Winter celebrations are returning to The Shipyards in North Vancouver, bringing outdoor skating, markets, live entertainment, and holiday cheer to the city’s waterfront.
The Shipyards, located in Lower Lonsdale, will host a range of winter events beginning later this month, including the opening of the region’s largest outdoor ice rink and the annual Spirit of the Season Festival.
Outdoor Skating at the Shipyards Plaza
The Shipyards Skate Plaza opens for the season on Friday, November 28, and will remain open until March 2026. The outdoor rink will operate daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission, helmets, and skate aids are free, while rentals cost $8 for adults and $5.50 for children. Visitors bringing their own skates can enjoy the rink at no charge.
The waterfront rink will also host special programming, including:
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The Skate Plaza Opening: November 28, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
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New Year’s Eve Public Skate with DJ Tunes: December 31, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
According to the City of North Vancouver, the Skate Plaza continues to be a central attraction during the holiday season. “Winter at The Shipyards is a special time that brings the community together to celebrate the season,” the City said in a statement.
Spirit of the Season Festival on November 29
The Spirit of the Season Festival will take place on Saturday, November 29, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., marking the official start of holiday festivities at The Shipyards.
The event will feature live music, dance performances, a ceremonial tree lighting, ice skating, and holiday markets. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive atop a City firetruck at 4 p.m., followed by a special welcome from the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations and a performance by the Eagle Song Dancers at Shipbuilders’ Stage.
At 4:20 p.m., Mayor Linda Buchanan will guide attendees to the foot of Lonsdale Avenue for the tree lighting ceremony.
Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy:
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Public skating at the Shipyards Skate Plaza: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
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Free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Cates Deck: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
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The Shipyards Christmas Market: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
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Vancouver Etsy Co. Holiday Pop-Up in the Pipe Shop: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Markets and Events All Season Long
The Shipyards will feature a full lineup of holiday markets and events from November through December, offering shopping and family-friendly programming for residents and visitors.
Scheduled events include:
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November 12 – January 4: The Polygon’s Holiday Shop
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November 28 – December 24: The Shipyards Christmas Market
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November 29: Spirit of the Season Festival at The Shipyards
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November 29 – 30: Vancouver Etsy Co. Holiday Market at The Pipe Shop
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December 6: Burrard Yacht Club Festival of Lights at Burrard Inlet
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December 13 – 14: Christmas Shipyards Artisan Market at The Pipe Shop
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December 20 – 21: Community Market Christmas Edition at The Pipe Shop
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Various dates in November and December: Made in the 604 Holiday Market at The Pipe Shop
With skating, shopping, and performances scheduled through the end of the year, The Shipyards is set to remain a hub of winter activity along North Vancouver’s waterfront.
