Holiday Activities for Families with Toddlers - South Surrey/White Rock
If you have a young child, you probably understand how important it is to find fun things to do in your area that don’t require you to drive for more than 30 minutes. Our 3 year-old is past the napping stage, and even he fell asleep in the car when we tried to go to one of the Surrey lights events a few nights ago! We skipped it, knowing he would be miserable if we woke up him in the evening so close to bedtime. So I took it upon myself to ask some local parents for suggestions on daytime activities that are good for young kids.
South Surrey itself has some gems for things to do, but there are also some fun activities and events within a short driving distance that don’t require it to be dark out to enjoy them.
These are some that were recommended to me:
1) Winterfest at the Bear Creek Train
Book the “Santa Express” for a cute train ride through a festive forest, and you can visit with Santa as well! It only took us about 20 minutes to drive there from South Surrey and the train is pretty short, which is perfect for young kids with limited patience for lengthy activities. Make sure to book in advance for a spot.
Just a short drive to Cloverdale, Lumagica is an outdoor/indoor global holiday experience making a Canadian debut in Surrey. A magical 1 km walk that captures the spirit of the Holidays. You are then transported through a light tunnel to Gingerbread Lane, leading to the magical North Pole Village, with interactive displays, animation, and photo opportunities there is something for everyone.
3) Lights at White Rock Pier
The waterfront by the pier is now lit up! If you’re looking a free event that brings on the holiday cheer this is it. Take a stroll by the waterside and enjoy the lights. Bonus: free parking on weekdays.
4) Santa Photos at Semiahmoo Mall
Covid protocol has Santa behind plexiglass, but young kids don’t seem to mind this! Our 3 year-old hates the idea of sitting on a stranger’s lap anyway.
5) Tour the local lights
Summerville down near the border is full of some of the best decorated houses. You can also check out this list of the best decorated houses in Surrey. Best part, it’s free, and toddlers always love lights!