7 Fun and Affordable Winter Activities for Students in Vancouver this Christmas Break
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to embrace the festive season! As we prepare for our annual school closure, we want to remind our students who are staying in Vancouver that the city is brimming with magical holiday activities to enjoy. From twinkling lights to cozy markets, there’s something special for everyone this Christmas. To help you make the most of your break, we’ve listed seven fun and affordable ways to soak up the holiday spirit. Read on and get inspired for a season full of cheer and adventure!
1. Skate into the Winter Spirit: Robson Square Ice Rink – A Must-Visit for Students
Photo: Robson Square Ice Rink
Source: https://www.robsonsquare.com/
Looking for an exciting yet affordable way to enjoy Vancouver’s winter vibes? The Robson Square Ice Rink is the ultimate spot for students to chill out—literally! From November 29, 2024, to February 28, 2025, glide under the open sky and soak in the festive energy of downtown. Whether it’s skating with friends, capturing Instagram-worthy shots, or just taking a break after a hectic semester, this spot has it all.
Why Students Love It
- Free Admission – No excuses here; it’s free to skate!
- Affordable Rentals – Don’t own skates? Rent them for just $5.00, or snag ice cleats for $2.00. Helmets are included with rentals for free.
- Festive Holiday Vibes – Experience the Twelve Days of Christmas (Dec 13–24, 2024), featuring live music from Vancouver’s top musicians while you skate or sip a cozy hot drink.
When to Go
- Daily Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Christmas Day: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. - Location: Robson Square Ice Rink
Cost
- Free if you bring your own skates!
- Rentals: $5.00 for skates, $2.00 for cleats.
Student Tips
- Make it Social: Gather your friends, pack a thermos of hot chocolate, and turn it into a memorable day out.
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by showing up early to secure your skates and enjoy quieter ice time.
- Bring Your Camera: With twinkling lights and a magical downtown backdrop, this rink is perfect for photos that’ll light up your social feed.
📝 More Info: Check out the Robson Square Ice Rink Website.
2. The Shipyards Christmas Market – The Ultimate Festive Hangout for Students (Free Admission!)
Looking for the perfect holiday outing that won’t strain your wallet? The Shipyards Christmas Market in North Vancouver is a must-visit destination for students this holiday season. From November 29 to December 24, this market is packed with cozy vibes, seasonal treats, and plenty of fun activities—all with free admission!
Why Students Love It
- Free Admission – No entry fees mean more money for holiday treats and gifts!
- Skating Fun – Bring your own skates or rent a pair to glide across the sparkling outdoor ice rink.
- Unique Shopping – Over 70 wooden stalls filled with artisanal gifts and crafts—perfect for finding unique presents or treating yourself.
- Seasonal Snacks – Stay warm with bratwursts, mulled wine, and classic hot cocoa while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
- Festive Entertainment – Admire the Christmas tree, visit Santa’s Chalet, and soak in live music and community performances.
- Insta-Worthy Spots – With twinkling lights, festive stalls, and scenic décor, your holiday photos will look straight out of a movie.
When to Go
- November 30 – December 22:
Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. - December 23: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
- December 24: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Location: Conveniently located near the Seabus and bus routes, the market is easy to access and affordable for students.
Student Tips
- Visit at Night: The holiday lights are even more magical in the evening.
- Grab a Treat: Warm up with mulled wine or bratwurst while exploring the market.
- Take Photos: The combination of festive décor and waterfront views makes for unforgettable pics.
📝 More Info: Visit the Shipyards Christmas Market Website.
3. Bright Nights at Stanley Park – A Magical Holiday Escape for Students
Photo: Vancouvers Best Places
If you’re searching for an enchanting and budget-friendly holiday activity, Bright Nights at Stanley Park has you covered! From November 29, 2024, to January 4, 2025, this iconic event transforms the park into a dazzling winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights and festive displays. And the best part? It’s by donation, with proceeds supporting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund—so you can enjoy a magical night while giving back to the community.
Why Students Love It
- Budget-Friendly: No fixed price—pay what you can and still enjoy a festive, unforgettable evening.
- Insta-Worthy: Light tunnels, glowing displays, and festive scenery offer endless opportunities for holiday selfies and group shots.
- Relaxing Vibes: Wander through the twinkling lights with a hot cocoa in hand and de-stress after school.
- Feel-Good Fun: Every donation supports families in need, so you’re spreading joy while having fun.
When to Go
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025 (Closed December 25).
- Hours: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily.
- Location: Stanley Park – 690 Pipeline Road.
- Getting There: Travel with friends using public transit for an affordable trip, or carpool and park for free nearby.
Student Tip: Visit after dark for the full glow-up effect, and dress in cozy layers for a comfortable evening. Whether you’re out with friends, your partner, or flying solo, Bright Nights at Stanley Park is the perfect holiday tradition to add to your winter bucket list!
📝 More Info: Check out this website for a glimpse of the magic!
4. Ride the Holiday Ferris Wheel – Downtown Vancouver’s New Festive Highlight
Photo: Tree Lighting Vancouver
Source: https://604now.com/downtown-vancouver-holiday-ferris-wheel-art-gallery-2024/
This December, downtown Vancouver is taking the holidays to new heights—literally! A brand-new Ferris wheel will be set up next to Western Canada’s tallest Christmas tree in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery. From December 1 to 26, this festive attraction promises stunning views of the city’s sparkling holiday lights and is the ultimate affordable winter activity for students.
Why Students Love It
- Affordable Fun – Rides are just $7 per person, making it a budget-friendly way to experience holiday magic with friends.
- Unreal Views – Get a bird’s-eye view of downtown Vancouver’s dazzling lights, holiday displays, and all the action.
- Perfect Photo Spot – Snap epic photos with the 76-foot-tall Christmas tree—lit up in all its glory—plus skyline shots from the top of the Ferris wheel. Your Instagram will shine brighter than ever.
- Easy Access – The Ferris wheel is in the heart of downtown, so grab a coffee or hot chocolate, hop on, and make a night of it.
When to Go
- Dates: December 1 – 26, 2024.
- Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Thursday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Location: In front of the Vancouver Art Gallery
Student Tip: Visit on Saturday or Sunday evenings to see the tree and city lights at their brightest. Pair your ride with a walk-through downtown’s other festive spots for a complete holiday vibe!
📝 More Info: Read more here.
5. Dundarave Festival – Coastal BC’s Most Festive Christmas Tree Display
Photo: The Dundarave Festival of Lights
Source: https://northvancouver.com/the-dundarave-festival-of-lights/2501330/
If you love twinkling lights, ocean views, and festive vibes, the Dundarave Festival in West Vancouver is a holiday experience you won’t want to miss. Running from November 30, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this free event features the largest outdoor display of Christmas trees in coastal British Columbia, all beautifully decorated by families, businesses, and community groups.
Why Students Love It
- Free Admission – No cost to enjoy the magic of this festival, making it a no-brainer for your holiday plans.
- Cozy Vibes by the Water – Wander along the scenic waterfront, surrounded by twinkling Christmas trees and the peaceful sounds of the ocean.
- Feel-Good Experience – Each decorated tree is part of a larger mission to support the Lookout Foundation and its work to end homelessness—festivity with purpose!
- Festive Photo Backdrop – The stunning display of lights with the ocean as a backdrop is pure gold for holiday selfies and group shots.
- Laid-Back Fun – It’s the perfect place to clear your head, take in the season’s magic, and catch up with friends over a relaxing evening stroll.
When to Go
- Dates: November 30, 2024 – Beginning of January 2025.
- Location: West Vancouver’s waterfront at Dundarave Beach.
Student Tip: Go at sunset or after dark when the Christmas trees light up the waterfront—it’s truly magical! Grab a warm drink and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
📝 More Info: Visit Dundarave Festival Website and Vancourver’s Best Places.
6. VanDusen Festival of Lights – A Magical Holiday Experience for Students
Celebrate the season with one of Vancouver’s most iconic holiday events: the VanDusen Festival of Lights! Running from November 29, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this event transforms the beautiful VanDusen Botanical Garden into a glowing wonderland of over 1 million twinkling lights spread across 15 stunning acres.
Why Students Love It
- A Unique Experience – Explore themed light areas and exciting new displays like the interactive mycelium installation, Wood Wide Web, and the Salmon Run, inspired by BC’s Great Bear Rainforest.
- Dancing Lights Show – Watch 2 dazzling light shows synchronized to music every 30 minutes on the hour—perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
- Endless Photo Spots – With glowing pathways, reflective water displays, and twinkling trees, this event is a photographer’s dream. Get those magical winter pics for your feed!
- Festive Food & Drinks – Warm up with tasty holiday treats and drinks from a variety of food vendors. Think hot chocolate, warm cider, and delicious seasonal bites.
- Affordable Fun – Tickets are $18 for students and youth—it’s a fantastic value for a night of wonder and cheer.
When to Go
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
- Closed: December 25.
- Hours: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (last entry between 8:30–9:00 PM).
- Location: VanDusen Botanical Garden – 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC.
Ticket Info
- Students (Youth 13–18): $18
- Adults: $28
- Pro Tip: Book early! Tickets sell out fast, especially for weekends and holidays.
Student Tip: Go with friends, split transportation costs, and make it a memorable night out. The Dancing Lights Show, and magical displays are best enjoyed with good company and a warm drink in hand.
📝 More Info: Visit the VanDusen Festival of Lights Website.
7. Learn to Ski or Snowboard at Grouse Mountain – A Snowy Adventure for Students
Ready to hit the slopes this winter? Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking for a fun group activity, West Trek’s Learn to Ski or Snowboard package at Grouse Mountain is the perfect way to experience the snow. At only $145 per student, this all-inclusive day trip offers everything you need to dive into the world of skiing or snowboarding.
Why Students Love It
- All-Inclusive Convenience – From transportation to rentals, everything is covered, so you don’t have to stress about logistics or gear.
- Learn a New Skill – Certified instructors will guide you through a 2-hour lesson, so you’ll feel confident on the slopes in no time.
- Group Fun – Go solo or gather your friends for an unforgettable day in the mountains. If you’re part of a larger group, consider the private VGC group option (minimum 20 participants).
- Stunning Views – The Skyride to Grouse Mountain offers breathtaking views, making this trip as scenic as it is fun.
What’s Included
- Roundtrip private transportation from Canada Place.
- A friendly West Trek Mountain host to help you along the way.
- Skyride ticket to the top of Grouse Mountain.
- Lift ticket and all necessary equipment rentals (skis, poles, boots, or snowboard gear).
- A 2-hour ski or snowboard lesson with certified instructors.
- All fees and taxes.
When to Go
- Available on multiple dates (check the West Trek schedule).
- Private group tours for VGC students available upon request. Just finalize your numbers one week in advance!
Student Tips:
- Dress Warm: Layer up! It can get chilly on the mountain, so don’t forget gloves and a good jacket.
- Bring Snacks: Pack some snacks or grab a bite at Grouse’s cozy on-site restaurants.
- Share the Experience: Make it a group outing for extra fun. Plus, carpooling or splitting rides to Canada Place is a great way to save money.
📝 More Info: Visit West Trek’s Website for bookings and details.
Are you a current VGC student? Be sure to also follow the VGC Activities page and our Activities Instagram page for our seasonal activities this fall!
Posted on December 19, 2024, by Fabrizio Breton