Top 2026 Holiday & Christmas Activities

Milner Christmas Magic

Dates: December 3-6, 10-13, and 17-20, 2026
Time: 5:30-8:30pm
Location: Milner Gardens & Woodland | 2179 West Island Highway | Qualicum Beach

Step into a winter wonderland as Milner Gardens transforms into a glowing forest of lights. Wander along garden paths lined with colourful displays, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy the peaceful charm of this annual tradition. Shuttle service is available on select nights.

Christmas Night Market

Date: Friday, December 4, 2026
Time: 4-8:30pm
Location: Corner of Memorial Avenue and Veterans Way | 644 Veterans Way Avenue | Qualicum Beach

The Magic of Christmas comes alive under twinkling lights at the 4th Annual Christmas Night Market. Browse handmade gifts from Vancouver Island vendors, enjoy hot cocoa and festive treats, and snap a photo with Santa. Outdoor heaters and live music make it the perfect way to kick off the season.

Coombs Christmas Market

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026
Time: 10am-3pm
Location: Coombs Fairgrounds and Event Centre | 1014 Ford Rd | Coombs

Over 60 local artists and crafters are featured at this market, along with delicious food, local goodies, and festive fun. Enjoy a Hallmark-movie-inspired atmosphere throughout the grounds.

Christmas Artisan Market

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026
Time: 10am-3pm
Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre | 747 Jones Street | Qualicum Beach

Enjoy shopping for Christmas presents from talented local vendors selling unique, handmade creations. Donations to the local food bank will also be accepted, so you can give back and find gifts all in the same afternoon.

Echo Players Presents: A Winter Wager

Dates: Select dates, December 10–27, 2026
Location: Village Theatre | 110 W 2nd Ave | Qualicum Beach

In this adaptation of a modern fairy tale, adults and children alike will find themselves immersed in its telling through music, movement, and more. A Winter Wager will take you on a lively journey, perhaps even to the land of... Happily Ever After.

Artisan Christmas Market

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026
Time: 10am-3pm
Location: Nanoose Place Community Centre | 2925 Northwest Bay Road | Nanoose Bay

Mid Island Artisans are passionate about supporting local artisans and the art of creating unique handcrafted items. Their talented artisans pour their heart and soul into each piece, ensuring that every item is distinctive and of the highest quality. Get your Christmas shopping finished all in one place at this market.

The Market That Sleighs

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026
Time: 10am-3pm
Location: Jensen Centre | 132 Jensen Ave E | Parksville

This Two Chicks and a Llama Artisan Market features local makers, food vendors, and even “Kid Entrepreneurs” showcasing their own handmade creations. Bring your holiday list and shop local this season.

Happy Noon Year

Date: December 31, 2026
Time: 10:30am-12:30pm
Location: Memorial Plaza | Parksville

Kids dress up in your sparkly party clothes, grab your parents, and join the Parksville Downtown Business Association at Memorial Plaza for your own special version of a New Year's celebration.

More Ideas for a Holiday Season Fun

• Polar Bear Splash: Kick off 2027 with a chilly dip in the ocean.
• Sea Lion Spotting: Keep an eye out for visiting California and Steller sea lions feeding along the coast.
• Winter Hikes: Enjoy peaceful trails at Little Qualicum Falls, Cathedral Grove, or the Heritage Forest.
• Qualicum Beach Museum: Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday afternoons through winter, this is a great indoor stop for history lovers.
• Shop for Gifts: Find unique, handmade gifts at local boutiques and craft fairs this holiday season.
• Listen to Live Music: Watch live performances by local artists at a variety of venues around the region, with special holiday music events happening all season long.
• Take a Class: Explore your creativity with pottery classes, including special holiday-themed sessions perfect for making one-of-a-kind gifts.