The 2017 Festival Of Lights at Van Dusen Gardens

Vancouver can be a dreary place in the winter, with the constant rain and the nights turning dark around four o’clock. It can be hard to find any cheer among the wet gloom. To ease the darkness of the season there are many holiday themed events around the city, but none light up the night like the Festival of Lights at Van Dusen Gardens.

The festival is currently in its 33rd year, bringing fifteen acres of the gardens to life with over 1 million lights. Perfect for every age group, the beautiful light creations are spellbinding, with some favourite holiday characters brought to life before your eyes. Tickets are $18.50 for adults, $14.05 for seniors over 65 and youth between 13-18, and $10.95 for a child 4-12. All tickets also include a ride on the magical holiday carousel.

Over the past few years the event has raised money for the Make-A-Wish foundation, which is dedicated to making life better for sick children across Canada. To date, the festival has raised over $350,000. From the gingerbread forest and the dancing lights across the lake to the hot chocolates and the mulled wine, there is something for everyone.

The event will be happening from December 1st, 2017 through to January 7th, 2018, and is closed on Christmas Day. Hours are 4:30pm – 9pm until the 15th, when they become 4:30 – 10:30pm. The event is on rain, snow, or shine and is incredibly magical no matter what the weather. Grab your tickets (or stuff some in a stocking!) to the Van Dusen Festival of Lights today and experience a little enchantment this winter.