Why a free fireworks show is bursting over Vancouver next week
FEATURED ON THE LISTED GUIDE
The holidays in Vancouver just wouldn’t be as bright without the Lights of Hope, and this year is kicking off with the return of the popular fireworks display.
St. Paul’s Foundation’s massive light display outside St. Paul’s Hospital has been an annual Christmastime tradition and fundraising campaign since 1998.
More than 100,000 lights and hundreds of shining stars recognizing the support of generous donors will be officially switched on Thursday, Nov. 27, and fireworks will commemorate the occasion on opening night.
There will also be free hot chocolate and a variety of popular food trucks on-site for attendees to enjoy.
St. Paul’s Foundation
- You might also like:
- Vancouver's forecast has one bright spot in gloomy week ahead
- A busy section of Vancouver's seawall is closed for two weeks
- Couples in B.C. with disabilities will soon receive boost to government benefits
“Lights of Hope is our biggest community fundraiser of the year. Funds raised support ground-breaking research projects, purchase state-of-the-art medical equipment, and attract and retain the world’s top researchers and clinicians,” Sheila Biggers, CEO and president of St. Paul’s Foundation, previously said to Daily Hive.
“Every day, our care teams across Providence Health Care see patients and families at some of their darkest times. Lights of Hope raises funds that will help save lives and ensure British Columbians have access to world-class, compassionate care right here at home.”
According to St. Paul’s Foundation, donations to the campaign have totalled over $57 million throughout its history, with hundreds of thousands of patients and residents impacted by donors’ generosity.
St. Paul’s Foundation
The 28th annual Lights of Hope has a fundraising goal of $3.7 million, which will help support patients and frontline health care workers.
Visitors to the Lights of Hope kickoff event on Thursday, Nov. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. will enjoy holiday photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus for a suggested donation of $20.
There will be hot drinks from Beyond Coffee and Starbucks, mouthwatering food trucks like Hugs Mini Donuts and Gary’s Kettle Corn, and a stunning fireworks display for all ages to enjoy.
St. Paul’s Foundation
There will also be live entertainment and holiday classics throughout the evening from Vancouver Bach Choir, West End Children’s Choir, and the What’s Next Band.
Those wanting to take the lights’ magic with them wherever they go can purchase limited-edition Hope at Home star lanterns here. You can even purchase a star for a long-term care home to continue spreading holiday cheer.
Learn about more great holiday events happening around Vancouver online.
St. Paul’s Hospital Lights of Hope kickoff and fireworks
When: Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025 (lights will be on display until early January)
Time: 6 to 8 p.m. for kickoff, nightly throughout the holiday season
Where: St. Paul’s Hospital – 1081 Burrard St., Vancouver
Admission: Free; donations can be made online
Daily Hive is a proud sponsor of St. Paul’s Hospital’s 2025 Lights of Hope
Community Partnership Content