Here’s a list of what’s open, closed or operating on a holiday schedule for Christmas and Boxing Day 2024 in Vancouver.
Christmas is here. If you need a break from the hectic family gathering or just need to venture out of the house for a last-minute gift, here’s a handy guide.
Read on for a roundup of what’s open, what’s closed, and what’s operating on shortened holiday hours on and around Dec. 25 and Dec. 264 in Metro Vancouver.
Which days are statutory holidays?
In Canada, Christmas Day, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, are statutory holidays, with most employers either giving workers the day off or paying overtime to those who have to work. Boxing Day is a stat in some parts of the country, but not in B.C.
Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, is not a holiday either, but some businesses either close or shorten their operating hours that day.
Christmas Day falls on a Wednesday this year, so it’s likely many people will end up working split weeks. That is, unless you work in retail, restaurant or entertainment and will be working through he holidays. (Thank you!)
Shopping
Most grocery stores close on Christmas Day, but are open on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. Save-On-Foods locations, for instance, closes at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. Other grocers, such as Safeway and Whole Foods, are also closed on Christmas Day. If you have a milk emergency, some convenience stores such as 7-Eleven will be open Christmas Day.
Museums and attractions
Food and drink
Most restaurants and cafés close on Christmas Day, but fast-food stores such as Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Tim Hortons usually open on Christmas Day.
Starbucks store hours will vary by locations and stores may adjust their hours based on business and customer needs, said the company. Customers craving their peppermint mocha fix can check out Starbucks’ store locator for updated hours.
Recreation
If you’re looking for a swim on Dec. 25, the Hillcrest pool, the Killarney pool, and Vancouver Aquatic Centre are open with reduced hours.
City-run rinks at Kerrisdale and Trout Lake community centres are also open Christmas Day, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
City-owned golf courses are closed Dec. 23 through Jan. 12.