It’s the most wonderful time of year again...winter at The Shipyards!
Enjoy everything the City’s iconic waterfront has to offer including holiday festivals, skating, shopping and dining, and more–helping you create memories all season long.
The Spirit of the Season Festival Returns Saturday, November 28
Holiday wonder and cheer returns to The Shipyards! Join us for the annual Spirit of the Season Festival on Saturday, November 28, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. throughout The Shipyards area.
Event highlights include the giant holiday tree lighting, ice-skating, live music and performances, markets and other festive activities. Plus, a special appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Performances begin at 4 p.m. at the Foot of Lonsdale before the official opening ceremony starts at 5:15 p.m. The ceremony kicks off with opening remarks from Mayor and Council. At approximately 5:45 p.m., the giant holiday tree is lit and the festivities continue all evening long until 9 p.m.!
Throughout the Spirit of the Season Festival, guests can enjoy:
- Public skating at The Skate Plaza | 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Performances at the Foot of Lonsdale | 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by City fire truck to Carrie Cates Court | 5 p.m.
- Opening ceremony and tree lighting with the Mayor at the Foot of Lonsdale | 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Shipyards Christmas Market will be open before and during the Spirit of the Season Festival, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Find more information at cnv.org/SpiritOfTheSeason.
The Shipyards Skate Plaza Opens Friday, November 27
The Shipyards Skate Plaza, the region’s largest outdoor ice rink, will be open for the season starting Friday, November 27. The Skate Plaza will be open daily until early spring 2027.
On Saturday, November 28, guests can enjoy public skating at the Skate Plaza before and during the Spirit of the Season Festival.
Skating, helmets and skate aids are free, and skate rentals are available at a cost of $8 for adults or $5.50 for kids. Guests who bring their own skates to the Skate Plaza can enjoy the rink for free!
Stay in the loop on operating hours and special events throughout the season at cnv.org/SkatePlaza.
Find Holiday Dining & Shopping – All Winter Long!
Throughout the winter, The Shipyards is the perfect spot for taking an evening stroll, grabbing a bite to eat and completing some seasonal shopping at one of the many local shops and businesses.
Back by popular demand, the outdoor European-inspired Shipyards Christmas Market is open from Friday, November 27, until Thursday, December 24. Admission is free, and the market is open daily with food, shopping and more to enjoy!
Discover More Seasonal Magic at The Shipyards & Beyond
Find more seasonal events and activities, shopping, dining and more at cnv.org/TheShipyards and by following along on social media at @TheShipyardsCNV.
Explore all that the City has to offer this winter by visiting cnv.org/Events and following @CityofNorthVancouver.