How soon is too soon to get excited about the holiday season?

Are you one of those people who can’t stand to hear Christmas music in the mall in early November, or are you the type who’s already immersed in yuletide cheer, with a holiday playlist on repeat, cozying up to Christmas movies, and contemplating the early tree setup?

We’ll confess, we’re unabashed enthusiasts of the holiday season. It’s a fleeting time of year, after all! Plus, Surrey is bustling with festive events in the coming weeks that will have you craving warm apple cider, exploring local crafts, and eagerly awaiting Santa’s judgment on your “nice or naughty” status.

Activities

Surrey Tree Lighting Festival

November 23 & 24 | Surrey Civic Plaza

Every year, Surrey kicks off the holiday season with the annual Surrey Tree Lighting Festival. This free, family-friendly event is filled with amazing light displays, a Holiday Market, live performances, amusement rides, Enchanted Eats and all things bright and merry. The tree will be lit at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23, and will stay lit throughout the day on Sunday, November 24 and until early January 2024.

WinterFest

November 23 – December 21 | Museum of Surrey, 17710 56a Avenue

Step into the wonder of WinterFest! Filled with holiday spirit, WinterFest offers exciting activities, hands-on crafts, and captivating displays for the whole family. Discover dazzling Christmas trees at the Christmas Tree Fest, join festive scavenger hunts, and get creative with Merry Makers crafts. Don’t miss the chance to meet Sensory Santa in a calm, welcoming environment. Celebrate the magic of the season at the Museum of Surrey—there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Noel Holiday Lights Festival

November 28 - December 23 | Cloverdale Fairgrounds, 17905 62 Avenue

The Noel Holiday Light Festival is a dazzling celebration filled with twinkling lights, festive displays, and seasonal activities perfect for all ages. Wander through themed light zones, discover magical photo spots, and enjoy holiday treats. This immersive experience offers a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit and create cherished memories.

Potters Christmas Store

Until December 24 | 19158 48th Avenue

Potters Christmas Store in Surrey is a holiday wonderland and a must-visit for seasonal shopping! Known as Western Canada’s largest Christmas store, Potters transforms its 28,000-square-foot space into a festive paradise filled with unique holiday decor, ornaments, gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Stroll through beautifully themed sections, from classic holiday scenes to whimsical displays, and get inspired to make your home merry and bright. Whether you’re looking for decor or gifts, Potters is a magical holiday destination for all ages!

Surrey Santa Parade of Lights

December 1 | Cloverdale Town Centre (route map)

The beloved Surrey Santa Parade is back! Get there early and stake out a spot along the parade route, then get ready for a traditional (with a twist) Santa Parade through Cloverdale. The traditional parade has everything you love about a parade, floats, marching bands, antique vehicles and horses, but the big event is the amazing lighted Truck Parade. Inspired by the 1997 Coca-Cola lighted truck commercial, the Surrey Santa Parade is truly magical! The Surrey Santa Parade starts at 5 pm precisely at the corner of 176A St and 60th Avenue and heads east to 177B Street.

Gingerbread Village

December 6 – 15 | 
Central City Shopping Centre, 10153 King George Blvd

Get ready for the sweetest event of the year at the Downtown Surrey BIA’s annual Gingerbread Village at Central City Shopping Centre! Step into a world of warm cinnamon and nutmeg as you marvel at the incredible skill and creativity that goes into each unique gingerbread masterpiece. This year’s theme, “My Favourite Storybook,” invites creators to bring beloved tales to life with gingerbread and icing. With over 20 intricate houses to explore, be sure to admire the fine details and cast your vote for your favorite creation!

Bear Creek Christmas Train

December 1 – 31 | 13750 88th Avenue

The Christmas mini-trains at Bear Creek Park are a magical delight. Each year, these charming trains, the Santa Express and the Christmas Night Train, are adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments. As they chug along the tracks, holiday music fills the air and riders enjoy Bear Creek Park’s enchanted forest, illuminated with colourful lights and displays. The Santa Express is a daytime-only train ride and tickets are only available on-site. Enjoy creating at the crafts table and be sure to snap a photo with Santa. Tickets for the Christmas Night Train are available online in advance and on-site. Keep an eye out for The Grinch, he’ll be wandering around select evenings spreading his version of holiday joy!

Victorian Christmas at Historic Stewart Farm

December 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22 | Elgin Heritage Park

Step back in time and escape the hustle and bustle of a modern-day Christmas! Visit Historic Stewart Farm for a free, local Victorian Christmas experience, where every weekend is filled with heritage demonstrations, festive music, crafts, and seasonal treats. On December 7, enjoy a rare evening visit to the farmhouse, beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Step inside to the sound of live harp music, savour holiday treats, make your lantern, and meet Father Christmas in the cozy pole barn.

Crescent Beach Sail Past

December 15 | Crescent Beach

Head to Crescent Beach for the magical Crescent Beach Yacht Club’s annual Sail Past! From 5 to 6 p.m., watch a dazzling parade of brightly lit boats as they cruise along the Nicomekl River, past iconic spots like Blackie Spit and the Crescent Beach pier. Led by the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue vessel and White Rock Sea Tours, the flotilla includes RCMP Shipriders, and club members, creating a sparkling spectacle for all. Don’t forget to bring non-perishable food donations to support the local food bank—drop-off bins are ready at the yacht club and Natalino’s Pizza in Crescent Beach.

Winter Ice Palace

December 14 – January 5 | Cloverdale Arena | 6090 176 Street

The Cloverdale Arena transforms into a winter wonderland for three weeks of festive skating. With the rink surrounded by lights, trees and decorations, and all your favourite Christmas songs playing, this fun family skate is sure to get you into the holiday spirit in no time.