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Welcome to The Playground, a place for Vancouver families.Every week I post a roundup of upcoming family-friendly events and activities. I’m always on the lookout for fun stuff to do, so if there’s something happening that you think I should know about, don't hesitate to contact me. |
Everyday we see Grouse Mountain looming in the north, Sadie likes to point out that that's where Santa lives (in a house mind you) and his reindeer too. After a day enjoying The Peak of Christmas festivities on Grouse, I almost believe it too.
Our journey to Santa's house begins with a ride on the Skyride. On a beautiful clear day like the one we had, you can enjoy stunning views of the city, the ocean and the surrounding mountains. We like to watch the trees go from sunny and green to snowy white the further up the mountain we go.
Once we get to the top of Grouse we made our way to Santa's Workshop. While we waited our turn to visit him, we said hello to Dancer and Vixen and listened to a Wildlife Staff member give an interpretive session (twice daily - 2pm & 4pm) where we learned everything we ever wanted to know about reindeer including how they pull Santa's sleigh.
Finally it was our turn to go inside Santa's warm and toasty workshop (open daily from 12 - 8pm). Visiting him inside his workshop makes the experience very authentic. Sadie doesn't like to get too close to the guy unless there is a candy cane involved but we managed to have a quick chat about the Detroit Tigers (Santa is a fan) and a photo. The digital photo was in my inbox by the time we got home.
Skating on a frozen pond is a rarity in Vancouver and is something Sadie's Ontario bred Dad loves to do with her. Rental skates are available or you can bring your own. I liked watching them circle the 8000 sq.ft. pond from the nearby outdoor fire pit. Skating is open from 9am - 10pm daily.
When the time came for us to escape the cold, we made our way inside and checked out some Christmas trees. With hot chocolates in hand we capped our visit by watching A Charlie Brown Christmas in the Theatre in the Sky.
On until December 24th, the Peak of Christmas is the only way one can for certain have a White Christmas in Vancouver. All of the activities are complimentary when you purchase regular admission, an annual membership, a winter season pass, or lift ticket.
