Stanley Park Christmas Train remains closed nearly a week after being forced to suddenly close due to a worker safety incident, with thousands of guests receiving refunds for their hard-earned tickets.
The Vancouver Park Board told Daily Hive today that it will continue suspending train operations until further notice due to a worker safety incident that occurred on the evening of Friday, December 13.
The earliest that guests will be able to return to the Bright Nights Train will be on Monday, December 23, though that is contingent on the safety inspections and approvals being passed.
Bright Nights Christmas Train at Stanley Park
“One of our drivers had symptoms of dizziness and nausea on Friday and it was presumed these symptoms were the result of train exhaust. As a result, the train was suspended,” said the Park Board.
“Staff are working with our engineering team to fix the exhaust issue. However, this will require some time and will also need the necessary inspection and approvals from WorkSafeBC and Technical Safety BC.”
To date, 17,000 Christmas Train tickets for the 27th annual Bright Nights have been refunded up to and including Sunday, December 22. The seasonal displays on the train plaza remain open to the public and can be enjoyed by donation.
The event, along with the corresponding 50/50, is the single largest fundraiser each year for the Burn Fund, which provides life-saving, life-supporting, and life-enriching services to people in BC.
PNE Winter Fair
Another Vancouver holiday attraction is stepping in to help keep the Christmas spirit alive during the shutdown.
The PNE has offered everyone affected by the ongoing Stanley Park Christmas Train cancellations free passes to its annual Winter Fair, happening until Monday, December 23.
“As a gesture to those people who were disappointed to have their tickets cancelled for the Stanley Park Bright Nights Train we are offering those who were holding tickets complimentary tickets to the PNE Winter Fair—a $30 value per ticket,” PNE spokesperson Laura Ballance told Daily Hive. “These tickets cover entrance fee, giving the guest access to celebrate the festive holiday season – PNE style!”
“Each ticket holder who had purchased Bright Nights tickets have been contacted via email and redemption link and I’m very happy to report that many are already redeeming their complimentary tickets for Winter Fair.”
PNE Winter Fair guests can look forward to twice-nightly performances of the Nutcracker On Ice at the Pacific Coliseum included with admission.
PNE Winter Fair
The BCAA-presented event also features holiday-themed food and drinks, light displays, live entertainment, and more.
Be sure to take the time to hop aboard the PNE Express Train presented by Translink – Holiday Edition for a festive journey through glowing light tunnels and whimsical winter scenes.
When: Now until January 4, 2025 (closed on December 25)
Time: 4 to 10 pm
Where: Pipeline Road in Stanley Park, via the West Georgia Street park entrance
Admission: Bright Nights admission by donation
When: December 6 to 8 and 12 to 23, 2024
Time: 4 to 10 pm
Where: Hastings Park – 2901 E Hastings Street, Vancouver
Cost: PNE Winter Fair tickets are $7.50 to $20 in advance, purchase online. Group rates and BCAA discounted tickets are also available.