Light up the holidays

Vancouver rain has nothing on the dazzling array of light displays that illuminate the city at this time of year. Head to Granville Island between November 12 and January 3 to pick up a few artisan gifts or some amazing fare for your festive table. At the same time, take in the cornucopia of shimmering baubles and garlands that create a canopy of lights across the island’s 40 acres. Best of all, parking is free from 6 pm onwards. You can also ride the Bright Nights Train in Stanley Park, which, after a few years hiatus, is chugging the rails amidst thousands of lights and incredible holiday displays. The brilliant extravaganza is made possible by local firefighters in support of the BC Professional Firefighter’s Burn Fund. Bright Nights runs until January 1. Food and beverage vendors are on site if you want to warm up or grab a snack. Finally, no tour of Vancouver’s best light displays is complete without a visit to VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights, on until January 7, or a walk through the glittering forest of the Canyon Lights display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, on until January 21.