On a quiet beach in West Vancouver, a dazzling sight appears after dusk each night when hundreds of Christmas Trees are lit up in the “Forest of Miracles” on display as part of the annual Dundarave Festival of Lights.
This family-friendly display is the largest outdoor display of Christmas trees in coastal BC. Each of the trees are sponsored, lit, and decorated by community groups, businesses, schools, churches and families in order to raise funds to alleviate homelessness on the North Shore.
The trees are free and displayed for everyone to enjoy 24/7 until December 31, 2017.
The Forest of Miracles is part of the Dundarave Festival, billed as the ‘ultimate Canadian Christmas’ celebration. Each weekend in December hosts free concerts and more as part of the celebration.
The events culminate in the Christmas Wassail & Bonfire on Saturday, December 23, 2017.
From the first Christmas in West Vancouver to this season of the Dundarave Festival of Lights, bonfires have burned bright on our beaches to ward off the longest nights of the year and gather together our community in a spirit of friendship. These fires have deepened our sense of belonging, celebrating the life of our community as we face the winter together in this place of exceptional beauty.
This night, crowned by a bonfire presented as it has for generations by the District of West Vancouver, is the ultimate night in the Festival’s season. We turn our faces together to the sunset, knowing that darkness will not have the last word even as the nights grow longest because loving friendship endures; we stand together at Dundarave Beach to make sure no one is left out and alone in the cold.
This is the moment to bring with you everyone you love for a loving Christmas that starts here, deep in a forest of trees shining, festive and bright on Dundarave Beach.
Since 2008, the festival and the Forest of Miracles has raised over a third of a million dollars in charitable donations to the Lookout Society’s North Shore Shelter.
The Dundarave Festival of Lights takes pride of place in West Vancouver at both Dundarave Village and Dundarave Beach. You can get there easily from Downtown Vancouver by bus, or bike, kayak, or car. After taking a walk through the Forest of Miracles, make sure to spend some time strolling the spectacular sea walk, for a great view of Vancouver and the Lions Gate Bridge.
Dundarave Festival of Lights
When: On until December 31, 2017
Where: Dundarave Park – West Vancouver
Cost: Free