The holiday season is just around the corner, and Vancouver Island is gearing up for a festive celebration. With Christmas markets, craft fairs, twinkling lights, and delicious treats, the island is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Here’s a guide to some of the magical Christmas events happening this year:
Coombs Christmas Market:
Location: To be determined
When: December 2 & 3, from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Kick off the holiday shopping season at the Coombs Christmas Market. Discover the perfect, locally crafted gifts for your loved ones. From artisan crafts to gourmet food items, this market is a treasure trove of handmade, local Christmas goodness. For more details, visit the Arrowsmith Agricultural Association.
Christmas Market & Walk of Lights at Arbutus Meadows:
Location: 1515 Island Hwy E, Nanoose Bay
Dates: December 2, 9, and 16, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm; Festival of Lights on December 23
Experience the magic of Christmas at Arbutus Meadows every Saturday in December. Explore the indoor venue with talented local vendors, enjoy live music, and savor delicious food. Outside, you’ll find a Festival of Lights Walk, Bethlehem Village, a live Nativity Scene, farm animals, hay wagon rides, bonfires, smores, a Lego Winter Village Display, and more. It’s an enchanting holiday experience.
The Holiday Market at Nanaimo North Town Centre:
Location: Nanaimo North Town Centre
Dates: December 2-3; 9-10; 16-17
Hours: Saturdays – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sunday – 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Hosted by The Mom Market Vancouver Island, this Christmas vendor market is your one-stop shop for holiday gifts and goodies. Explore a winter wonderland with free admission, grand prizes, music, Christmas cocktails/mocktails, and more. This market is for everyone, not just moms, and is perfect for finding unique and special presents.
Providence Farm Christmas Craft Fair:
Location: 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan
Date: Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Step back in time and visit the Providence Farm Christmas Craft Fair, set in the historic heritage property. Over 40 local vendors will showcase their handmade crafts, from candles and carvings to toys and clothing. Explore the three floors, take pictures with Santa, engage in kids’ crafts, enjoy live entertainment, and savor nostalgic food in the Dining Room. Best of all, this fair supports Providence Farm’s therapeutic programs for adults and seniors with various challenges.
St. Mark’s Christmas Bazaar:
Location: Church Hall – 138 Hoylake Rd. W, Qualicum Beach
Date: Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Don’t miss St. Mark Anglican’s Christmas Bazaar. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up delightful Christmas baking and preserves and discover handcrafted gifts, books, curios, treasures, and mysterious mystery bottles. Relax with a muffin and a cup of tea with friends while you’re there.
The holiday season on Vancouver Island is a time of joy, community, and cherished traditions. These Christmas events offer a chance to find unique gifts, enjoy delicious treats, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. As the island transforms into a winter wonderland, there’s no better time to embrace the festive spirit and celebrate the magic of the season.