Winter in the City: Port Coquitlam’s Holiday Celebration

Winter in the City is Port Coquitlam’s signature holiday series of events. It includes a tree lighting event, Christmas market, light parade and train concert.

Winter in the City transforms the community into a festive wonderland with sparkling lights, seasonal activities and family-friendly entertainment. From joyful holiday markets to a glowing parade, decorating contest, holiday skates and special appearances by Santa, the city comes alive each winter with experiences designed for all ages.

This seasonal celebration encourages residents and visitors to enjoy local festivities while creating cherished holiday memories with family and friends.

For more information about the event, check out the City of Port Coquitlam‘s website.

A Community Holiday Tradition

Winter in the City is more than a series of events — it’s a celebration of community, generosity, and holiday cheer. Throughout the city, both indoor and outdoor locations host engaging activities, festive decorations, and opportunities to support local charities. The festival promotes connection among neighbors, families and local businesses, helping spread the spirit of giving and togetherness across Port Coquitlam.

For full details about Winter in the City, see the portcoquitlam.ca website.

Holiday Markets and Festive Gatherings

A central feature of the festival is Christmas in the Square & Holiday Market. On or around the last Saturday of November, visitors can browse seasonal goods from local vendors, enjoy live music, and participate in family-friendly activities at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre. The event provides a lively setting for holiday shopping, photos with Santa, and gathering around the tree lighting ceremony, making it a favorite stop for locals looking to soak in seasonal cheer.

Food trucks, local cafés, and festive treats enhance the experience, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere for all ages.

To learn more about this event, click Christmas in the Square & Holiday Market.

Parades, Lights, and Special Attractions

The City of Port Coquitlam also hosts the Parade of Lights which involves a luminous procession that highlights community groups and decorated vehicles. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the parade route and continue celebrating at the local community centre both before and after with music, crafts, skating and refreshments.

Another highlight of Winter in the City is the CPKC Holiday Train. It involves pretty LED lights and decorated railcars. Visitors enjoy a live performance and are encouraged to support local food banks while experiencing the train’s joyful holiday atmosphere. Performing at the event in 2025 is the Barenaked Ladies.

For full details about Winter in the City, see the portcoquitlam.ca website.

Brighten Up PoCo: Home Light Displays

Brighten Up PoCo is a fun way for residents to get involved in the festivities. This annual initiative encourages locals to decorate their homes with holiday lights and creative displays, turning neighborhoods into sparkling winter streetscapes. Participants can submit photos of their decorated homes for recognition and prizes, helping spread cheer throughout the community and fostering a sense of pride and joy.

Participants can enter to win prizes by taking a photo of their place and submitting it to the city online. Then, for each of about a dozen days in early December, one lucky person wins a gift card to use at a participating downtown business.

Experience Winter Magic in Port Coquitlam

Winter in the City offers a mix of traditional holiday activities and modern festivities. Families can enjoy music, light displays, holiday markets, and seasonal performances while exploring the city’s vibrant and beautifully-decorated public spaces. The festival highlights Port Coquitlam’s community spirit, connecting neighbors through shared celebrations and festive fun.

For more information about various Winter in the City events, visit the City of Port Coquitlam‘s website.

To learn more about the above and other events in the Port Coquitlam and Tri-Cities area on the VancouversBestPlaces.com website, check out the following:

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