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 | Outdoor Skating Rink
November 21 & 22 | Surrey Civic Plaza | Skating Rink Open Until Feb 15, 2027
Kick off the holidays in Surrey at the annual Surrey Tree Lighting Festival! This free, family event sparkles with light displays, live performances, a festive Holiday Market, amusement rides, and an outdoor rink offering free skating.
Noel Surrey with the Magic of Bright Nights
November 27 - December 29 | 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 the Bright Nights light walk, shop the Christmas Market, discover magical photo spots, and enjoy holiday treats snuggled around the fire pits. This immersive experience offers a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit and create cherished memories.
WinterFest
November 21 – December 20 | Museum of Surrey, 17710 56a Avenue
Step into the magic of WinterFest at the Museum of Surrey! Filled with holiday cheer, this family-friendly celebration features dazzling displays, hands-on crafts, and festive activities for all ages. Wander through the sparkling Christmas Tree Fest, take part in fun scavenger hunts, and get creative with Merry Makers crafts. Be sure to visit on December 5 for the stɑl'əw̓ Craft Fair, where you can shop local and support talented Indigenous vendors.
November 1 - 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
November 29 | 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 5:30 pm precisely at the corner of 176A St and 60th Avenue and heads east to 177B Street.
Gingerbread Village
November 28 - December 7 | 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 behind each unique gingerbread masterpiece. With more than 20 intricate houses to explore, you’ll want to admire every delicious detail — and don’t forget to cast your vote for your favourite 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 in-person. 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 5 | Elgin Heritage Park
Step inside the rustically decorated farmhouse with the aroma of gingerbread throughout. Enjoy live harp music with Leanne Page in the parlour as you snack on woodstove baked treats. Make a homemade lantern and then venture outside to snap a photo with Father Christmas in the pole barn. A perfect local Christmas activity for the whole family.
December 12 – January 3 | 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. Note: Participants can register for skating sessions starting 72 hours in advance and no later than one hour before the session, with sign-up required to guarantee entry.