VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights returns for its 40th anniversary from November 29, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Celebrated as one of the most spectacular lighting displays in the world by Condé Nast, the event transforms 15 acres of the Garden into a winter wonderland with more than one million twinkling lights.
“The Festival of Lights is always a magical time at VanDusen Botanical Garden, and this year is especially meaningful as we celebrate 40 years of this special holiday tradition,” says Ema Tanaka, Garden Director. “We invite the public to join us in celebrating this incredible milestone and making new memories with us this holiday season.”
This year’s festival brings exciting new features, including an interactive mycelium installation and a spectacular display inspired by the Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia. Visitors can follow the salmon’s journey from the Garden’s streams to its lakes and embark on a multi-sensory experience.
Returning favourites include the Dancing Lights, set to music and displayed every 20 minutes, as well as themed light areas throughout the Garden. Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive food vendors offering holiday treats.
Event details
The VanDusen Festival of Lights will run daily from 4 pm to 10 pm November 29 to January 5, except on December 25, with the final entry time from 8:30 pm to 9 pm each night.
VanDusen Botanical Garden will host a sensory-friendly evening on December 3, welcoming neurodiverse individuals, their families, and caregivers. Capacity will be reduced by 50%, with lowered audio levels and no flashing lights.
Ticket prices (excluding GST and service fees)
- Adults (19 to 64 years): $28
- Seniors (65+) and Youth (13 to 18 years): $18
- Garden (VBGA) members with valid card: $17
- Children (5 to 12 years): $11
- Children (4 years and under): Free (ticket reservation required)
Save 10% on group bookings of 50 or more tickets. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit vandusenfestivaloflights.ca.
Reflecting on a legacy of giving
This year, Make-A-Wish will not be able to partner with VanDusen Festival of Lights. Visitors previously stopped by the candle grotto at the Scottish Shelter to donate and light a candle.
“Due to capacity constraints within our small Make-A-Wish team and our dedicated group of volunteers, we regret that we are unable to continue our fundraising efforts at VanDusen Botanical Garden,” says Christine Buono, Chapter Director for BC and Yukon. “We are truly grateful for the longstanding partnership and their support in helping us grant life-changing wishes for children in BC, Yukon, and beyond.”
“We are thankful for our partnership with Make-A-Wish Canada over the past four decades, which has raised more than $650,000 for the charity since 2001,” says Ema Tanaka. “We hope that in the spirit of generosity, the community will continue to support Make-A-Wish Canada and their great work in making dreams come true for children facing critical illnesses.”
For more information on the VanDusen Festival of Lights and to purchase tickets, please visit vandusenfestivaloflights.ca.
VanDusen Botanical Garden extends special thanks to Grosvenor and Mayfair West by Grosvenor for their support of Festival of Lights.