Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Steveston Festival of Trees 2025
Step into a festive wonderland at the Steveston Festival of Trees, transforming the historic Gulf of Georgia Cannery into a holiday spectacle. Local partners showcase their creativity with beautifully decorated trees, inviting visitors to cast their vote for the favorite. Immerse yourself in holiday traditions with special events like Filipino Parol crafting, dance performances, and opportunities to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.
What to Expect
Community vote for favorite decorated holiday tree
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: Car and bus parking is available in a paid parking lot at Chatham St. and Fourth Avenue. Booked groups are eligible for free parking.
- Accessibility: The Cannery is wheelchair accessible, though some wooden floorboards are uneven. The Vitamin Oil Shed is not used in school programs, and the Wheelhouse (used for Fishy Business) can be removed upon request.
- Pets: No dogs allowed inside the Cannery; Dog Photos with Santa are held outside.
Other Christmas Events Near Richmond
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, holiday enthusiasts, community event goers
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, historic, whimsical
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (indoor event, but outdoor photo opportunities)
Special Events & Promotions
- Filipino Holiday Heritage โ Parol Crafting Workshop and Dance Performance
- Santa at the Cannery (free admission and photos with Santa)
- Dog Photos with Santa
- Voting for Steveston's Favourite Tree
Location
Event Details
Duration
10am-5pm daily
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Steveston Village
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Philippine Cultural Arts Society
Organizer
Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society
Food & Drink
Not specified, but implied by 'festive food and warm beverages' in general description.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Dress warmly, as the historic Cannery building can be colder inside than outdoors, even on mild days.
- For Santa photos on December 7th, arrive early to pick up your free ticket, as they are limited and first-come, first-served.
- Bring your own camera or smartphone for photos with Santa, as professional photography services are not provided.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds, especially for popular events like Santa photos.
- Check the Translink trip planner before heading out to ensure smooth public transit travel to Steveston Village.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme for this year's Festival of Trees?
The theme for 2025 is 'Holiday Touchstones,' encouraging decorators to include objects, decorations, and gifts that hold holiday stories and memories.
How can I vote for my favorite tree?
You can vote for your favorite tree onsite with your admission, or on the Gulf of Georgia Cannery's Facebook page between November 29th and December 31st.
Are there any special events happening during the festival?
Yes, there are several special events including a Filipino Holiday Heritage workshop and dance performance, Santa at the Cannery, and Dog Photos with Santa.
Is admission free for all events?
Regular admission fees apply to the Festival of Trees itself. However, 'Santa at the Cannery' offers free admission and free photos with Santa (tickets required). The Filipino Holiday Heritage event is free with admission.
Can I bring my pet inside the Cannery?
No, pets are not allowed inside the Gulf of Georgia Cannery. However, 'Dog Photos with Santa' are available outside on December 14th.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.