10 outdoor events to check out in Vancouver in January

Get outside and enjoy the new year! Here are 10 outdoor events to check out in and around Vancouver this January, including Whistler Pride and Ski Festival, Canyon Lights, and more.

For more things happening around town, check out our events section.

Try Freestyle at Grouse Mountain

What: Confident skiers between the ages of 7 to 17 are invited to try freestyle skiing at Grouse Mountain on January 4 with a professional coach. Hosted by Freestyle Vancouver.

When: January 4, 2020
Time: 7:30 am to 2 pm
Where: Meet at base of Grouse Mountain, across from Starbucks
Admission: Free, register online

Walk Richmond – King George Park

What: Go on a guided walk of King George Park, a 30-acre urban park in East Richmond, and discover the many amenities, including community gardens and a waterplay area. Attendees are invited to stop by the Richmond Public Library pop-up table afterwards to learn about library resources and free community classes.

When: January 4, 2020
Time: 10 to 11 am
Where: Meet at main entrance to Cambie Community Centre — 12800 Cambie Road, Richmond
Admission: Free

Brackendale Eagle Festival

Bald eagle (Ian Duffield/Shutterstock)

What: The 34th annual Brackendale Eagle Festival is a celebration of eagles, featuring a special lineup of concerts, lecture series, art shows, group tours and the annual Bald Eagle Count held on the first Sunday in January.

When: January 5, 2020 (Eagle Count); January 11 (The Matinee concert); January 12, 13, 18, and 19 (Natural World Lecture Series).
Time: Various times
Where: Brackendale Art Gallery — 41950 Government Rd, Brackendale
More Information: Online

Hands On Scientist Barn Owls

What:​ Owl researcher Sofi Hindmarch hosts an evening of interesting owl study insights and a walk to look for signs of owls at Campbell Valley Regional Park.

When: January 9 and January 11, 2019
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 pm
Where: Campbell Valley Regional Park — 20285 8 Avenue, Langley
Register: Phone 604-432-6359. $8.50 per adult, $4.50 per adult 65+

Nature Work Parties

What: Help take care of Surrey’s unique urban forest in Hazelnut Meadows Community Park by removing invasive plants and litter. No experience is required and everyone is welcome to take part. Tools, training and light refreshments will be provided.

When: January 11 and February 8, 2020
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
Where: Hazelnut Meadows Community Park – 14069 68 Avenue, Surrey
Admission: Free

Vallea Lumina

What: Vallea Lumina is a 45-minute adventure that follows two hikers seeking “a mystical valley where stardust falls from the sky.” The interactive experience gives hikers the chance to play, touch, and engage with Vallea Lumina’s ever-changing environment, and it is presented by Montreal-based entertainment studio Moment Factory and Whistler’s “The Adventure Group.”

When: Now until April 2020
Time: Shows begin at sundown
Where: Cougar Mountain, free shuttles from Whistler Village
Tickets: Online, $29.99 per adult; $24.99 per child

Birding Walks in Surrey Parks

What: A local naturalist leads a birding walk through a Surrey park where you can see the various birds of the city.

Walks are drop-in and will happen rain or shine but may be cancelled due to high winds or extreme weather conditions. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Binoculars will be available to borrow as well.

When: January 18, February 15, March 21, April 18, May 16, 2020
Time: 9 am to 11 am
Where: Various parks in Surrey
Admission: Free

Whistler Pride and Ski Festival 2020

What: Each day begins with open and inclusive guided ski and snowboarding groups, alternating between Whistler and Blackcomb. Afterwards, warm up at the free friendly après. Every night features specially curated entertainment including a game night, a comedy night featuring Pam Ann, and a variety of dance parties.

When: January 26 to February 2, 2020
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations in Whistler
Tickets: Online, tickets vary depending on event

A Gathering of Eagles – Vancouver’s Urban Eagles

What: Learn all about the world of eagles with David Hancock of the Hancock Wildlife Foundation, biologist, conservationist, and lecturer.

When: January 25, 2019
Time: 1 to 2:30 pm
Where: Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre – 3663 Park Road, North Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge 2019

What: The Canyon Lights features thousands of sparkling lights illuminating the iconic suspension bridge and other areas of the park. The 30-ton Douglas Firs of the Treetops Adventure will also be dressed in lights. Standing at an impressive 110 feet above the forest floor, the Douglas Firs that connect the suspension bridges are the eight tallest Christmas trees in the world, according to event organizers. Also returning to this year’s festival is the Snowy Owl Prowl scavenger hunt, gingerbread cookie decorating, and sing-along carols with a holiday band.

When: Now until January 26, 2020
Time: 11 am to 9 pm daily; holiday activities run from 4 to 9 pm
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Tickets: Available online, with annual passes (included with admission) available for BC residents