Things to do in Vancouver

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Vancouver in 2025

New Year’s Eve in Vancouver offers intimate parties, events, creative venues, and dreamy night cruises.

New Year’s Eve in Vancouver feels different in the best way. The city leans into immersive parties, New Year’s eve events, scenic views, and unique ways to say goodbye to 2025 and ring in the new year.

Whether you’re into luxury ballrooms, circus-themed warehouse energy, or a yacht cruising past the skyline, Vancouver NYE 2025 has something worth dressing up forNow, let’s explore the best things to do in Vancouver on New Year’s Eve!

Top Picks for New Year’s Eve 

If you are overwhelmed by all the possibilities or are a little bit last minute for your planning this year, we got you! Here are our favorite picks you should consider:

  1. Take in the decadence while dancing at Aurum NYE 2026. 
  2. Hop onboard for a luxury New Year’s Eve boat cruise.
  3. Get seated for a special NYE menu at a top Vancouver restaurant. 
  4. Explore Granville Street for spontaneous surprises. 
  5. Take in dazzling fireworks and Cypress Mountain. 

NYE Parties in Vancouver 

NYE parties on the West Coast never disappoint. So why not round up your crew and enjoy some of the best live music and bars in Vancouver?

The Pint Public House 

The Pint Public House is a sports bar with big screens, a lively DJ, and a central downtown location. This bar is a great pick for a group of friends who want something lively but not ultra-formal. 

  • Address: 455 Abbott St., Vancouver, BC V6G 2E1 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: Tickets/themes announced annually (check venue) 
  • Age requirements: 19+ 
  • Vibe: Sports-bar meets dancefloor with big screens for games and a DJ. 
  • Pro Tip: The venue is located minutes from Stadium-Chinatown Station, and public transit always wins over trying to park in the downtown crush. 

Aurum NYE 2026 

Aurum NYE 2026 has an atmosphere that hits differently than most NYE parties in Vancouver because the room leans into design as much as music. We love this event for Vancouver NYE because it appeals to people who want a night that feels elevated without drifting into black-tie territory.

  • Address: 750 Pacific Blvd B105, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3A1 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 | 9 PM – Jan 1 at 3 AM
  • Ticket info: General Admission and VIP tiers released seasonally 
  • Age requirements: 19+ 
  • Vibe: Gold-themed, contemporary nightlife with DJs and a high-style crowd. 
  • Pro Tip: The venue’s central location makes it easy to pair with nearby waterfront viewpoints if you want to step out for skyline photos.

NYE Gala Dinner & Dance 

The NYE Gala Dinner & Dance is put on by Melo Productions. Located in the ‘Crystal Ballroom’ of the Hilton, the evening starts with a dinner prepared by the hotel’s head chef. We love this event because it bridges a formal dinner with dancing and trendy attire.

  • Address: 6083 McKay Ave, Burnaby, BC V5H 2W7 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: Tickets include a full dinner + access to three dance floors 
  • Age requirements: 19+ 
  • Vibe: Elegant gala dinner, formal, multiple genres of music
  • Pro Tip: You can opt out of the dinner and grab a dance-only ticket.

Cirque NYE at Science World

Cirque NYE at Science World redefines how you celebrate New Year’s by mixing a club atmosphere with acrobats, aerialists, and visual spectacle. The venue becomes a two-floor circus with three music rooms, ten DJs, and live performers. 

  • Address: 1455 Quebec St., Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7 
  • Date: December 31st, 2025 | 9 PM - 2:30 AM 
  • Ticket info: Tickets from $80+ 
  • Age requirements: 19+ 
  • Vibe: Three rooms of music, cirque performers, gala dress code. 
  • Pro Tip: Splurge for a VIP ticket to get unrestricted access to private seating and a third private music room.
Photographer: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Luxury Cruises and Dining 

Luxury Cruises and Dining let you watch the skyline shift while enjoying a mixture of glamour and tranquility. Some of the best restaurants in Vancouver even offer special New Year’s Eve menus! 

New Year’s Eve Cruise by Vancouver Cruises 

The New Year’s Eve Cruise by Vancouver Cruises offers a spectacular way to ring in Vancouver NYE 2025 with style, scenery, and sound. You’ll have plenty of space to dance, dine, and enjoy the skyline without feeling overwhelmed.

We love this event because it combines a gourmet buffet, a live DJ-hosted dance floor, and panoramic water views. 

  • Address: Departs from 501 Denman St., Vancouver, BC V6G 2W9 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: General admission from $85, VIP/reserved tables available 
  • Age requirements: 19+ (check event details for younger-friendly sailings) 
  • Vibe: Elegant dinner cruise with buffet, DJ, dance floor, and waterfront ambience 
  • Pro Tip: Book a window seat early to see the city in a new light and arrive a little before boarding for the best view of the city lights and fireworks. 

Spirit Cruises New Year’s Eve 

Spirit Cruises New Year’s Eve will make your evening feel less like a countdown in a crowd and more like a flowing journey through city lights and water reflections. We love this event because it offers a party atmosphere and a relaxing, floating adventure. 

  • Address: 450 Denman St., Vancouver, BC V6G 3J1 
  • Date: December 31, 2025
  • Ticket info: Public ticketed events & private charter options 
  • Age requirements: Party cruises typically 19+ 
  • Vibe: Dinner-and-dance yacht, live DJ or band, full bar 
  • Pro Tip: Many review-guests say the front deck offers the best city skyline backdrop, and you’ll avoid most dockside bustle. 

Annalena 

Annalena has a tasting menu that focuses on high-quality local ingredients and thoughtful presentation. We love this spot because it gives you a moment of elegance and flavour. Annalena’s intimate setting means less noise and more meaningful conversation. 

  • Address: 1809 W 1st Ave., Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 (dinner time) 
  • Ticket info: Reservation required 
  • Age requirements: All ages allowed
  • Vibe: Upscale tasting-menu restaurant with modern design, relaxed luxury 
  • Pro Tip: Opt for the earliest dinner seating if you’re planning to hit a club or countdown later.
Annalena from Facebook

Acquafarina 

Acquafarina combines waterfront elegance with vibrant dining energy, letting guests watch the city lights reflect off False Creek as they enjoy a refined menu. They have a selection of unique wines from Portugal and Spain, along with pizza, pasta, and other delicious eats.

  • Address: 425 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5A1 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: Reservation required 
  • Age requirements: All ages 
  • Vibe: Upscale Italian‑inspired seafood and pasta, waterfront views. 
  • Pro Tip: Ask for a window table facing False Creek for prime sunset-to-midnight views and potential skyline fireworks. 
Acquafarina

New Year’s Eve Dinner at The Sylvia Hotel 

New Year’s Eve Dinner at The Sylvia Hotel is a calm yet elegant way to enjoy exceptional food and seaside views. The prix-fixe menu covers everything from smoked steelhead amuse-bouche to truffle risotto. This heritage site is a pretty spot to ring in the New Year, especially if you’re looking for something more low-key.

  • Address: 1154 Gilford St., Vancouver, BC V6G 2P6 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: $85 per person (pre-fixed menu) 
  • Age requirements: All ages 
  • Vibe: Sophisticated dinner overlooking English Bay with a curated four-course menu. 
  • Pro Tip: Reserve a window table facing English Bay to catch early skyline lights and potential firework reflections on the water.

Outdoor NYE Events in Vancouver 

Outdoor NYE events in Vancouver turn the whole city into a celebration, giving you skyline views, open-air energy, and a chance to experience the countdown with a crowd. 

Firework 

Fireworks at Cypress Mountain are a great way to celebrate. The mountain location allows you to enjoy crisp air while you take in the view. You’re above the city, far from downtown's surge, and the scene becomes part spectacle, part escape.

  • Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd., West Vancouver, BC V7W 3G7 
  • Date: December 31, 2025
  • Ticket info: Event tickets required (special NYE program) 
  • Age requirements: All ages
  • Vibe: Mountain-top party with fireworks, DJ, food & drink, spectacular view 
  • Pro Tip: Bring warm footwear and layers.
Firework at Cypress Mountain from Official Website

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park 

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a holiday event that runs into January. You can take in the beautiful lights and the nature that surrounds you. Short walks open into beautiful views, while longer loops through the treetops make the park feel almost cinematic.

  • Address: 3735 Capilano Rd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: Timed-entry admission (book online) 
  • Age requirements: All ages 
  • Vibe: treetop bridges, cliffside paths, sparkling lights
  • Pro Tip: Look for the “Cliffwalk” section after dark. Its curved walkway gives one of the clearest vantage points for long-exposure photos and light reflections across the canyon.
Canyon Lights from Official website

Granville Street NYE Pedestrian Zone 

Granville Street is great for taking in pop-up performances, grabbing a bite from food vendors, and taking in DJ sets. It’s an easy pick if you want atmosphere over structure and don’t mind the buzz of a big-city New Year’s Eve celebration. 

  • Address: Granville St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L4 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: Free public event 
  • Age requirements: All ages 
  • Vibe: Street party with DJs, food vendors, performers, and shared countdown energy. 
  • Pro Tip: Head toward Robson and Granville for the most space.

Family-Friendly Activities 

Kid-friendly activities are available for those who prefer a calmer, more interactive family NYE in Vancouver. Here are some of the top things to do with kids in Vancouver.

Robson Square Ice Rink 

Robson Square Ice Rink is a cozy, bright, and community-driven celebration. We love this event because it works beautifully for family NYE Vancouver plans and gives you a festive winter backdrop without the price tag of bigger parties.

  • Address: 800 Robson St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 3B7 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM 
  • Ticket info: Free admission | skate rentals available 
  • Age requirements: All ages 
  • Vibe: Music, lights, and a lively downtown atmosphere. 
  • Pro Tip: Helmets are mandatory for anyone who is 12 years or under.

Grouse Mountain Light Walk & Mountain Activities 

Grouse Mountain Light Walk & mountain activities give families a magical way to experience New Year’s magic with the family. The forest trail glows with installations that turn the snow into a reflective surface.

You can also enjoy skating, snowshoeing, or a warm drink at the chalet. We love this event because it offers a rare mix of calm, beauty, and family-friendly energy.

  • Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 
  • Ticket info: Mountain admission Adult $82 | Children $42 
  • Age requirements: All ages 
  • Vibe: Illuminated forest trail, snow, skating, cozy chalet atmosphere. 
  • Pro Tip: Bring traction cleats for kids’ boots. The light walk is stunning, but the packed-snow sections can get slippery after a full evening of foot traffic.
Grouse Mountain Light Walk Official website

Happy Noon Year Family Storytime 

Happy Noon Year Family Storytime is great for younger families as it’s put on during the day! We love this event because it gives kids a genuine countdown feeling in a calm library setting. After the countdown, children can enjoy singing, reading poetry, dancing, and other activities!

  • Address: 6076 Fraser St., Vancouver V5W 2Z7 
  • Date: December 31, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM 
  • Ticket info: Free – registration may be required 
  • Age requirements: Toddlers & preschool-age
  • Vibe: Storytime, songs, poems, early countdown. 
  • Pro Tip: Arrive just before 11:30 AM to choose floor seating for better engagement. 

How to Plan Your Night in Vancouver 

  • Use Transit: SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus typically run late on New Year’s Eve, making transit the safest and most reliable way to navigate Vancouver.
  • Choose a Smart Place to Stay: Hotels near Waterfront, Burrard, Stadium–Chinatown, or Yaletown-Roundhouse keep you close to NYE parties in Vancouver and reduce late-night travel time. 
  • Match the Event’s Dress Code: Many venues lean toward cocktail attire, while others stay casual. You can confirm expectations, so you’re not underdressed or overdressed. 
  • Keep Safety in Mind: Charge your phone, stay in well-lit areas, and set a clear meeting point if you’re celebrating with a group. 
  • Plan for Families Wisely: For a family NYE Vancouver, stick to earlier events, consider noise levels, and prep kids for crowds and possible late nights. 

FAQs About New Year’s Eve in Vancouver 

When is the best time to arrive at Vancouver NYE events?

The best time to arrive at Vancouver NYE events varies. For family-friendly activities, it’s best to arrive early (around 5–6 PM).

How should I dress for New Year’s Eve in Vancouver? 

Dressing for New Year’s Eve in Vancouver is simple.Layer for cold, wet weather and choose attire appropriate to your event—casual-festive for outdoor areas, cocktail or semi-formal for upscale restaurants or gala dinners. 

Are reservations required for restaurants on New Year’s Eve?

Yes, most popular spots like Acquafarina, and Annalena require reservations well in advance due to high demand. 

How busy does downtown Vancouver get on NYE?

Downtown Vancouver gets very busy. Granville Street, Waterfront, and Canada Place can see tens of thousands of visitors, so plan for crowds and longer wait times for food, restrooms, and transit. 

Ring in the New Year Vancouver-Style 

Vancouver transforms into a city of lights, music, and unforgettable moments on New Year’s Eve, offering something for everyone.

For a night of spectacle, energy, and immersive entertainment, don’t miss our Cirque du Soleil shows in Vancouver. Our performances are the perfect way to start the year with awe-inspiring performances and a celebration you’ll remember long after the countdown.

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