Is December a good time to visit Vancouver?

Yes, there is a reason why we call December a magical time to visit Vancouver, that it is a great place to be during the winter holidays, with snowy landscapes and a warm urban atmosphere. The weather might not be pleasant to everybody, but the special vibe of the holiday season provides some activities that can be experienced solely during this time of the year. The advantages and disadvantages will help you decide whether December is a good time to visit

Weather and Atmosphere

In December, it is cold, wet, and it is often cloudy in Vancouver. The average temperatures lie between 1°C and 7°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C to 4°C. Snow is rare in the city itself, but the surrounding mountains often have snow, adding to the winter charm. Nevertheless, when you like the fresh air, foggy mornings and quiet and brooding sea atmosphere, the weather can feel charming or uniquely moody and not a reason to be discouraged.

Festive Events and Holiday Spirit

The holiday spirit is one of the largest attractions in Vancouver during the month of December. The city is filled with lights and decorations and the Christmas events are going on in the city. Places such as Bright Nights at Stanley Park, VanDusen Gardens Festival of Lights and Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge give a stunning night scenery. Robson Street and Gastown in downtown Vancouver are beautifully decorated, just ideal places to walk in the night and take pictures. Another winter activity is ice skating at Robson Square, which brings both locals and visitors.

Winter Sports and Nearby Mountains

December is generally the start of the ski season, as nearby mountains like Grouse, Cypress, and Seymour often open for skiing and snowboarding by mid-December, depending on snow conditions. Although you may not be a sports enthusiast, a ride on the Skyride through Grouse mountain will offer you a panoramic view of the city surrounded by snowy tones. Vancouver is close to the North Shore mountains which are easily accessed without a long road trip to get to the mountains and escape the winter.

Fewer Crowds and Cozy City Life

December is generally quieter than the busy summer months, though the city can get lively around Christmas and New Year as compared to the summertime when tourism is high and so it is easy to visit museums, cafes and attractions without having to wait in long queues. It is an opportune moment to visit the Museum of Anthropology, Granville Island Public Market or to have a warm drink in local coffee shops. The cozy indoor culture, with fireplaces, artisan bakeries, and festival markets, contributes to the appeal of going in the winter.

Conclusion

Daylight hours are short, and the rain and early sunsets are to be anticipated. It is necessary to pack waterproof clothes and warm layers. December might not be the best month when you want to enjoy the sunshine and do some hiking. Still, for those who enjoy festive lights, cozy city life, and easy access to snowy mountains, December can be a magical time to experience Vancouver.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

All information entered on this form will be kept strictly confidential and subject to our privacy policy once received by us. Your transaction will be secured using SSL/TLS encryption.