Britannia Mine Museum at Christmas
Formerly one of the largest copper mines in the world, the Britannia Mine Museum in Squamish hosts special activities in the Christmas season.
In past years there has been Photos with Santa where, for a fee, visitors could get their photos taken with Santa. They also received a free cookie and hot chocolate, and were granted access the lower level of the museum. New for 2025, to celebrate the museum’s 50th anniversary, the Christmas event is very similar, but with a new name and free admission. Plus, you take your own photos on your own phone, so there’s no professional photographer.
In 2025, Toys Thru the Decades at Britannia Mine Museum is a festive holiday experience that brings seasonal cheer to one of British Columbia’s most iconic historic attractions. Held during the Christmas season, this family-friendly event combines vintage toy displays, holiday décor, and a chance to meet Santa Claus in a unique heritage setting.
Toys Thru the Decades puts a nostalgic spin on the holidays, inviting visitors to explore toys from different generations while enjoying the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the museum.
Visit Britannia Mine‘s website for details about the museum and its events. For details about the Christmas event specifically, continue reading below or see the VancouversBestPlaces.com website.
Where is Britannia Mine Museum?
Britannia Mine Museum is located in Britannia Beach, along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway between Vancouver and Squamish. The site is well known for its dramatic mountain backdrop and rich mining history, making it a memorable destination year-round. The museum’s address is 150 Copper Drive in Britannia Beach.
Holiday activities typically take place in the museum’s historic Machine Shop building, which is close to other popular features such as the gold panning area.
A Holiday Tradition at a Historic Site
Each December, one of Britannia Mine Museum’s historic buildings transforms into a Christmas-themed venue. There are holiday decorations, glowing trees, and festive displays. This is where families can enjoy holiday photo opportunities with Santa and take in the seasonal setup.
For the 2025 edition of the event, visitors are encouraged to capture their own photos using personal devices. This makes the experience more relaxed, casual, and perfect for families who prefer candid holiday memories. In past years a professional photographer took the photos, and for this reason there was an admission fee. Whether the photos will be professional or do-it-yourself in 2026 is to be determined.
Vintage Toys and Seasonal Displays
A highlight of the Toys Thru the Decades event in 2025 is the collection of classic toys on display. These exhibits showcase how playtime has evolved over the years, sparking nostalgia for adults and curiosity for younger visitors. Decades highlighted in the displays include the 1970s to 2020s, representing the 50-year life of the museum.
The toy displays are paired with festive décor throughout the space. Overall, it’s a cozy and cheerful environment that feels distinctly Christmas-themed without overwhelming the museum’s historic character.
What’s Included in the Experience
During the holiday event, guests can enjoy access to select museum areas, including lower-level exhibits that highlight Britannia’s industrial past. Seasonal treats are also part of the experience, adding to the festive atmosphere while visitors explore. Guests can get a complimentary cookie and cup of hot chocolate.
While the full museum experience extends beyond the holiday event, Toys Thru the Decades offers a focused and approachable way to enjoy Britannia Mine Museum during the Christmas season.
Note: The free admission to Toys Thru the Decades doesn’t include access to the upper levels of the museum, including the underground mine tour or BOOM show. To enjoy these elements, you have to pay for regular admission.
Why Visit During the Holidays
Visiting Britannia Mine Museum at Christmas offers a different perspective on the attraction. The festive décor, vintage toy exhibits, and Santa meet-and-greet create a seasonal experience that blends history with holiday tradition. To celebrate the museum’s 50th birthday, admission to Toys Thru the Decades in 2025 is also free.
A trip to the Britannia Mine Museum makes for an especially appealing outing for families looking for a Christmas activity that’s interactive, meaningful, educational and rooted in local heritage.
Other Information
For more information about the museum, visit the official Britannia Mine Museum website. To learn more about the attraction at Christmas, see the article about Photos With Santa on the website VancouversBestPlaces.com.
Another holiday attraction in the Sea to Sky region during the holiday season is the North Pole Express at the Railway Museum of BC.