This is the perfect season for romantic dates, whether with someone new or your long-time partner. The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy yourselves—there are plenty of budget-friendly date activities to explore in and around Metro Vancouver.

Holiday Date Ideas For Under $20

So don’t let the holidays pass you by without making time for that special someone in your life.

From light displays and carousel rides to holiday movies and ice skating – these are the best holiday date ideas for under $20.

Jump on a Ferris Wheel in the heart of Downtown Vancouver

This holiday season, downtown Vancouver is getting a magical upgrade with the addition of a Ferris wheel! Located beside the breathtaking 76-foot-tall Christmas tree in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Ferris wheel is surrounded by a variety of other seasonal attractions. It offers riders a bird’s-eye view of the city’s twinkling holiday lights.

After that, you can take a short stroll to Coal Harbour, where you’ll find a series of breathtaking light installations.

When & Where: December 1-26 (closed Mondays), infront of the Vancouver Art Gallery
Cost: $7/person

Go Ice Skating Outdoors

Couples holding hands at the skating rink is a Christmas staple, and Vancouver has at least two marvelous options available. Both of these venues have an amazing backdrop of the city or the water, with tons of beautiful lights and eats nearby to make it a beautiful evening.

• Robson Square Ice Rink: November 29 – February 28, 2025 from various times at Robson Square Ice Rink, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver
• Ice Skating at North Vancouver’s Shipyards Rink: November 30 – End of February, 2025, from various times at The Shipyards, 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver

Cost: Entry admission; Skate rentals range from $5-$7

Attend a Tree Lighting or Free Holiday Festival

Attending a tree lighting event makes for a magical date activity filled with festive charm and joyful energy. The air buzzes with holiday cheer as you enjoy fun activities together, take in live performances, and sip on seasonal treats.

The countdown to the grand lighting moment creates an unforgettable experience, capped off by the breathtaking sight of the tree glowing against the night sky. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and make cherished memories.

Every city has their own unique tree lighting or Holiday celebration, here are two of our favourites

• Surrey Tree Lighting Festival: Nov 23 – 24 at Surrey Civic Plaza
• Vancouver Tree Lighting: Nov 29, at the Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby Street

Taking a long walk through some beautiful lights is always an excellent date idea, and there are a number of FREE events and light displays to check out this holiday season. You can check out our complete guide here.

Below are the most romantic spots. Pair this up with a cup of hot chocolate and you got yourself a cozy night out.

• Lights at Lafarge: November 22 – February 2025 at Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam
• White Rock Bright Walk:  December 7- January 12 at the White Rock Pier
• Williams Park Christmas Lights Display Drive Thru: December 9-29 at Williams Park, 8 Ave & 238 Street, Langley Twp

Cost: Free admission

Take a stroll through Stanley Park 

Don’t be discouraged by the fact the Stanley Park Holiday train is sold out – there’s plenty of lovely activities at one of Vancouver’s favourite traditions. Hold hands and become enthralled by the sparkling illuminations, iconic fire truck, giant red reindeer, and tunnel of lights of Stanley Park Bright Nights.

When & Where: November 29 – January 4 from 4-10pm at Stanley Park
Cost: By Donation

Ride the carousel at the Burnaby Village Museum

Feel like you’ve been transported back in time, as Burnaby Village Museum’s annual event completely transforms the heritage town into a Winter Wonderland with twinkling lights and holiday spirit. Hot tip – the carousel rides are only $2.52. There are also a number of other activities you can participate in, such as taking in amazing light displays.

When & Where: November 25 to January 5, 2024 at the Burnaby Village Museum, Burnaby
Cost: Entry is Free, Carousel rides are only $2.62 /ride

Starting November 21, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will be making its way through Canada featuring delightful and free musical performances.

There will be 4 stops in Metro Vancouver this this December, with each show spanning about 30 minutes. It’s a extremely unique and fun way to spend an evening. Just remember to pack some hot chocolate and warm treats.

When & Where: December 19 and 20 at various locations
Cost: Free

Check Out a Holiday Market

Stumped about what to get your loved one? Look no further than Metro Vancouver’s many festive villages and Christmas markets.

Let your heart become merry and bright through the twinkling lights and dazzling sights of these amazing local holiday markets. There’s something for everyone, from the new Christmas Market in North Vancouver to the traditional Swedish Christmas Market, or the incredibly unique Weirdos Holiday Market.

The popular Vancouver Christmas Market also offers special $5 on specific dates.

When & Where: Various locations and dates
Cost: Admission ranges from Free to $22 /person depending on venue

Catch a Christmas Movie 

Perfect for any couples who are young at heart or in a nostalgic mood, Cineplex offers cheap movies at 11 o’clock on Saturday mornings for only $3.99 +tax. December’s lineup includes holiday favourites such as The Polar Express, Elf, and more

You can check out their website for the most up-to-date details.

Where & When: Saturdays from 11am at participating cinemas
Cost: $3.99 /person

Warm up in one of Vancouver’s many cozy coffee shops. Sipping on a hot beverage while engaging in conversation can be both intimate and budget-friendly. Many shops also have a special hot chocolate menu, special to the holiday season. This is a perfect chance to enjoy a treat either indoors, or take a walk outdoors under some beautiful lights.

Walk around Granville Island & Go on a boat ride

Stroll through the market’s lively atmosphere, where you can browse a variety of unique artisan stalls and pick up affordable holiday treats like warm pastries, roasted nuts, or festive drinks. Take your time to admire the beautifully decorated spaces, twinkling lights, and charming seasonal displays that make the experience truly magical.

You can also hop on the False Creek Ferries for a beautiful view from the water. They have multiple pick up/drop off locations in Downtown. Their Granville island trip fair is only $3, with round trip being $5 per person.

When & Where: Granville Island
Cost: Varies

Go Sledding on Seymour Mountain

Play in the snow and enjoy the excitement of tubing or tobogganing with your date! Bring your own toboggan or purchase a sliding mat from Mt. Seymour. Thrills, laughs and romance are guaranteed. Exact dates are TBA, but they are usually open mid November until January.

When & Where: From mid November – January, Mount Seymour, 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver, BC

Cost: $10 – $15 /person

Source: 604NOW