Magic of Gastown

This month, Gastown is transforming into a holiday wonderland, inviting guests to experience The Magic of Gastown—a neighbourhood-wide holiday celebration filled with festive entertainment, nostalgic traditions, immersive experiences and creative displays from local businesses. Throughout the neighbourhood, visitors will encounter roaming carolers, neighbourhood elves, boutique holiday shopping, and twinkling lights set against Gastown’s historic cobblestones. Additionally, free horse-drawn carriage rides return on December 14 and 21, reviving a beloved tradition that began in Gastown in the 1980s. Holiday Highlights in Gastown: Elf off the Shelf–Neighbourhood-Wide Contest: A rotating cast of Gastown elves will pop up in shops and restaurants daily from December 10-14. Visitors can follow clues on the @mygastown Instagram account and enter to win weekly prizes. Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides (Dec 14 & 21, 12pm–5pm): A Gastown tradition returns, offering visitors a nostalgic ride through the neighbourhood. Carolers & Holiday Entertainment (First 3 Sundays of December): Roaming carolers and festive performers will bring classic holiday sounds to streets and storefronts. Free Parking on Sundays: December visitors can enjoy stress-free parking at Easy Park – Lot 126 when shopping and dining at their favourite Gastown spots. Marching Mariachi Band (Dec 11, 6pm–8pm) A beloved Gastown tradition returns as Mariachi Los Dorados and traditional dancers parade through Canada’s first Mexico Barrio, accompanied by margarita specials and festive surprises along the way. Gastown Tree Walk: Local businesses will display their own uniquely decorated holiday trees, turning Gastown into a charming, walkable forest of festive creativity. Holiday Lighting: Festive lights will illuminate the neighbourhood.