening - Historic Stewart Farm
What to Expect:
Traditional farmhouse Christmas with local food and vintage games.
Description:
Celebrate the Victorian Christmas at Historic Stewart Farm with a traditional farmhouse Christmas, featuring local food, vintage games, and festive entertainment.
Where: Surrey | More Info: Victorian Christmas Evening - Historic Stewart Farm
ILLUMINATE Maple Ridge
What to Expect:
Colorful lanterns and live performances.
Description:
Celebrate the Night in Maple Ridge is a free family-friendly event featuring light installations, lanterns, games, storytelling, crafts, costumes, music, and food trucks. Enjoy roving entertainment, a carousel, and captivating contortionists.
Where: Maple Ridge | More Info: ILLUMINATE Maple Ridge
Christmas in Williams Park - Langley
What to Expect:
Free community event with holiday activities and decorations.
Description:
Christmas in Williams Park is a free community event in Langley, BC, featuring holiday activities and decorations for families to enjoy.
Where: Langley | More Info: Christmas in Williams Park - Langley
Steveston's Winter in the Village
What to Expect:
Interactive exhibits and activities celebrating Richmond's transportation history.
Description:
Steveston's Winter in the Village features the Winter Tram, offering a journey through Richmond's interurban travel history. Enjoy holiday-themed activities, a LEGO recreation of heritage buildings, and storytime with the Richmond Public Library. Explore the cozy reading nook and participate in a winter-themed scavenger hunt.
Where: Steveston | More Info: Steveston's Winter in the Village
Christmas by the Railway - Kilby Historic Site
What to Expect:
Historic site Christmas activities with toymaker and ginger cookies.
Description:
Visit Kilby Historic Site on December 7th to explore the toymaker's workshop, write a letter to Father Christmas, make a tree ornament, and taste fresh ginger cookies. Experience the charm of Christmas past in a historic setting.
Where: Harrison Mills | More Info: Christmas by the Railway - Kilby Historic Site
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Abbotsford (15 miles)
- Mission (16 miles)
- Maple Ridge (30 miles)
- Walnut Grove (31 miles)
- Langley (32 miles)
- Bellingham (37 miles)
- Port Coquitlam (38 miles)
- Coquitlam (38 miles)
- White Rock (39 miles)
- Surrey (40 miles)
- Port Moody (40 miles)
- Delta (43 miles)
- New Westminster (43 miles)