Enter a magical world for the 34th year of sparkling lights and holiday cheer at VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights.
The expansive attraction features over 1 million lights spread out over 15 acres of the garden. It runs from Dec. 1, 2018, until Jan. 6, 2019, but is closed on Christmas Day.
The festival also includes a breathtaking display on Livingstone Lake every 20 minutes, where lights dance to classic, disco, and soul music sets.
A carousel ride, which is open to people of all ages, is included for free. In addition, families, kids, and couples alike can take photos with Santa in the Visitor Centre halls until Dec. 24 for free.
Guests are invited to gather around fire pits and warm up with specialty holiday beverages in the Fireside Lounge. They are also encouraged to make a donation to Make-A-Wish Foundation, and make a wish while lighting a candle in the magical Make-A-Wish Candle grotto.
Kids can have fun making music with recycled instruments, or play the piano and sing along to holiday tunes in the garden.
Look out for frames, sets, and other selfie spots throughout the show and make sure to share with #VanDusenFOL.
In addition to activities, the festival also offers a plethora of delicious foods and drink.
This year’s available vendors and eateries include:
- Cin City Donuts
- Frosty’s Patio & Bar
- Shaughnessy Restaurant
- Santa’s Kitchen
- Truffles Café
- Truffles Pop-up Café
- Fireside Lounge
VanDusen Festival of Lights
When: Dec. 1-20 (4:30pm – 9pm); Dec. 21 to 24 (4:30pm – 10pm); December 26 to January 1 (4:30pm – 10pm); January 2 to 6 (4:30pm – 9pm)
Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden – 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver
Cost: $11-23; kids 3 and under are freeChildren ages 3 and under may for free.
