The holidays are coming people. Whether you’re visiting friends and family or need somewhere to hide out until the season comes to a close, the Sunshine Coast has got it going on…

Fri, Nov 30th until The Snow Melts | Tobogganing, x-country skiing & snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge
Bring your 4×4 and chains and haul your way up the hill to the winter wonderland that is Dakota Ridge. Tons of trails to chose from for the very active and passive winter lovers alike.

Sat, Dec 1st | Festival of Lights in Sechelt
Imagine every heavy duty work truck and vehicle possible all decked out in Christmas lights. Now throw in Santa and the odd 10′ tall light-up robot and you’ve got The Festival of Lights Parade in downtown Sechelt. Bundle up and head on down for treats, carols and, of course, the main event at 5:45pm.

Sun, Dec 2nd – Tue, Dec 18th | Winter Lights at the Botanical Gardens
Stroll the Christmas wonderland, cozy up with a warm drink and roast marshmallows at the campfire. Admission is by donation. Open Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays from 4:30pm to 7:30pm.

Sat, Dec 8th | 10AM – 6PM | Holiday Maker Faire
Give Coastal by hitting up the Holiday Maker Faire at the Gibsons Public Market, featuring local craftspeople and tons of homemade treats. Bonus: Get your hands on some advance 2019 Beer Fest tickets from Persephone Brewing for the beer lover on your list. These babies sell out quickly! Gibsons Tapworks and The Bricker Cider Company will also be on hand with tons of sweet merch.

Sat, Dec 15th – Tue, Dec 18th | The Nutcracker at the Raven’s Cry Theatre
A Christmas classic in its 7th year at the Raven’s Cry! Start the wonderful tradition with your family and watch those sugarplums twirl.

Dec 1st – 31st | Host a holiday Bonspiel at the Gibsons Curling Club
Surprisingly fun and alarmingly addictive, curling is in our collective Canadian conscience. Grab some of your most enthusiastic friends and rent a sheet (think ice covered bowling lane) or just bring a few pals and watch the experts from the comfort and splendour of the 2nd floor (licensed) lounge. Skal!

Tue, Jan 1st | Polar Bear Swim at Davis Bay
We’re cheating here who cares? Come cheer on the folks who lost a bet the night before or get in there and shake off that hangover yourself. You’ll feel like a superhero the rest of the day and people are obligated to buy you hot toddies afterward (for safety).