The holidays are just around the corner, and Coquitlam is brimming with ways to celebrate. From sparkling light displays and bustling craft markets to festive dining and family-friendly events, Coquitlam is full of seasonal charm. Whether you’re shopping locally, catching a holiday concert, or sitting down to a cozy meal, this guide will help you make the most of the season.
Get into the Holiday Spirit with Early Events
Glen Pine Winter Market
Start your holiday shopping early at this long-running community market. You’ll find handmade treasures, knitwear, cards, and seasonal décor created by local makers. With free admission and a cozy, holiday atmosphere steps from Lafarge Lake SkyTrain, it’s the perfect way to ease into the festive season.
When:
– November 14 | 4 – 9 p.m.
– November 15 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where:
– Glen Pine Pavilion (1200 Glen Pine Court)
HollyDaze in the Heights
Holiday magic takes over Ridgeway Avenue as HollyDaze in the Heights returns for its fourth year. This free, family-friendly street festival features live music across two stages, festive food and drinks, and plenty of shopping from local artisans and neighbourhood businesses. Kids can get creative with cookie decorating and Christmas crafts, while adults enjoy site-wide beer, cider, and wine.
When:
– November 15 | 4 – 9 p.m.
Where:
– 1000 Ridgeway Avenue
Shop the Season’s Best Holiday Markets & Craft Fairs
Oakdale Christmas Craft Fair
Find one-of-a-kind gifts from more than 50 vendors offering handmade crafts, décor, and treats at the Oakdale Christmas Craft Fair. Enjoy free admission, photos with Santa and the Grinch, face painting, door prizes, and giveaways for the first 100 visitors.
When:
– November 22 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where:
– Greater Heights Learning Academy (550 Thompson Avenue)
Coquitlam Christmas Craft Fair
A long-standing favourite, this three-day fair features high-quality handmade items, seasonal baking, and festive décor. With door prizes, treats, and presale tickets available online for faster entry, it’s a can’t-miss event for local shopping.
When:
– December 5 | 3 – 9 p.m.
– December 6 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
– December 7 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where:
– Poirier Forum (618 Poirier Street)
Coquitlam Christmas Night Market
Shop under the lights with the Coquitlam Christmas Night Market featuring artisan vendors, food trucks, and live music. Admission is $2 for guests over 16, with partial proceeds supporting local charities. Plan to stroll next door afterward to enjoy the Lights at Lafarge display.
When:
– December 12 | 5 – 9 p.m.
– December 13 | 4 – 9 p.m.
– December 20 | 4 – 9 p.m.
Where:
– Evergreen Cultural Centre (1205 Pinetree Way)
Coquitlam Farmers Market Christmas Market
The annual Christmas edition of the Coquitlam Farmers Market features more than 40 vendors, from bakers and crafters to local farmers and producers. Enjoy live holiday music, hot food, and festive community spirit.
When:
– December 13 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where:
– Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex (633 Poirier Street)
Enjoy Some Family-Friendly Holiday Magic
Get Crafty with Festive Greenery Creations
Add a personal touch to your holiday décor with hands-on workshops at GARDENWORKS. Craft fresh arrangements using evergreens and seasonal accents—ideal for your home or as a handmade gift. Space is limited so be sure to register for one of the following workshops:
– Festive Holiday Planter: November 15 | 11 a.m.
– Evergreen Winter Wreath: November 23 | 11 a.m.
– Winter Hellebore Planter: December 6 | 11 a.m.
– Holiday Magic Terrarium: December 13 | 11 a.m.
– Holiday Glow Centerpiece: December 20 & 21 | 11 a.m.
Where:
– GARDENWORKS (2575 Barnet Highway)
Snap a Photo with Santa
Make holiday memories that last with a visit to Santa’s Photo Studio. Capture a festive moment with the big guy himself in a cozy setting. Sessions are by pre-booked appointment only, so be sure to reserve your spot early before Santa heads back to the North Pole.
When:
– November 19 to December 24 | Times vary
Where:
– Coquitlam Centre (2929 Barnet Highway)
Step Back in Time for Your Holiday Portraits
Snap your festive portraits during Mackin House’s annual Holiday Fundraiser. The 1909 heritage home is styled as a vintage Christmas scene—tree, fireplace, piano, and seasonal props—with a professional photo setup and staff on hand to take your family photos. Registration is required and pets are welcome.
When:
– November 20 to December 6 | Times vary
Where:
– Mackin House (1116 Brunette Avenue)
Help Make the Holidays Brighter for Local Families
Help spread holiday cheer by donating new, unwrapped gifts to the SHARE Family & Community Services Toy Drive. The event features festive fun, including arts and crafts, Selfies with SHARE Bear, and other surprises. Donations support the SHARE JOY program, which provides toys for children and teens and food hampers for local families in need.
When:
– November 22 | 12 – 4 p.m.
Where:
– Coquitlam Centre (2929 Barnet Highway)
See the City Glow at Lights at Lafarge
Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor light display returns to brighten the winter months. The kick-off celebration on November 28 features live entertainment, food trucks, and a fire-and-light performance. Since the 1.2-km loop around Lafarge Lake glows nightly through February, that means there’s plenty of time to enjoy a dazzling display that keeps the holiday spirit shining well into the new year.
When:
– Kick-off celebration | November 28 | 5 – 8 p.m.
– Nightly display | November 29 to February 28 | 4 – 11 p.m.
Where:
– Town Centre Park (1299 Pinetree Way)
Gather Around for Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Storytime & Festive Fun
Bring the whole family for a cozy holiday afternoon with Mrs. Claus and Willow the Elf. Enjoy cookie decorating, holiday crafts, face painting, and a chance to write a letter to Santa. Perfect for kids ages 3 to 5 (though all ages are welcome). Just be sure to register to save your spot.
When:
– December 6 & 13 | 1 – 4 p.m.
Where:
– GARDENWORKS (2575 Barnet Highway)
Experience a Vintage Christmas at Mackin House
Step into the spirit of a vintage Christmas at Mackin House. Join in seasonal crafts with the Coquitlam Public Library, enjoy festive snacks, and make your own old-fashioned ornaments. Don’t forget to stop by the train station for a photo with Santa taken by donation. Free admission, and no registration required.
When:
– December 7 | 12 – 3 p.m.
Where:
– Mackin House (1116 Brunette Avenue)
Catch a Holiday Show or Concert
Celebrate the season with a lineup of holiday performances at the Evergreen Cultural Centre (1205 Pinetree Way).
A Zaniac Christmas
Get ready for laughter, energy, and a whole lot of holiday fun with A Zaniac Christmas. Juggler, comedian, and Guinness World Record holder Alex Zerbe brings his signature mix of physical comedy, beatboxing, music, and magic to the stage for a family-friendly show bursting with surprises. It’s an off-the-wall, all-ages spectacle that guarantees smiles from start to finish.
When:
– November 30 | 3 – 4 p.m. & 7 – 8 p.m.
Coquitlam Youth Orchestra Holiday Concert
Celebrate the season with a full day of performances by the Coquitlam Youth Orchestra. From junior to senior ensembles, young musicians from across the Lower Mainland share their talent through a vibrant program of classical and holiday favourites. It’s an inspiring showcase of local artistry and a joyful way to experience live orchestral music this winter.
When:
– December 6 | 11:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Pacific Symphonic Wind Ensemble: Christmas Forever
The Pacific Symphonic Wind Ensemble returns with Christmas Forever, a fresh and playful take on holiday music. Led by David Branter, the 45-piece ensemble brings together some of the region’s finest wind and percussion musicians for an evening that blends festive classics with bold, modern arrangements. Expect exceptional musicianship, rich harmonies, and a few surprises along the way.
When:
– December 6 | 7:30 – 9 p.m.
Coastal Sound: Winter Song
Let your spirits soar with Winter Song, a joyful celebration of choral music by Coastal Sound. This family-friendly concert blends uplifting harmonies, playful moments, and heartwarming performances from the Coastal Sound Youth Choir and DeCoro. From sing-alongs to stunning seasonal arrangements, it’s an evening filled with warmth, community, and the shared magic of voices joined together.
When:
– December 7 | 4 – 6 p.m. & 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Piano Heist: A Very Merry Heistmas
Get ready for a holiday concert unlike any other. A Very Merry Heistmas brings pianists Nico Rhodes and Patrick Courtin back to the stage with their signature mix of showmanship, comedy, and virtuoso talent. Expect everything from a ragtime “Rudolph” to a rock-and-roll Nutcracker Suite, plus sing-along moments and plenty of laughs.
When:
– December 11 | 7:30 – 9 p.m.
Winter Morning Walks – musica intima & Trilogy
Experience a moving blend of poetry and music in Winter Morning Walks, performed by musica intima with jazz ensemble Trilogy. Based on Ted Kooser’s reflective poems and reimagined by Vancouver composer Réjean Marois, this performance captures quiet moments of resilience and beauty through delicate harmonies and jazz-infused textures. The result is an intimate, contemplative concert that feels both timeless and deeply human.
When:
– December 14 | 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Ballet Victoria’s The Gift of The Nutcracker
Ballet Victoria brings new life to a timeless favourite with The Gift of The Nutcracker. Set to Tchaikovsky’s classic score, this reimagined production combines graceful choreography, theatrical humour, and heart-warming storytelling. With dazzling costumes, a few surprises, and plenty of holiday spirit, it’s a festive performance that delights both longtime fans and first-time ballet-goers alike.
When:
– December 16 | 7 – 9 p.m.
– December 17 | 3 – 5 p.m. & 7 – 9 p.m.
– December 18 | 3 – 5 p.m. & 7 – 9 p.m.
Quiring in the New Year – The Quiring Chamber Players
Ring in the New Year with an evening of exceptional chamber music performed by the Quiring Chamber Players and special guests. This beloved annual concert showcases masterful performances by acclaimed local musicians, including violist Reg Quiring and pianist Rosemary O’Connor. Known for their warmth, virtuosity, and engaging repertoire, the ensemble delivers a concert experience that’s both celebratory and elegant—an inspiring way to welcome the year ahead.
When:
– December 31 | 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Savour the Season: Holiday Feasts Made Easy
Celebrate the holidays with great food and good company. From festive brunches and chef-prepared take-home dinners to elegant Christmas buffets and New Year’s celebrations, Coquitlam’s dining scene offers plenty of ways to savour the season.
GreenTee Country Club Westwood Plateau
Gather family and friends for a holiday brunch buffet, featuring classic breakfast favourites from Chef Kalvin and visits from Santa, a Snow Queen, and a friendly snowman. Or skip the cooking and pre-order a take-home Christmas dinner, complete with roast turkey, stuffing, and all the traditional sides—ready for pickup on Christmas Eve so you can relax and enjoy the day.
When:
– Holiday Brunch Buffet | November 30 | Seating times at 10:45 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.
– Christmas Dinner Takeout | December 24 | Pick up at 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Where:
– GreenTee Country Club Westwood Plateau | Jess’ Sky (3251 Plateau Boulevard)
The Wild Fig Restaurant + Bar
The Wild Fig is turning dining into a full holiday experience. Enjoy chef-inspired menus that highlight seasonal flavours in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With themed events and family-friendly touches, it’s a go-to spot for good food and great memories this time of year.
– Brunch with Santa: December 7
– Enhanced Holiday Brunch: December 14
– Christmas Brunch: December 21
– Christmas Dinner Buffet: December 25
– New Year’s Eve Celebration: December 31
– New Year’s Day Brunch: January 1
Where:
– The Wild Fig at the Executive Plaza Hotel (405 North Road, #1)
