The holidays are when we all love spending time with family, friends and loved ones. Everywhere we look there seems to be something fun to do, but many of them come with a price tag. We’ve compiled a list of budget-friendly holiday activities so you can enjoy this festive time and keep your wallet happy at the same time.
Coast Capital Savings Christmas Square
Before the well-loved Rogers Santa Claus Parade in downtown Vancouver, we’re hosting a morning of holiday fun at the Coast Capital Savings Christmas Square. Bring the family and decorate gingerbread cookies, write letters to Santa, listen to some great music and take a photo at our photo booth where you can enter to win a $1000 prize.
December 4
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Free
We’re in a new location this year on the 800 block of Howe street near Robson Square.
Rogers Santa Claus Parade
A family favourite in Vancouver, the Rogers Santa Claus Parade attracts 300,000 spectators and features marching bands, festive floats and community groups. And of course, the big guy himself will be there. This budget-friendly holiday activity will leave you more excited for Christmas than ever,
December 4
Cost: Free
Visit their website for parade route information and more details.
Bright Nights in Stanley Park
Visit Vancouver’s best park and take in the sight of three million lights. Bright Nights in Stanley Park is a great time for your kids and makes a great date idea too.
November 28 – January 1
Cost: $6.00 – $12.00 depending on ticket type
Visit their website for hours and more information.
Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees helps raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital. Visit locations in Vancouver and Victoria and make a donation to vote on your favourite tree. And hey, if you’re in Victoria, make sure to check out the tree our Bay Centre branch decorated. We may be a bit biased, but we think it’s pretty awesome.
Varying dates during November and December, visit website for details.
Cost: Suggested donation of $5.00 to vote
Robson Square Ice Rink
What better way to ring in the holidays like a skate around a cool skating rink in downtown Vancouver? Robson Square Ice Rink is a great place to bring a date, a loved one or the whole family.
Open until February 14, 2017. Visit their website for hours.
Cost: $4 skate rental
Vancouver Christmas Market
For the first year, we’re a sponsor of the Vancouver Christmas Market. Stop by and enjoy a hot drink, carousel ride and even some traditional food. Nothing will get you into the holiday spirit quite like the Vancouver Christmas Market. Plus, they’re in a beautiful new location at Jack Poole Plaza.
November 26 – December 31
11 AM – 9 PM (check their website for holiday hours)
Cost: $4.00 – $8.00
Coast Capital Youth Day at the Vancouver Christmas Market
Coast Capital Youth Day is happening at the Vancouver Christmas Market in December. Youth aged 13-29 can bring a friend to the market on us. Visit our promo page to learn how to get your tickets.
December 22
11 AM – 9 PM
Cost: $8 for two youth tickets
Other budget-friendly holiday activities
- Drive around your neighbourhood in search of the best Christmas light displays
- Host a potluck dinner with your closest friends
- Explore our mountains with a pair of rented snowshoes
- Go to a Christmas tree farm and cut down your own tree
- Grab a friend or family member and spend a day volunteering
