8 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in British Columbia

As the Christmas season comes into full force, there is no shortage of holiday fun and festivities in British Columbia. With the quickly approaching Christmas holiday, British Columbia transforms into a cozy, quaint winter wonderland. With twinkling lights, cheerful holiday decorations, and the wafting scent of tasty treats, the region’s Christmas markets are a must-see attraction. If you find yourself in or near Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, or Richmond this holiday season, there are eight incredible Christmas markets exclusive to British Columbia that you must check out.

1. Vancouver Christmas Market

The city’s adorable Christmas Market is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Adopting the trends and experience of a traditional German Christmas market, the Vancouver Christmas Market offers festive music, wooden stalls, and numerous European treats, such as potato pancakes, bratwurst, schnitzels, and strudels. After tasting German cuisine, shop the lovely handcrafted ornaments and locally-made soaps while taking in the magical atmosphere of a festive market. 

2. Winter Treasures Artisan Market

Running from November 9-December 20, 2023, the Winter Treasures Artisan Market offers a wonderful way to shop locally. With pottery, jewelry, soap, and candles, just to name a few, this market highlights some of the best makers in Vancouver. It is free to enter the market to browse, and who knows what you’ll discover while perusing the stalls. 

3. Eastside Flea Holiday Market

Opened weekends through December 17th, the Eastside Flea Holiday Market boasts flash tattoos, spiked eggnog, and an aura photo booth. With 45+ food trucks and numerous tasty seasonal beverages, this holiday market offers a fresh take on holiday traditions with a quirky and unique style. You won’t want to miss this!

4. New West Farmers Holiday Market

Held at River Market in Vancouver, this annual holiday market will showcase nearly a hundred vendors, numerous food trucks, and live music. You’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts to unique culinary treasures. The live music adds to the festivities as you stroll around, hunting for the perfect Christmas gifts for your loved ones.

5. Christmas Shipyards Artisan Market

The Christmas Shipyards Christmas Artisan Market is held at the Pipe Shop, a restored building, located in North Vancouver. This year’s market has over a dozen vendors that will be selling quality crafts and artisan products. Even more, the Shipyards is home to an outdoor ice-skating rink and North Vancouver’s Christmas tree. There are special events at the Shipyard that you can attend throughout the season that you can visit when the market is closed.

6. BCIT Alumni Holiday Market

Although this market is an online shop, the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is holding its annual market. The market is in its fourth year, and it supports BCIT alumni-owned businesses. If braving the cold and crowds is not on your list this year, make it a priority to shop local by shopping at the BCIT Alumni Holiday Market. 

7. Steveston Hub Christmas Market 

The Steveston Hub Christmas Market will host over thirty local vendors this year. The Steveston Hub regularly serves as a co-work office, yoga studio, and community stage, but during the holiday season, the space is transformed into a winter wonderland. This community space in Richmond offers a great holiday market for you to check out this holiday season!

8. Chinatown Holiday Market

The Chinatown Holiday Market can be found in Vancouver’s Chinatown. With the support and participation of popular Chinatown businesses and vendors, the market will showcase music and dance performances and a public tea ceremony. Many unique gifts will be available for purchase. 

Check Out These 8 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in British Columbia

During the holiday season, the largest cities across British Columbia come alive for the Christmas festivities. Whether you’re looking for traditional German cuisine, artisan-crafted gifts, or unique culinary delights, each of these markets will be sure to offer unique gifts. Even more, the joy of walking around a holiday market during the Christmas season is magical. Check out one of these eight Christmas markets in British Columbia during this holiday season!