Snow much fun — things to do in Kamloops this December
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Wines of British Columbia
Bundle up and get ready for a December to remember in Kamloops! This winter wonderland is brimming with family-friendly festivities that promise to ignite the holiday spirit in everyone.
From outdoor adventures to twinkling lights to Santa sightings, Kamloops is a festive playground for all ages. Join us as we unwrap the magic and explore the enchanting family friendly activities awaiting you this December.
A Season of Stories: Arts & Culture in December
Elvis Stojko, Olympic Silver Medalist
Stars on Ice Holiday Show
Kaitlyn Weaver & Andrew Poje, World Silver Medalists
Stars on Ice Holiday Show
Stars on Ice 2024 Holiday Tour
December 13th, 2024 | 7:00 PM | Sandman Centre
Twirl into the holiday spirit with an evening of world-class figure skating at the Stars on Ice Holiday Show! On December 13, 2024, the Sandman Centre will come alive with dazzling performances from skating legends, including two-time Olympic Silver Medalist Elvis Stojko, Kaetlyn Osmond, and the dynamic duo Kaitlyn Weaver & Andrew Poje.
Whether you’re a lifelong skating fan or simply looking for an enchanting holiday outing, this world-class figure skating performance promises to inspire and delight.
Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic —secure your tickets now at the Stars on Ice website.
Christmas with the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra
Friday & Saturday, December 13 & 14, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Sagebrush Theatre
Ring in the season with a heartwarming evening of holiday favourites at Christmas with the KSO, featuring the beautiful voices of the KSMS Children’s Chorus and the timeless tradition of carol sing-alongs. It’s a performance that transforms live music into holiday magic.
Sunday, December 15, 2024 | 2:00 PM & Relaxed Performance at 4:00 PM | Sagebrush Theatre
Bring the little ones to a magical afternoon filled with holiday cheer tailored just for them. The Kid's Christmas relaxed performance at 4:00 PM provides an inclusive environment for all families, ensuring everyone can enjoy the wonders of orchestra music.
Let the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra sweep you away with the festive melodies of the season. Visit the KSO website for tickets and more details.
Choral Rhapsody
December 16th, 2024 | 7:00 PM
Who doesn't love a free community concert? Choral Rhapsody will feature eleven local choirs, including Amazing Singing, Happy Choristers and more, performing a delightful selection of Christmas carols and singalongs in between sets for audience participation.
In addition to the choirs, the handbell choir Bells of Note will welcome the audience with a selection of music in the lobby prior to the start of the concert.
This is a free community concert sponsored by the City of Kamloops—food and cash donations for the Kamloops Food Bank will be gratefully accepted at the door to support residents in our community.
Holiday Shopping
Kamloops Gift Guide & Artisan Markets
Searching for the perfect present? The Kamloops Gift Guide is your ultimate guide for gifts that go beyond belongings — giving unforgettable experiences that will be cherished for years to come. Still need inspiration? Dive into our holiday shopping guide to find thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list. For truly unique finds, visit our seasonal artisan markets and discover one-of-a-kind local treasures for someone special.
Monte Creek Winery
@heybethtaylor
Monte Creek Winery
Mary Putnam
Monte Creek Holiday Artisan Market
Dec 7 & 8 2024 | Saturday 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Sunday 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Find something for everyone on your shopping list at Monte Creek’s Holiday Artisan Market. Wander through the festive Greenhouse, discovering unique creations crafted by talented local artisans. To make your shopping even better, enjoy a glass of Monte Creek’s signature mulled wine— the perfect way to find thoughtful gifts and holiday treasures.
Valley Markets at the Sahali Mall
November 30th & December 7th, 14th & 21st, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
The Valley Markets team is gathering a vibrant mix of local artisans, small businesses, and talented bakers for a series of exceptional markets at the Sahali Mall. Explore an array of handcrafted creations, delectable baked treats, and unique finds—ideal for adding a special touch to your holiday celebrations!
Privato Vineyard & Winery
@heybethtaylor
Monte Creek Winery
@heybethtaylor
Kamloops Wine Trail Holiday Open House
December 21st, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Monte Creek, Privato & Sagewood Winery
Monte Creek, Privato, and Sagewood Wineries invite you to celebrate the holiday season with a day of sipping, shopping, and festive cheer at the Holiday Open House. Enjoy complimentary wine tastings and an exclusive one-day sale—mix and match six bottles to receive 15% off and a complimentary tote bag. It’s a delightful way to share the magic of local wines with your holiday guests!
Immerse yourself in holiday charm with activities at Privato like hayrides, photos with Santa, mulled wine by the fire, and hot chocolate for the little ones. At Monte Creek, master the art of crafting the perfect platter in a charcuterie workshop with Chef Paige, all while sipping your favourite wine.
Celebrate the season in style—visit one winery or all three for a holiday adventure filled with local charm and seasonal spirit!
Catch the best Christmas lights
Get ready to dazzle your eyes and amp up the holiday vibes in Kamloops! Grab the family and bundle up for a glowing adventure like no other. It's not just about the sparkle; it's about the full-on magic that comes with it.
We've scoped out the coolest spots to catch the most beautiful lights, from streets decked out like a Christmas movie to trains passing through that light up the night, we've got it all. Grab your warmest winter gear, hit the town, and soak up the festive brilliance. Check out these must-see spots – trust us, your holiday season just got a whole lot brighter!
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
CPKC
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
December 18th, 2024 | 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Travelling across the U.S. and Canada, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train brings the magic of the season and a heartfelt commitment to making a difference with food insecurity.
Celebrating its 26th year, the Holiday Train experience gets an extra dose of star power, with performances by Magic! and Sofia Camara. So, mark your calendars, bundle up, and get ready for a night of twinkling lights, festive tunes, and a whole lot of holiday spirit!
Cassie's Charity Drive
December 2024 | nightly
Starting at 6:30 PM on December 1, 2024, Cassie's Annual Charity Drive lights up the season with a spectacular Christmas light display at the McNutt home, 5215 Dallas Drive. Visitors can marvel at the nightly displays throughout the month while contributing to a great cause.
Support the Kamloops Hospice by making cash donations, purchasing 50/50 tickets, or donating wish list items. The giving begins early with an online 50/50 draw running until December 20, 2024. Stop by to enjoy the lights, share the love, and celebrate the magic of the season!
Wildlights, BC Wildlife Park
Aspect Filmworks
Wildlights at the BC Wildlife Park
December 13th - January 5th, 2024 (excluding Christmas Day) | 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM nightly
As the sun sets, prepare for a dazzling spectacle at the park, where over 1 million magical lights burst into radiant hues every night, transforming the animals home into a breathtaking display of colours. The BC Wildlife Park welcomes visitors from 4:00 PM onwards, with the enchanting light display beginning at 5:00 PM nightly.
In collaboration with the Canucks Autism Network, December 13th will be a sensory-friendly evening, including a designated quiet space, visual storybook, and sensory kits. Visit the BC Wildlife Park website for more information on their sensory-friendly evening.
Wildlights at the BC Wildlife Park
Mary Putnam
Wildlights at the BC Wildlife Park
Mary Putnam
Anna & Elsa Performances
Fridays & Saturdays | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Little ones can meet the beloved duo Anna & Elsa, and catch their musical performances at 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM every Saturday and Friday evening. If the temperature goes below -10, fear not – the royal sisters will relocate to the cozy Winter Wonderland display indoors.
Uncle Chris the Clown Performances
Nighty | 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Ready to bring the laughs, Uncle Chris the Clown takes the stage every 45 minutes nightly (excluding December 24, 31, January 2, 4, & 5) from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm at the Splash Park. On colder nights, catch his lively shows indoors at the Wildlife Presentation Theatre.
Holiday Moments with Santa
December 13 – 23rd, 2024 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Buddy the Elf as they spread holiday cheer! Create magical memories with Santa photos available for purchase on select dates: December 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, and 22. Don’t miss this festive opportunity to capture the spirit of the season.
Looking for more Santa sightings? Explore our list below to find the perfect spot for season's greetings!
Meet Santa and his merry crew
Get ready to sprinkle some holiday magic into your month in Kamloops! From the jolly man in red, Santa Claus himself, to the mischievous Grinch and the sweet Cindy Lou Who, all your winter favourites are gathering for a festive party time. It's not just a meet-and-greet; it's a chance to share laughs, wishes, and maybe even a cookie or two with the icons of the season.
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Wines of British Columbia
Privato Vineyard & Winery
@heybethtaylor
Winter Wonderland at Privato
November 17th - December 22nd, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Santa's Workshop: Saturday & Sunday | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Hay Rides: Saturday & Sunday | 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
*Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Step into the enchanting Winter Wonderland at Privato, where frosty festivities await! On weekends, Santa himself makes a special appearance to spread holiday cheer, and you can snap a FREE photo—just don’t forget your camera or phone.
Wander through scenic spots perfect for family photos, and hop on a hayride to explore the stunning Privato property, creating cherished memories along the way. Warm up by the cozy fire pits and indulge in the timeless tradition of roasting s'mores with your loved ones.
While you're there, visit the Woodward Christmas Trees farm to pick out your perfect tree and enjoy mulled wine or hot apple cider to keep the holiday spirit flowing. Wine and cider tastings are also available in the tasting room from Thursday to Monday. Best of all, furry family members are welcome to join the fun!
Who-Ville Kamloops
Lisa White
Who-Ville Kamloops
Lisa White
Who-Ville Kamloops at the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour
November 29th*, 30 & December 1st and December 6 - 8th, 2024
Come and experience the festive spirit at the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour for a magical Who-Ville evening! The Mayor of Who-Ville, his lovely wife, the mischievous Grinch, sweet Cindy-Lou, and loyal Max the Dog will all be waiting to celebrate with you.
Create cherished memories as the original cartoon Grinch comes to life on the big screen, and keep an eye out for the Grinch's playful antics throughout the evening. For entry Who-Ville kindly welcomes gently used children's books or small cash donations, all of which will support Kamloops Literacy.
*The celebrations begin on Friday, November 29th, 2024 with a sensory-friendly family night. The Who-Ville experience kicks off at 6:00 PM on Fridays & Saturdays and 5:00 PM on Sundays.
Breakfast with Santa at The Coast Hotel
December 22nd, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Kick off the holiday season with a delightful Breakfast with Santa at The Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Centre! Santa Claus will be on hand to spread holiday cheer and create magical memories for little ones. Your $27 ticket (plus tax) includes a scrumptious breakfast buffet, meet-and-greet with Santa, crafts, activities, and more.
Don’t forget your camera to capture those special moments with the man in red. This festive event goes beyond fun—it also gives back, with proceeds supporting the Royal Inland Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, providing essential care for newborns in need. Join in the joy and make a difference this holiday season!
Family winter activities in Kamloops
Outdoor enthusiasts get ready to explore the natural beauty of the snow-covered Thompson Valley. From epic ski resorts to festive sleigh rides, Kamloops offers endless outdoor activities for everyone to discover this winter.
Harper Mountain Ski and Snowboard
Dylan Sherrard
Tubing at Harper Mountain
Slide into laughs at the Harper Mountain Snow Town Tube Park, where the fun doesn't stop, whether it's day or night! Gather your crew for nonstop giggles, shrieks, and big smiles as you zoom down the snow-covered slopes. This adventure is perfect for all ages, with tubing available for the littlest adventurers aged 3 and up. The excitement continues off the slopes, too! Warm up by the fires, where you can roast hotdogs and marshmallows, adding a delicious touch to your tubing adventures.
The projected opening date for the tube park is December 14, 2024. Be sure to check the Harper Mountain website for updates to confirm snow conditions before heading out!
Harper Mountain Snow Town Tube Park Hours
Saturdays & Sundays | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Christmas Holidays: Dec 21 - Jan 5 (closed on Dec 25) | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Night tubing Friday & Saturday Nights | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The Ranch
Tianna Dilley
The Ranch
Tianna Dilley
Holiday horse-drawn sleigh rides at The Ranch
Embrace the holiday spirit with a magical sleigh ride at The Ranch in Pritchard, just a short drive from Kamloops. For only $20 per person glide through a snowy wonderland, surrounded by the crisp winter air. After your journey, gather by the fire to sip hot chocolate, roast marshmallows, and meet The Ranch's friendly goats for an extra touch of festive charm. Advanced reservations are required, email book your spot and let the holiday magic begin!
The Ranch hours
When there's snow on the ground | 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Inks Lake
Olsen Imaging
Ice skate at the local ice rinks
Lace up and glide into the season with indoor skating rinks located throughout the city. These rinks operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but you can book your public skating online to secure your spot. Don’t forget, onsite registration and equipment rentals are cash-only.
For a true Canadian experience, explore Kamloops' scenic outdoor skating rinks when weather conditions allow. Safety is key—always check ice thickness before stepping onto a frozen surface. Visit the Adventure Smart website to stay informed on winter and ice safety.
Sun Peaks Resort
Destination BC/Ryan Creary
Skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at Sun Peaks
Say hello to a winter wonderland adventure at Sun Peaks Resort, where a plethora of snowy delights awaits the entire family. From the thrill of skiing and snowboarding their mountain peaks to snowshoeing their serene trails, there's a winter activity for every taste. Feel the rush of the catch ice fishing on frozen lakes, conquer the snow-covered trails with your fat bike, or strap in for an unforgettable ride dog sledding.
If you're in the mood for something indoors, why not try your hand at indoor golf or axe throwing? Sun Peaks Resort is the ultimate one-stop-shop for a day packed with family fun, ensuring that every member of your crew finds their perfect winter activity in this snowy paradise.
Visiting Kamloops in December
As you navigate the holiday hustle in Kamloops this December, don't forget the real stars of the show: your loved ones. Whether you're shredding the slopes, checking out the twinkle lights, or chilling with Santa, soak up the good times and laughter of the season.
Life's too short not to have a blast, so enjoy the ride, share a few jokes, and make some memories that even the Grinch would crack a smile at. Kamloops is your playground — go have some fun with your crew and soak in all that December magic!
Still on the hunt for holiday cheer? Explore our list of holiday events and dive into the festive spirit!
Don't forget to keep us in the 'Loop with your incredible adventures this winter. Snap those memorable moments and share your journey with us by tagging @tourismkamloops and using the hashtag #ExploreKamloops.
