The City of North Vancouver invites you to join us as we kick off the winter season celebrations at The Shipyards on December 2. The annual Spirit of the Season Festival marks the start of a season filled with fun at the popular waterfront destination.
“People always tell me how much they love the Shipyards, especially at this time of year,” said Mayor Linda Buchanan. "The Shipyards was designed to bring people together. I encourage everyone to go for a skate, admire the twinkle lights, grab a warm drink, or sit by one of our public outdoor fire pits. I’ve always believed this is the most wonderful time of the year, and I can’t think of a better place to celebrate than at our iconic waterfront. I invite everyone to get into the spirit of the season with us down at the Shipyards!”
Spirit of the Season Festival
The Festival begins at 4 p.m. on December 2, starting with an entrance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, followed by an Indigenous welcome ceremony and blessing from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). After a performance by the Eagle Song Dancers, Mayor Buchanan will light the holiday tree.
The City of North Vancouver is proud to sponsor this free, all-ages, family friendly event with activities presented by community organizations, skating and live performances, a meet and greet with Disney’s Anna and Elsa, live music, public skating, and a holiday market at the Pipe Shop. To find the full schedule and event details, visit cnv.org/SOTSF.
Skate Plaza Opening
The Skate Plaza will be open daily to the public from 1–8 p.m. with free admission starting Friday, December 1 until March 2024. Skate rentals will be available at $5 for children and $7 for adults, along with free helmet and skate aid rentals.
Winter at The Shipyards
During December The Shipyards will host several holiday markets, Christmas Eve caroling, and a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration. The fun will continue past December with more activities, so check
The Shipyards event calendar or follow
@TheShipyardsCNV on Instagram for updates.
How to Get to The Shipyards
Visitors are encouraged to walk, take transit and bike to The Shipyards. The area is pedestrian-friendly with connecting trails and safe spaces to walk with friends and family. Bike parking is located throughout the area. Access is easy by transit, with the SeaBus arriving right at The Shipyards and bus connections nearby. Street parking will be limited in the area, but pay parking lots are available within a few blocks.
About The Shipyards
The City of North Vancouver’s award-winning public waterfront and social heart of the community, The Shipyards features restaurants, cafes, shops, and services, a boutique hotel, space for community events, concerts and markets, plus the region’s largest outdoor skating rink in the winter and a splash park in the summer.