A modern holiday season tradition, the Vancouver Christmas Market has once again brought its twinkling lights, Alpine village vibes, and mulled wine to downtown for a month-long stay.
Running through Dec. 24, 2018, the 9th annual Vancouver Christmas Market is set up at Jack Poole Plaza and offers guests a festive, cheery escape into a Christmassy wonderland.
Vancouver Christmas Market/Facebook (feature)
For 2018, in addition to the expected decor, food, drink, and live entertainment--and that lovely carousel--the Market has added some fun new features.
“This year, we are thrilled to present even more engaging holiday experiences for visitors of all ages to create lasting memories with their loved ones. Whether gathering to indulge in traditional German delicacies, shopping together for that one-of-a-kind gift, or meeting with friends to take in a wide range of special events [...] we look forward to welcoming new and returning guests to celebrate this joyous time of year!” says Malte Kluetz, Founder and President of the Vancouver Christmas Market in a media release.
Here's what's new this year:
- Alpine Lounge: Heated seating area for enjoying food and drink
- The Winterdeck: featuring a charming entrance arch, a giant lit-up picture frame, and stunning views of the North Shore
- Lovers' Lane: a 30-foot long tunnel adorned with 10,000 twinkling lights and mistletoe
- Love Locks: A nearby installation near the tunnel to which lovers can attach a ‘Vancouver Christmas Market Love Lock’
Plus, of course, Santa and his sleigh will be there, Canada's first walk-in Christmas tree (covered in 36,000 twinkling lights), and expanded food offerings that will have your cravings satisfied from rustic German fare to modern plant-based options.
Vancouver Christmas Market/Facebook
You'll be able to chow down on tons of goodies, including Glühwein (a hot-spiced mulled wine); German Bratwurst; Gulasch; Spätzle; Schnitzel; Strudels; Transylvanian Chimney Cakes; a selection of German beer; award-winning German style wine; vegan and vegetarian fare from the Organic Villa Vegan Haus; charcuterie from the Charcuterie Haus; sweet and savoury macarons prepared by Bon Macaron Patisserie; syrup-filled pancakes made by Mr. Hot Cakes; warm roasted chestnuts from JJ’s Fresh Roasted Chestnuts; and gluten free hard apple cider made by Howling Moon Craft Cider.
There is also lots for kids to do, including photos with Santa and crafting, the carousel to ride, and much more for the whole family to enjoy.
Cozy up to The WunderBAR for a Christmas cocktail and some charcuterie and escape the inclement weather in this warm, dry space. It's on every night from 5-9:30 pm until Dec. 23 (and from 5-6pm on Dec. 24).
For 2018, some additional special programming has been introduced, including a festive "Club Christmas" on Thursday evening, when you can grab some post-work drinks and enjoy the Market's extended hours. Dance to tunes spun by local DJs or try some karaoke in the Alpine Lounge.
Plus, don't forget you can grab some unique gift items from the marketplace vendors. You'll find everything from traditional German Christmas stars to mulling spices, felted ornaments, handmade infant shoes, ugly holiday sweaters, and more.
Tickets to the 2018 Vancouver Christmas Market are priced as follows: Adult $12, Seniors $11, Youth Age 7-12 $5, Children Age 0-6 FREE. Family ticketing and season's passes also available.
Vancouver Christmas Market
When: Nov. 21-Dec. 24, 2018
Where: Jack Poole Plaza, Coal Harbour
