By now, we already know that you are a smart human! Why? Because you know that life is too short for living in a constant minus 0-degree weather and therefore you chose Vancouver as your Canadian destination.
The Great White North A.K.A Canada is known for its harsh winters; Vancouver’s winter on the other hand is quite reasonable, especially once you have adjusted to the rain. Due to the non-extreme weather, there are many things to do during the winter, outdoors, indoors and budget-friendly. In this article, we will give you a general idea of the experiences that you can have in Vancouver and BC during the Winter. The activities we will mention are mostly the same major ones that occur every year so that when you arrive in this beautiful city you don’t have to wonder what to do anymore!
The outdoors
Are you an outdoors person? If yes, then you would be happy to know that so are most Vancouverites. By now you probably know that there is an activity strongly associated with every season, for winter it is skiing/snowboarding. Winter in Vancouver is all about the snow, the ice and hockey!
Skiing and snowboarding are very popular in Vancouver. Every winter, Vancouverites keep an eye on the snowfall and which slopes are opening. There are four top mountains for skiing in Vancouver depending on your level of experience with skiing/snowboarding, you may want to check them all out before committing to a seasonal pass. Here are the top four slots:
Whistler Blackcomb
Grouse Mountain
Mount Seymour
Cypress mountain
Tip: There are lotta options for outdoor fun, try to always end it with a warm cup of hot chocolate milk 🍫 Optional of course, we are looking at you non-chocolate lovers 👀. So, if you are not a sporty person, taking a walk around Stanley Park’s or Van Dusen’s Garden during Christmas is always a good and super chill alternative!
The indoors
Now, in case you're not an outdoors person (or maybe you are but you just rather be warm which is completely understandable), we have some alternative indoor activities for you. Check this out:
Wanderlust Dining - Dinner Under the dome: Immerse yourself in one of the most romantic dinners you could have in Vancouver! Have a fancy dinner right under the stars in this panoramic glass made dome, through which you’ll be able to admire the beautiful night sky Experience this either with your significant other or maybe with your friends or family, as the domes are able to fit up to 8 people. The price range of this experience goes from $150 to $400 per person, depending on the day and the time in which you would like to go.
Reflections Bar: A well-known local bar that turns itself into a winter wonder that is definitely worth visiting! Reflections bar not only is a rooftop bar, which already makes it a really sexy location, but it also levels up its game by having some wonderful seasonal decor and a special seasonal menu… what do some winter-inspired cocktails sound like? Find it at the Rosewood Hotel in Downtown Vancouver.
Attend a Winter themed candlelight dinner: Candlelight dinners are no mystery for Vancouverites, however, when winter comes the experience they offer reinvent itself by offering themed concerts! Have a romantic dinner while listening to an incredible Jazz quartet.
Prices range between $35 to $45 per person.
The free
No worries, we have been in your shoes and we understand not everyone has the possibility of affording those types of experiences. That’s why we have a last round of alternative experiences that are perfect for budget-friendly enthusiasts😊
Free Ice Skating Rink: Opening its doors every December. Robson Square’s Ice Skating Rink is quite famous. It’s always a fun activity to do and it has no entry cost. The only thing you need to pay is for the rental of the skates (if you don’t have any), which is $5 per person. If you already have a good pair of skates then you are more than welcome to enjoy the rink for free.
Glow Maple Ridge: Just an hour away from downtown Vancouver, the city of Maple Ridge has never been disappointed with its long tradition of making its streets glow in the lights of Christmas! Bringing the holiday cheer to its streets, Maple Ridge is a great place to visit during Christmas time. Concerts in the park, great holiday snacks and amazing instagrammable spots
Attend the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim! (If you dare): Quite a famous event among the locals, the Polar Bear Swim it's a public gathering which occurs exactly on New Year, and the idea it’s simple... Thousands of people gather on English Bay in Downtown Vancouver with the sole purpose of getting all at the same time into the icy waters!! 🥶😵 Would you be able to do it?? Regardless of your answer, this event it's still quite fun even if you are not one of those brave (or crazy) people who dare to go into the cold waters. Definitely a must-see!
So, what do you think of these Winter Activities?? Let us know your thoughts! You can always reach out to us to suggest a new article, give us your opinion or express any concerns. Remember, Thrivve is a Magazine made for us, by us. For international students by International students ;) We are always happy to hear from you.
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