Saturday, Nov. 30th, 2024 from 4 – 8 p.m.
Explore a world of dazzling lights, winter activities and local entertainment at Spirit of the Season Festival on Nov. 30, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Shipyards. Those in search of festive fun will find seasonal decor, outdoor ice skating, holiday shopping, and an evening of live music and dance performances on Shipbuilders’ Stage.
The festival will kick off with Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving atop a City fire truck, followed by welcoming ceremonies from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations and a performance by the Eagle Song Dancers starting at 4 p.m.. Mayor Buchanan will then lead us from Shipbuilders' Stage to the foot of Lonsdale and light the holiday tree between 4:15 p.m. and 4:45 p.m.
Festive Activities for Everyone
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Watch the City’s giant Christmas tree light up the sky between 4:15 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, led by Mayor Linda Buchanan at the foot of Lonsdale.
Experience the Magic
Snap a photo with Santa & Mrs. Claus or in our glowing light-up frame, glide on the region's largest outdoor skating rink, visit a community booth, and more.
Live Music & Performances
Holiday Markets
Shop for unique gifts from local artisans and crafters at the market in the Pipe Shop and the new European-style Shipyards Christmas Market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the entertainment schedule?
Activities Schedule
Shipbuilders' Square Stage Schedule
| Time |
Location |
Details |
| 3:45 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Square
|
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by Fire Truck |
| 4:00 p.m. - 4:05 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
səl̓ilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation Welcome
|
| 4:05 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Welcome & Performance by the Eagle Song Dancers |
| 4:15 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
Mayor Linda Buchanan Welcome |
| 4:20 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage to the Foot of Lonsdale |
Tree Lighting Ceremony |
| 4:45 p.m. - 5:05 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
Ridgeway School Band Performance |
| 5:20 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage
|
Method of Modern Movement Dance Performance
|
| 5:30 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
Perform Art Studios Dance Performance |
| 5:45 p.m. - 6:05 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
North Shore Academy of Dancing Performance |
| 6:20 p.m. - 6:40 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
ShowStoppers - an acappella holiday performance |
| 6:50 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. |
Shipbuilders' Stage |
Ballet Bloch Nutcracker Performance |
7:15 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
|
Shipbuilders' Stage
|
School of Rock Junior House Band |
When is the lighting of the Christmas tree?
The tree lighting with Mayor Buchanan will take place at the foot of Lonsdale Plaza between 4:15pm and 4:45pm, steps away from Shipbuilders' Stage.
Do I need tickets to get into the festival?
The festival offers free admission for everyone!
How do I get to the festival?
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, and access is easy by transit, with the SeaBus arriving right at The Shipyards and bus connections nearby. There will be no bike valet for this event. Bike racks are located along Wallace Mews west of the rink, on Victory Ship Way near Reckless Bikes and next to Tap & Barrel, and next to Polygon Gallery. There are also pay parking lots within a few blocks but is limited vehicle parking available, please view our
map of parkades or check out
alternative travel options.
Is the area accessible?
The event spaces and public realm are all accessible, including the public washrooms. There are elevators from the parking lots for accessibility needs. Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome on the skating rink.