Christmas may be over for another year(sigh) and 2018 has kicked off, but that doesn’t mean the magic should end just yet, right?. I believe we should all strive to make every year more magical than the last. With magic in mind, let’s dive into four magical experiences you shouldn’t miss this January in Vancouver.
Van Dusen Festival of Lights

Festival of lights
My wonderful friend Yasmine from westcoastcity girl took myself, Jack and her boyfriend Mark on a double date adventure to Van Dusen festival of lights. An annual tradition for Yasmine and her family, she was kind enough to share and introduce the experience to us this year. With over one million lights illuminating the botanical gardens, you’re still in with a chance to experience the magic of Van Dusen yourself until January the 7th. Hurry!!!

Meet Yasmine
Ticket Price: Adult $18.50 if you purchase online.
Opening hours: 4.30pm-9.00pm.
The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain

Tunnel Vision
High up on Grouse Mountain, The Peak of Christmas is where the magic really happens. Twinkling tunnel lights, ice skating under the stars, snow shoeing and sledding in the most magical wonderland. I was lucky enough to spend my work Christmas party experiencing the Peak of Christmas and highly recommend you experience this mountain full of magic too. The experience is open till January 7th and you can find tickets and operation times of your favourite winter activities here.

Catching sight of Santa over Christmas
Capilano Suspension Bridge/Canyon Ligths

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Another winter lights festival but with a difference is the Capilano suspension bridge Canyon lights. The suspension bridge is the main attraction but not to be missed also, the treetop adventure and cliff walk. From now until January 23rd, the whole park is visually enhanced by many glistening white lights. Be amazed by the treetop viewing platforms suspended 110 feet above the forest floor.

Treetop adventures
Ticket prices: An annual pass costs $45.10 and you can visit as many times as you like throughout the year.
Opening hours: 11am to 9pm
Scandinave Spa at Whistler

Welcome to spa heaven
Thanks to my brother and Anita, I spent New Year’s eve rejuvenating at the Scandanivan Spa in Whistler. While I haven’t experienced too many spa days to compare to, this place is pretty damn special. Nestled amongst the mountains and snowcapped scenery, these heated baths, Finnish saunas and Eucalyptus steam baths are an amazing oasis to escape the daily grind. I honestly find it quite difficult to relax at the best of times so the Scandinavian Spa was the best place for me to kick off 2018.

Unwinding into 2018

Spa views for days

Spa life
Ticket prices: Access to the baths is $70 per person.
Opening hours: 10am to 9pm.
So if your looking to keep the magic alive this January in Vancouver, try any/all of the magical experiences above.
Are there any other magical experiences I should add to the list?
Oh and Happy New Year everyone, heres to the best 2018!!

Ready for 2018 adventures
Orla xx

Thanks for the link back, lovely! I’m glad you and Jack had a great time at VanDusen. Envious that you got to go to Scandinave – I haven’t been yet. Happy New Year!
Thank you for taking us. You and Mark should check out the spa, a nice way to relax and unwind.