Vancouver Christmas Market

ⓘThis article was published on December 5, 2010 and could contain information that has since changed or become out-of-date.
Please be mindful when reading, commenting on, or sharing this article.

Guten tag! A German tradition has finally arrived in Vancouver – the christmas market. With the weeks leading up to Christmas, all kinds of vendors set up stands to sell their wares and creations in a jolly environment.

The Vancouver Christmas Market aims to recreate that feeling, but in a watered down version. The traditional wooden huts are decorated with branches of pine, coloured balls and mini figures of Santa Claus and aren’t very large, but are overflowing with various goodies. It’s a very nice mix of central Europe with different foods, toys, ornaments, clothing and entertainment.

One of the larger tents held unique ornaments from Käthe Wohlfahrt. A variety of miniature wooden ornaments greets you as upon entering before being introduced to glass and other decorations made of wire or small gentle birds with real feathers. Larger wooden figurines stood at the end near the cash registers. I found it to be a little pricey, but there’s something in there for just about everyone.

Customary German fare is served up from bratwurst to stollen and even suckling pig. You can also purchase special ciders (with or without alcohol) that come in small blue ceramic mugs made just for the market for $8 ($4 if you return the mug). There are so many choices, you won’t leave feeling hungry.

For the young ones, there’s also a covered area where kids can go in and make their own crafts, but with a small price for each activity ($6 individually).

In the centre of the market is a festooned gazebo that acted as a stage for music and dance, with different displays each day. While I was there, a group dressed in traditional Croation garb were performing a folk dance.

The Vancouver Christmas Market is nestled in the plaza just outside of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on the corner of Hamilton Street and Georgia Street. Admission if $5 for adults (13 years and up), but there are discounts during the week days. Bring cash, as admission and many of the vendors do not accept plastic. Come early on weekends or go during the week when it isn’t crowded to enjoy more of the market. The market is open until Christmas Eve.