Maple Ridge, B.C., Nov 15, 2024 – Maple Ridge is getting ready to officially kick off the holidays with festive fun for all, including Winter Fest, Christmas in the Park, the 21st annual Santa Claus Parade, CPKC Holiday Train and new this year - a ‘Share the Magic’ Holiday Photo Contest.
Holiday Fun Kicks Off Saturday, Dec. 7
On Dec. 7, Memorial Peace Park will transform into a winter wonderland with the much-anticipated return of Winter Fest from 4 to 8 p.m. Downtown Maple Ridge will come alive with sparkling holiday lights and iconic red bells, setting the perfect scene for seasonal cheer.
“The holiday season is a special time in Maple Ridge, and I want to thank the event organizers and all our partners for their incredible work in bringing these celebrations to life,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “These events are a great way to wrap up a wonderful year of celebrations for our City’s 150th. I encourage everyone to join in the festivities and create lasting memories with family, friends, and neighbours. If you snap the moment, share the magic with us and enter our photo contest.”
Here’s What’s Planned for December in Maple Ridge:
Winterfest (Dec. 7, 4-8 p.m.)
This free, family-friendly event features a variety of activities in downtown Maple Ridge, including Christmas in the Park, the Santa Claus Parade, seasonal crafts, and a Christmas market. Hosted by Maple Ridge Christmas Festival Society, the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association and ACT Arts Centre.
- Christmas in the Park – Located in Memorial Peace Park, enjoy a tree lighting ceremony, family activities, live music, and photo ops with Santa and the Grinch. Donations for Friends in Need Food Bank and the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Christmas Hamper Society are welcome.
- Christmas Market – Shop for unique gifts, handcrafted items, and festive treats from local artisans and businesses.
- Santa Claus Parade – The 21st annual parade will light up the streets from 6-7:30 p.m., with festive floats, decorations, and a visit from Santa. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show!
The Nutcracker (Dec. 14 and 15, 3 p.m., ACT Arts Centre)
Experience the holiday classic performed by Ballet Victoria on the ACT Mainstage Theatre.
New This Year: ‘Share the Magic’ Holiday Photo Contest
Residents can capture and share their holiday spirit by participating in the ‘Share the Magic’ Holiday Photo Contest. Starting Dec. 1, residents can submit photos at Engage.MapleRidge.ca/ShareTheMagic, and vote for their favourite photos with $1200 in gift cards and prizes on the line! The top 12 photos will win $50 in downtown business gift cards and City swag valued at $50. Winners will be announced on Jan. 6 and photos will be shared on City’s social media channels.
CPKC Holiday Train Rolls into Town: Thursday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m.
The CPKC Holiday Train rolls into the Port Haney West Coast Express Station at 7:45 p.m., bringing free live performances by Magic! and Sofia Camara at 8:00 p.m. Walk down 224 Street to enjoy this magical event and bring a donation for the event host, Friends in Need Food Bank.
Stay Active Over the Holidays
- Winter Wonderland Skating (Dec. 22, 5:15-8:00 p.m., Planet Ice) – Skate in a decorated rink at Planet Ice for a magical skating experience! Please note helmet and rentals are not included. Visit MapleRidge.ca/Skating for a list of other offerings during the winter break.
- Winter Break Swim – Relax at the pool, enjoy the waterslide, or warm up in the hot tub. Extended hours during Winter Break make it easy to dive into holiday fun. Visit MapleRidge.ca/Dropin for schedule details.
For more information on all Maple Ridge holiday events, visit MapleRidge.ca/Holidays.