Vancouver WA has a variety of events throughout November and December to put you in the holiday spirit. Enjoy twinkling holiday lights, Santa sightings, cultural celebrations, and so much more. This preview is just a selection—be sure to check events and search by dates on our Events Calendar.
Stage & Screen
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, head to Kiggins Theatre for showings of Elf, The Muppets Christmas Carol, and White Christmas. This winter, the Friends of DanceWorks nonprofit presents a traditional The Nutcracker performance, while Columbia Dance debuts a new version of the classical ballet. The Nutcracker Inspired by Fort Vancouver, invites audiences to experience a whimsical, family-friendly story steeped in Pacific Northwest history. For seasonal instrumentals, head to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s classic holiday celebration, Vancouver Master Chorale will put on their Holiday Joy Concert, and Magenta Theater's rendition of Christmas Belles starts December 2.
Gift Hunting
Search creative vendors and local artists at gift gatherings through the end of November or at locally-made shops. The Vancouver Farmers Market extends its season with special Harvest and Holiday Markets for all to enjoy. The Downtown Camas Association will host its annual Sip & Shop, complete with drink tastings, giveaways, and take-home goodies. Shop local goods at Pop-Local, a retail home for products from local makers and brands. Find a variety of holiday décor, ornaments, gifts, and more at the family-owned Christmas in Vantucky. Spend the day at Pomeroy Living History Farm for this year's Christmastime at the Farm. Offering charming photo ops and a holiday vendor market (or get creative during one of their Wreath Classes). Keep a look out for Noël Vancouver, coming Christmas of 2022. Vancouver, Washington’s first Christmas Market experience, bringing the best of the holiday tradition and nostalgia to the city.
Family Outings
Bring the family together for holiday experiences around Vancouver WA. Kick off the holiday season at the community tree lighting in Esther Short Park, and watch it come alive with thousands of lights. Prepare for Thanksgiving dinner with a Turkey Trot 5K along the Salmon Creek Trail, and take the Polar Bear Plunge in Klineline Pond if you dare. Venture aboard the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Santa Train for excursions through scenic north Clark County. Capture views of the Lewis River, cheerful Santa sightings, and warm beverages. Throughout December, gather by the waterfront, or at a riverfront restaurant, as a fleet of Christmas Ships adorned with colorful lights and wreaths cruise by on the Columbia River—a holiday favorite in Vancouver for 65 years. Adventure out for a Christmas tree hunt at the Klopman U-Cut Christmas Tree Farm. The “u-cut Christmas tree farm experience” is whatever you make it—grab a tree right by the parking lot or explore the 100 acres of trees to find the perfect one.
Santa Sightings
Where will you find Santa this season? Kick off the holiday season by celebrating the arrival of the main man himself at the Vancouver Mall with a festive photo op for the whole family including the pets! Santa can also be spotted at The Marshall House, don’t forget your camera to capture the special holiday experience. Spot multiple red suites flash by while supporting the community, during the Santa's Posse 5K Walk/Run! Funds raised go toward making a special holiday season for less fortunate families in Clark County. Bring the whole family to the Garden Center to see live reindeer, sit on Santa’s lap and get professional photos, grab a bite to eat from local vendors, and enjoy face painting and live music! For the 21+ crowd, SantaCon is back at Main Event Sports Grill in downtown Vancouver. No ugly sweaters allowed at Santacon—full Santa getup only. Can you picture the sea of red and white suits? Bring donations of socks and underwear for a local charity and enjoy the unique holiday gathering.