The holiday break is a fantastic time to try new things! If you’re looking to get out of the house and see what sights the season brings, then The Fraser Valley should be the first stop on your sleigh route. Whether it’s just for an afternoon exploring unique local shopping or a weekend staycation, The Valley has plenty of ways to nicely wrap up 2024 with a few last memories or kick off 2025 by making some fresh ones.
The calm before a new calendar is primetime for reflection and self-care. So you owe it to yourself to schedule a festive breather for every row of lights you hang from the eaves. Start with these spirited spots around the Valley, and you’ll be on your way to a well-planned (and well-rested) holiday staycation.
Langley Staycation
Langley is a destination for holiday merriment of all kinds. Take in the fresh and fragrant air of one of the local Christmas Tree Farms, or peruse the artisanal wares of local craftspeople at the area-famous Holiday Markets. This year, there’s even a holiday market at the local equestrian event centre care of Thunderbird Show Park’s Christmas in the Country. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and get ready for a well-spent winter afternoon!
With Merry & Bright at Martini Town, you can explore a postcard small town that’s straight out of a movie scene. That’s because it is! For the second year, this Langley film studio backlot welcomes visitors to explore a holiday setting worthy of the silver screen. Here’s a quick glimpse of the magic you can expect.
And of course, Glow Langley never fails to light up an evening with the shimmer of the holiday spirit. It’s one of BC’s most anticipated Christmas events for good reason!
If you find yourself wandering around Fort Langley Village, you might be taken by surprise by the characters of Cranberry & Mr. Crumm! An immersive holiday shopping adventure that champions local small businesses, this activation by Mastercard will steal your breath away with their holiday installations that have taken over the Village, including a giant chocolate moose, magical windows, a life-size ornament of a gold truck with an infinity room inside and much more!
Looking to spend the night (or two)? Langley has warm accommodation options for any way you want to unwind, and they’ve got a special limited-time offer for you—book a 2-night stay at any of their participating hotels and receive a $100 Visa gift card! Check out their “This One’s On Us” campaign here.
Abbotsford Staycation
Abbotsford brings its own unique rural character to the season as well! With Miracle at Old Yale Brewing, you can sample the crafted kegs and cocktails at one of the community’s favourite breweries. Surrounded by the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to, you’re invited to sip holiday spirits out of kitschy glassware and take in the wonderfully retro decorations.
For a holiday outing that the kids will love, stop by H & A Ross Farms for The Enchanted North Pole Experience! Take a jingle bell hayride all the way to Santa’s workshop, where little ones can leave letters for St. Nick and watch the busy elves getting ready for the big day. There’s also a Christmas market, outdoor movies, and a warm firepit to cozy up to.
And if you’re getting sleepy waiting up for Rudolph, Abbotsford’s accommodation options make for excellent holiday staycations.
Chilliwack Staycation
Over in Chilliwack, a surefire way to jump into the festive vibe is with Holly Jolly Chilliwack! Spread across the city, you can find a beautiful map of all kinds of merriment happening in December. Start with a fun train around Greendale Acres, or marvel at the thousands of bulbs reflected in the water at Lights at Cultus Lake.
To accommodate more holiday shoppers, Downtown Chilliwack and District 1881 will have extended evening hours! Check with the shops for more details about their opening hours.
If you think you might need another day to find the perfect gift though, there’s always Chilliwack’s Holiday Hotel Packages, which include free add-ons to your hotel stays. Staycation an extra day or two, so you can cross off every name!
Harrison River Valley
Harrison is making seasons bright all the way into January! At Sasquatch Mountain Resort you can take in the alpine air while enjoying the fresh powder. Skiing, snowboarding or tubing, there are lots of fun ways to get down the slopes.
With Lights by the Lake you can walk by the water, taking in the warm glow of lights that have been custom-built into displays such as the charming Sasquatch, local wildlife, and more! The nearby Starlight Skating Rink is also open for use, and it’s even free if you have your own skates! Rentals are available Friday – Sunday.
You can check out the gorgeous views from the water with a High Caliber Holiday Cruise. Their Harrison Holiday Cruise Package is a 3-hour private chartered tour on the Harrison River—a uniquely beautiful way to experience the season! To inquire and to book, email events@highcaliberbc.ca
Hope, Cascades, & Canyons
Hope is ready to celebrate the season, too! Downtown Hope is filled with quaint holiday shopping, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts made by local artists and craftspeople. And don’t forget to stop by the life-sized Grinch carving for a few photo ops!
At Manning Park Resort, you’ll find the perfect Christmas staycation spot with cozy cabins and warm fireplaces. Their planned vacation packages will take care of everything you need. The surrounding park is a winter paradise where you can explore the outdoors with alpine skiing, cross-country skiing or on the snowshoe trails. Head out for a brisk afternoon with plenty of breathtaking nature scenes.
