The holiday season in Vancouver, British Columbia, is filled with fun and engaging activities throughout the season. Few compare to the size and scope of the Vancouver Winter Wonderland. While most of the festivals have one speciality or main attraction, the Vancouver Winter Wonderland is filled with games, shopping, activities, and so much more to enjoy. This festival is Vancouver's largest holiday festival, lasting 10 days and bringing in a staggering 100,000+ people during its duration. This festival is unique in part because it takes place indoors at the sprawling 45,000-square foot PNE Forum in downtown Vancouver.
There will be more than 100 vendors selling great Christmas gifts, so it will be easy to find something for everyone on your list. Stop by the one-of-a-kind three-story snowglobe that’s filled with fun interactive elements for all ages to enjoy. A giant Christmas tree is beautifully decorated and on display for those perfect holiday photos. Various games for children are available to play and enjoy. The festival also takes pride in helping the community with their Arts & Crafts for Charity program, which gives its proceeds to local charities. Santa and his reindeer will be making an appearance for any children who would like a photo with him. All this fun and entertainment is sure to make you hungry, and it’s a good thing there is a variety of food vendors that feature plenty of delicious options. For a unique and unforgettable holiday experience, bring yourself and/or the entire family to Vancouver Winter Wonderland. We interviewed Event Organizer, Wilson Lee, about the festival and all the activities that it includes.
RAL: Tell me about the Vancouver Winter Wonderland.
WL: Vancouver Winter Wonderland is a 10-day event that takes place inside the PNE Forum from December 11-20. We are expecting to draw over 100,000 guests this year. The typical demographic makeup of the event is young families, couples, and friends. This event is unique compared to other Christmas events because of the 10-day duration (makes attending more flexible), indoor environment, and an all-inclusive magical experience (food, shopping, performances, features, and interactive entertainment).
RAL: What can I expect as an attendee during a typical day at the festival?
WL: As an attendee, you can expect a wide range of activities at Vancouver Winter Wonderland. This includes carnival games, pictures with Santa, an interactive Christmas experience in a walk-through snow globe and three-story slide. We will have performances from local choirs, dancers, and much more. Our dining experience include food trucks and food stalls, all serving unique delights. As for the environment, Vancouver Winter Wonderland is situated in an easily accessible location just on Hastings and Renfrew. There is paid parking found easily around the area. The event itself will have both a large indoor area and an outdoor area where people can catch some air.
RAL: What can visitors expect to find for local lodging?
WL: With the large amount of people coming from the neighboring areas in British Columbia, combined with those heading up here from Seattle, it would be wise to make reservations in advance. There are many lodging locations in downtown Vancouver, a couple of them to consider are the Hyatt Regency Vancouver and the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown.
RAL: What does this festival mean to the community?
WL: With attendance being what it is, the influx of people into the community helps boost sales for the local shops, restaurants, and hotels. Many of the festival-goers love going out into beautiful downtown Vancouver to experience all the popular activities and attractions while meeting new people. The residents of Vancouver are fun, creative, and welcome visitors to the community. In addition, Vancouver Winter Wonderland will be active in local donations to Variety.
RAL: Why should people come to the Vancouver Winter Wonderland?
WL: People should come visit Vancouver for this event because the festival showcases the festivities of Christmas that reflect upon Vancouver as a beautiful city. There will be never-before-seen attractions at the Vancouver Winter Wonderland that will ensure visitors an unforgettable experience. Our interactive attractions, like rides and carnival games, will bring families and groups together for loads of fun. Also, the variety of food available is a catalyst for sharing and caring.
For more information about the Vancouver Winter Wonderland please visit their website.