3 fun facts about CF Richmond Centre's massive Christmas Tree

It’s that time of year again! As the weather cools and the festive vibes rise, CF Richmond Centre is preparing to light up its iconic Christmas Tree.

The lighting ceremony is taking place on Saturday, Nov. 14 at 6 p.m., and it’s sure to be an incredible spectacle. After all, this is no ordinary Christmas tree.

Here are three fun facts about this iconic piece of Vancouver holiday magic.

It’s Metro Vancouver’s tallest tree

At 78 feet tall, CF Richmond Centre’s tree is the largest in Metro Vancouver. To put it in perspective, that’s higher than most low-rise buildings in the city, and two feet taller than Vancouver’s second-tallest Christmas tree.

If you live in a three-storey walk-up, then this tree is probably bigger than your house!

It’s high-tech

CF Richmond Centre

The natural beauty of the Christmas tree is enhanced by high-tech artistry.

Thousands of programmable LED lights produce dazzling displays in daily light and music shows that run at the top of the hour every two hours from 2 to 8 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027.

It comes with even more festive fun this year

This season, Santa’s Workshop at CF Richmond Centre has a few new additions. Kids can visit the new Santa’s Mailroom to write a letter to Santa and mail it to him right there. The Santa set also has new décor to explore, including walk-through ornaments and wreaths and a mother and baby deer.

Walk-ups are welcome based on the daily schedule. Just check in at Santa’s Mailroom when you arrive.Families can enjoy complimentary chocolate tastings and weekend giveaway surprises from Purdys Chocolatier and the LEGO Group, and kids will also have the opportunity to write and mail letters to Santa!

Join CF Richmond Centre on Saturday, Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. to kick off the holidays with the very first light show of the season. Can’t make it? The celebration continues all season long with daily light shows at 2, 4, 8, and 6 p.m.

CF Richmond Centre Holiday Tree Lighting

Where: Outdoor Plaza, CF Richmond Centre, 6551 No. 3 Road, Richmond
When: Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026
Time: 6 p.m.
Cost: Free