Christmas Market III - Vancouver

The holiday season is here.  One of the ways to get into the spirit of the season is to go to a Christmas Market.  There is nothing like the sights, sounds and smells of a market to evoke thoughts of a Dickens' or old world Christmas.  Originally a European tradition, begun in the 1400s in Germany, more and more markets are being held in cities around the globe.

Over the next few weeks you will have the opportunity to read about some Christmas Markets in North America, and in other countries - this time The Christmas Market in Vancouver, BC.

The Vancouver Christmas Market, styled after a typical German Christmas Market, is an established holiday tradition now in its fifth year.  It is located at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza in the city centre.  http://vancouverchristmasmarket.com/

The Market opens November 22 and it runs until December 24.  It is open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily; 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on December 24.  Cost of admission is $7; $6 for seniors; $3 for children ages 7-12; and children 6 years and under are free.  Paying for one admission gets you a season pass allowing you to return free of charge as many times as you wish for the duration.  Entering between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. gets you a 2-for-1 admission.  Click the link for more admission packages and to buy tickets Vancouver Christmas Market tickets.  Weekdays during the day tend to be less crowded than evenings or weekends.

Herrnhuter star

Sip mulled wine, eat a bratwurst or pretzel or other food items from 17 different selections as you stroll through the Marke enjoying the twinkling lights, and the traditional wooden huts decorated with homemade Herrnhuter stars.  Shop for gifts at any of the 30 vendors.

The Vancouver Christmas Market appeals to all ages.  Activities for children include decorating their own gingerbread, havong their picture taken with the market's mascots Holly and Jolly and also creating their own Herrnhuter star.  Santa Claus arrives December 6 and will be at the Market to meet his fans and for pictures every Saturday and Sunday until December 21 from 12 noon to 4:30 p.m..

Entertainment includes the X-mas Factor a holiday singing competition, and carol singing.  A special feature is the Christmas Carousel at the Market.  Click the Entertainment Schedule to see a full list of planned events.

The Vancouver Christmas Market is easily accessible by public transportation.  Vancouver is within a day's drive of many cities in the Pacific Northwest.  Direct daily flights are available from many North American cities to Vancouver International Airport.  Another option is to fly to Seattle (150 mi/250km) and rent a car, take a bus or train to Vancouver.  There are many hotels and restaurants in Vancouver close to the Christmas Market.