Welcome to the holiday season! If reading that sentence already has your heart rate up, then it might be your cue to spread things out on your calendar a bit this year. Don’t take on too much! Start by outsourcing some of the baking, getting your packages pre-wrapped, and scheduling a group Christmas email ahead of time. That will leave plenty of opportunity for a well-deserved staycation!
Whether you’re looking to plan something for yourself, the family, or a getaway for two, the Fraser Valley is filled with spontaneous itineraries that easily fit into your now less-hectic holiday schedule. We know of course that making it happen before Saint Nicholas arrives can all be easier said than done, so it’s well worth considering one of these vacay ideas for the week between Boxing Day and New Years…and beyond! Make it a gift to yourself this year, and you don’t even have to wrap it.
Abbotsford
Romantic
Start by unwinding together with a long rejuvenating sit in the cedar sauna at Just Breathe Spa, then set the mood with a shared bottle of the signature Pinot Gris at Singletree Winery. From there, you can relax and recharge at the Tudor-style Brookside Inn, complete with gorgeous views of Mount Baker.
Family
Kick off your family-friendly outing by checking into Coast Abbotsford Hotels and Suites for a roomie HQ before you start your adventure. The mini golf and go karts at Castle Fun Park are next, then wrap up the day with a stop at Old Yale Brewing for nachos and board games. A solid start to your agenda of family fun.
Friend getaways
Credit Robyn Bessenger
Catch up over wine and farm-to-table fare at Restaurant 62. Then, after dessert, take a wander through Downtown Abbotsford, exploring the eclectic mix of contemporary and heritage storefronts. If it starts getting late and you’re keen to keep the convo going, check in at Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre and start planning tomorrow’s brunch spot.
Solo vacations
A do-not-disturb sign at Best Western Plus Regency Inn will ensure you can enjoy the start of your alone time uninterrupted. Now that you’ve had a soak and a social break, you’re ready to broaden your perspective with a bit of local expression at The Reach Gallery Museum. It’s likely about time for a sweet treat now, so head to Birchwood Dairy Farm for some farm-fresh food and ice cream.
Chilliwack
Romantic
Credit Robyn Bessenger
Set a magical tone together by strolling through Lights at Cultus Lake, where you’ll watch thousands of lights twinkle on the water while listening to Christmas carols. Head back to your room at the cozy Hotel Morado to freshen up and get ready for dinner at Frankie’s Italian, where you’ll connect over cocktails and Saltspring mussels.
Family
Get into the holiday swing of things by seeing Santa Claus himself at District 1881, where you can also stand in awe of the grand Christmas tree in the square. From there, follow the sound of sleigh bells to Christmas at Greendale Acres where you can ride the farm train through the Christmas trees and gorgeous light displays. If you’re all tuckered out by this point, Hampton Inn by Hilton has you covered (they even have an indoor waterslide!).
Friend getaways
Grab a couple of bouquets from Minter Country Garden before heading to your spacious rooms at Fairfield Inn & Suites Chilliwack, so you can awake to the fresh floral scents. From there, stop in at Fortitude Wine Bar, where the in-house sommelier will curate an evening of impeccable local vino.
Solo vacations
Re-center, breathe deep and touch grass with a nature walk as you Experience the Fraser. Once your appetite is worked up, drop by Anita’s Bread & Coffee for fresh pastries crafted with locally-sourced ingredients and a dynamite cup of joe. Next, check into your room at The Vedder River Inn, and plan your next day of nearby nature experiences!
Harrison
Romantic
Slow down and connect over coffee and fresh, made-from-scratch pastries Cabin Fever Junction Bakery, before trying your hand at Axe throwing with Fraser River Lodge. If you get hungry for seconds, they also have Campfire & S’mores! Finally, a room at the Fraser River Lodge overlooking the Fraser River is the perfect arena for an evening of deep and meaningful heart-to-hearts.
Family
Credit Robyn Bessenger
Fuel up with the crowd-pleasing burgers at Basecamp Burger Joint before heading to Lights by the Lake (running from November 22 – January 11, 2026). Marvellous holiday displays, a quaint waterside promenade—the perfect spot to celebrate Christmas and take a family photo! Wrap up the day by crashing at Sandpiper Resort, a waterfront family resort with comfy suites for your whole crew.
Friend getaways
Get all the latest tea over tacos and horchata at Taco Rio, then settle into some post-gossip relaxation with a roomy shared suite at The Lodge on Harrison Lake. Now rested and ready for adventure, you’re off BC Sport Fishing Group, where you can make even more stories about the one that got away.
Solo vacations
Your “me” day begins with a visit to the Sasquatch Museum to kick off your search for the legendary giant, where you can first learn all about local heritage and legend. While you’re there, pick up a free Sasquatch Trail postcard to guide you along the way! The self-care continues at Agassiz Corner Café where you can indulge with a double-baked almond croissant and specialty coffee. Cap things off with a stay at Harrison Beach Hotel where you can unwind in the sun deck hot tub.