Bright Nights @ Stanley Park

Something I have always wanted to do was go to Bright Nights at Stanley park. I have never been but after going to the ghost train a couple times I imagined the Christmas train would be spectacular. It was it was a fun family event, in theory. The train was adorable going around a small track for about 10 or 15 mins you get to see the displays they have made and listen to christmas carols. It was great. Around the yard there is a light display and a petting zoo. They also have Hot chocolate, popcorn, roasted chestnuts and carolers. Now for why I would never go back, being that this was the coldest winter in 15 years it was a little cold. I think it was -9 that night without the windchill. But the crowds were completely overwhelming. it was like being at the PNE in winter. We got there at 7 15 and the next avaible tickets were for 8 30. So we walked around the yards, checked out the carolers ate a chestnut...that took 10 mins, we still had one hour to wait with a 5 yr old a 20 month old and a pregnant lady, with no where to sit. We stood in line for the last 45 mins while the men too the kids to the petting zoo. I really think its great that Vancouver has these amazing family activities but shouldnt the crowds tell you something, like its way too crowded in the lower mainland. The whole night was way too overwhelming and over stimulating. It wasnt fair to subject that to children, people pushing through crowds and having no respect for one another. for a family of 4 it cost us 21 $ Best part was when we got in the car and both kids, who i am sure had the time of their lives, passed out and Graham and I went to tim hortons and got a coffee. As soon as we got home we put on christmas Vacation and Graham and I fell asleep! All and all it was a good time and we have some good family memories, im glad it wasnt raining, but those crowds! Those crowds are enough that I would never want to go back. although I most likely will, because The kids loved it, and once you get over the agrophobia it was a great night, I would much rather be standing there in the cold then in the rain.