This holiday, get on island time
The frenzy of the holidays is enough to make the most magical time of the year feel anything but. Here’s the trick: head to Granville Island.
See, on Granville Island, we operate on island-time 365 days a year. Which means you’ll lose track of time entirely. It’s a place where you can take a break from the holiday madness. Where life moves a bit slower—giving you a moment to relax and take it all in.
Frantically rushing from one place to the next is unheard of here. It’s like a festive oasis straight out of a made-for-TV holiday movie. Gift options for those hard-to-buy-for folks magically appear all around you. The scent of baking, fresh flowers, freshly brewed tea at Granville Island Tea Co and a whiff of ocean air as a door opens transport you straight into warm-and-fuzzy land. And wait—what’s that sound? Well, it’s the sweet hum of live holiday music from street performers.
Start your day on Granville Island whenever you please (you’re on vacation, remember?), and grab a bite from one of this year’s pop-up vendors serving holiday goodies. Bubble Bombs, Luv The Grub and Maison Côte are just of the few who will be tempting you with their wares in the Net Loft and Public Market. Take your time walking around the island. Soak in the laid-back atmosphere, the views, and the magic that this time of the year brings.
As you take the scenic route around the island, don’t forget to pop into shops filled with locally-made goods. Granville Island is home to fifty artists’ studios, so if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special—this is the place.
The market is full of goodies this time of the year, too. Peruse the beautiful pastries and produce only available this time of the year, and maybe pick something up to bring to your next holiday dinner. After you’ve made your way through the market, end your day at the island on a high note. Unwind to some live music in the Public Market courtyard, and be dazzled by the festive atmosphere all around you.
Make sure to extend your day at Granville Island past sunset. The island completely transforms with twinkling holiday lights, creating the perfect atmosphere for a festive walk. Take in the giant shining star in the Public Market courtyard as it changes colour, the jewel tones peppered along Railspur Alley, and canopies of lights and decorated trees that give the whole island a warm holiday glow before heading into one of the many restaurants and bars, or a theatre performance.
This season, spend an hour or four, and enjoy all the activities and festivities that make island life unique. There’s no better way to feel the magic of the season.
Visit granvilleisland.com to plan your visit today.