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.
Christmas Markets
Vancouver comes alive with festive charm during the holiday season, offering an array of local markets. From the Vancouver Farmer Market's winter edition showcasing seasonal produce and unique handcrafted goods to the Kids Holiday Market, where young entrepreneurs aged 5 to 15 display their creative wares, there's something for everyone. Explore the historic Slocum House's Holiday Pop-Ups, or indulge in the Downtown Camas Association's Holiday Sip & Shop event. Discover Pop-Local on the waterfront, a retail haven for local makers and brands. Find a selection of holiday decor and gifts at Christmas in Vantucky, or experience the charm of Christmas at the Farm at Pomeroy Living History Farm. Don't miss the Holiday Makers Market by Mosaic Arts Alliance, where you'll find plenty of unique art gifts by local artists! Local boutiques like The French Door, Persnickety, and Most Everything Vintage also offer a variety of festive items to buy. Head to our shopping page for a full list of businesses.
Holiday Things to Do with Kids
Experience the holiday magic around Vancouver, perfect for family enjoyment. Witness the dazzling tree lighting at Esther Short Park, kick off Thanksgiving with the Turkey Trot along Salmon Creek Trail, or dare to take a Polar Bear Plunge in Klineline Pond. Embark on a scenic adventure with Santa aboard the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad's Santa Train. December brings the time-honored tradition of the Christmas Ships Parade along the Columbia River. Find your ideal Christmas tree at Klopman U-Cut Christmas Tree Farm, and don't miss the Lighted Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting in Washougal or the enchanting 150,000 Christmas lights at Holidays on Franklin. Explore Candy Cane Lane in Ridgefield, the festive streets of Downtown Camas, and the holiday celebrations in Ridgefield and Washougal, where hometown trees and lights transform Clark County into a winter wonderland of joy.
Christmas Concerts and Shows
Discover a delightful array of Christmas concerts and shows in Vancouver this season. Enjoy classic holiday movies at Kiggins Theatre, including 'Elf,' 'The Muppets Christmas Carol,' and 'White Christmas.' Dive into the magic of The Nutcracker with performances by the Friends of DanceWorks and Columbia Dance. The Nutcracker, Inspired by Fort Vancouver, offers a whimsical, Pacific Northwest-infused twist. For beautiful seasonal instrumentals, don't miss the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra's Back to the Movies Series or the classic sounds of the Vancouver Master Chorale. The Providence Academy Ballroom hosts the Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra every First Friday. Metropolitan Performing Arts presents A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol, while Magenta Theater presents The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley. Don't forget to catch the enchanting Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland at ilani Casino, a magical journey that's sure to kindle the holiday spirit.
Santa Pictures and Sightings
Get ready to spot Santa throughout Vancouver this holiday season. Join the festive photo op with Santa at the Vancouver Mall. Keep an eye out for Santa's usual appearances at The Marshall House for a special holiday experience (and enjoy some Holiday Tea)! Support the community during the Santa's Posse 5K Walk/Run, benefiting families in Clark County. For a family-friendly outing, head to the Garden Center for Reindeer Magic with live reindeer, Santa, local food, face painting, and live music. Santa also visits the Vancouver Farmers Market at the Slocum House and the Kids Holiday Market. If you're 21 or older, SantaCon returns to Main Event Sports Grill in downtown Vancouver – don your full Santa attire and bring donations of socks and underwear for a local charity while joining this unique holiday gathering.
Holiday Hotel Deals
Experience the magic of the holidays with exclusive hotel deals in Vancouver, WA! The Hilton Vancouver offers Holiday Suites, including hot cocoa for four, plush robes, and complimentary parking. Choose between the cozy Holidays in the Park – Executive Suite with a scenic patio or the Winter Wonderland – Presidential Suite on the top floor for enchanting views of the Esther Short Park Community Tree. Limited availability—book via phone during traditional Monday-Friday business hours at 360-828-4320 or email PDXVA.Reservation@Hilton.com and ask for package P2. Additionally, a portion of proceeds benefits the Clark County Food Bank. Down on the Waterfront Hotel Indigo presents a Christmas Ships package for December 4th, 6th, and 16th—book now on their website to view the festive cruise along the Columbia River. Celebrate the season with us in Vancouver and create unforgettable memories!