Vancouver’s Wesbrook Village Holiday Market at UBC in 2025

The Wesbrook Village Holiday Market is one of UBC’s most festive new winter traditions. It celebrates its second year with a lively mix of artisan vendors, handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and holiday cheer. Held outdoors in Norman MacKenzie Square, the market brings together local makers and the UBC community for a cozy, family-friendly seasonal experience.

Running from late November to late December, it’s a go-to holiday stop for anyone looking to shop local, enjoy warm drinks and celebrate the season on campus.

To learn more about the event, visit liveatubc.ca.

Click Wesbrook Village Holiday Market for the event’s official website.

Wesbrook Village Holiday Market

The holiday spirit is back at UBC as the Wesbrook Village Holiday Market returns for its second annual season. Local artisans, festive lights, live entertainment, and warm holiday treats transform Norman MacKenzie Square into a cheerful winter marketplace. Visitors can browse handcrafted goods, sip hot chocolate from Blenz or Doughgirls, and enjoy a cozy, community-focused holiday outing. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique gift or a little treat for yourself.

2025 Market Dates, Hours & Live Music Schedule

In 2025 the Wesbrook Village Holiday Market runs from November 28th to December 21st, offering a festive lineup every weekend:

Fridays: 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm (with live music from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
Saturdays & Sundays: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm (with live music from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm)

Whether you stop by during the day or after sundown, you’ll find a warm and lively atmosphere complete with seasonal entertainment.

Tree Lighting Ceremony to Kick Off the Festivities

In 2025 the celebrations begin with a special Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 28th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The large tree in Norman MacKenzie Square is illuminated for the season at 6:30 pm sharp, so guests are encouraged to arrive early, grab a hot chocolate or apple cider, and secure a great viewing spot.

At the event families can also participate in a fun tradition. Children have the chance to name the holiday tree and officially turn on the lights by entering a contest before November 14th.

Click Wesbrook Village Holiday Market for the event’s official website.

Where is the Wesbrook Village Holiday Market

The market takes place in Norman MacKenzie Square, the central gathering spot in Wesbrook Village, located just south of UBC’s main campus. The venue’s address is 3378 Wesbrook Mall. The open-air setting makes it easy to walk, shop, snack, and enjoy the holiday ambience surrounded by the village’s shops and eateries.

What You’ll Find at the Holiday Market

Guests can explore a rotating selection of local artisan vendors showcasing handmade gifts, art, crafts and seasonal specialties. The market features plenty of cozy bites and warm beverages from nearby restaurants and cafés, helping visitors stay toasty while they browse. With festive décor, glowing lights and live performances filling the square, the event offers a charming, community-minded holiday experience for all ages.

Click Wesbrook Village Holiday Market for the event’s official website.

Bring Your Holiday Spirit (and a Reusable Bag!)

Visitors are encouraged to bring a reusable shopping bag for all their market finds, along with plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you’re browsing for gifts, meeting friends, enjoying warm drinks or taking in the glowing lights, the Wesbrook Village Holiday Market is a festive and welcoming way to celebrate the season.

Tips for Visiting Wesbrook Village

Entry to the Wesbrook Village Holiday Market is free, making it an accessible seasonal event for families, students and holiday shoppers.

Parking options include free street parking for one to two hours depending on where you park, and the underground parkade with two free hours. There is also the surface lot outside Save-On-Foods, and additional nearby options such as University Hill Secondary (after school hours), 16th Avenue street parking, and campus lots.

Other Information

The Wesbrook Village Holiday Market at UBC is a festive winter event that brings holiday charm to the heart of the UBC campus. Whether you’re browsing artisan vendors, enjoying seasonal treats, listening to live music, or simply exploring this vibrant campus community, the market offers a warm and cheerful holiday experience for all ages.

For more details and the latest updates, visit the Wesbrook Village Holiday Market website.

To learn about other events with artisan vendors, see our article about Lower Mainland Holiday Markets. In it you’ll find information about the Vancouver Christmas Market, Shipyards Christmas Market, and various holiday craft fairs.

Articles and information on other websites you might also find of interest include the following: