The days are getting shorter, and the nights are getting longer… anyone else craving Glühwein? One of my best friends becomes a living Christmas countdown this time of year. Lucky for us, the Vancouver Christmas Market is just around the corner! On Thursday, November 13th, The Vancouver Christmas Market will be back for its 15th year! The festival will take return to Jack Poole Plaza (next to the Vancouver Convention Centre).
Known for its authentic European village feel (my German-Austrian family love it), the Market surrounds a beautiful multi-story gazebo, the “Christmas Pyramid”, for 360-degree views of musical performers performing carols. There’s a large selection of drinks that can be bought beneath the Pyramid, from Glühwein and Pilsners to non-alcoholic options like apple cider or their new hot chocolate. There is food everywhere, too. My favourite is the gulasch, served in a bread bowl, and I always leave with a pretzel for the way home.
You can get all your holiday shopping done in one visit to the Vancouver Christmas Market! Over 90 total vendors of unique goods and specialty foods will be at your disposal. Their stunning selection of Christmas ornaments is out of this world, with shimmering glass baubles for every tree.
The Market is so fun for families, with an stunning free carousel and storytelling events. If you don’t have a tree at home for your family photo, fret not! There will be photographers for hire and free photo ops everywhere, including the iconic walk-through Christmas tree.
Adults will have a blast too. There’s karaoke, music bingo, and trivia events all over the schedule. Whether you bring your friends for happy hour or bring your partner to sneakily buy them exactly what they want, the Vancouver Christmas Market has everything you need for that festive feeling.
Tickets are discounted this year to celebrate the 15th anniversary. November passes are sold out, but season passes are still available for $32.99, and single-day advance tickets are only $6.99. There are also workshops from $29.99 and a Breakfast With Santa event is $69.99/adult ($10.99/child).
I can’t wait to get in there for a big bowl of gulasch… I might see who I can convince to come out with me Thursday night, any takers?