{"id":62985,"date":"2025-12-18T11:54:38","date_gmt":"2025-12-18T19:54:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bcaletrail.ca\/?p=62985"},"modified":"2025-12-18T11:54:38","modified_gmt":"2025-12-18T19:54:38","slug":"new-west-december-weekend-getaway","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bcaletrail.ca\/new-west-december-weekend-getaway\/","title":{"rendered":"24 Hours in New Westminster: A December Weekend Getaway"},"content":{"rendered":"

Discover New Westminster’s Festive Craft Beer Scene This Holiday Season<\/strong><\/p>\n

This winter, New Westminster offers the perfect blend of relaxed seasonal charm and craft beer culture. Tucked along the Fraser River, BC’s original capital city transforms into a cozy holiday destination where twinkling lights meet award-winning brews, and a walkable downtown connects you to some of the region’s most exciting sips and bites.<\/p>\n

New West’s craft beer scene has quietly become one of the Lower Mainland’s hidden gems. Discover the innovative pours at Steel & Oak Brewing, Squamish-born Howe Sound Brewing’s beloved taphouse, plus the added bonus of festive light displays and riverside views just steps away.<\/p>\n

But this isn’t just about great beer. This 24-hour itinerary weaves together holiday light installations, waterfront walks, nostalgic arcade games, and local artisan markets perfect for last-minute handmade gifts. The beauty of New Westminster? Everything’s walkable. Check into a waterfront hotel, and within minutes you can be sampling craft brews, strolling through illuminated parks, or browsing goods from local makers\u2014all without fighting for parking or battling holiday crowds.<\/p>\n

Ready to experience New West’s festive side? Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in BC’s most underrated holiday destination. Tay Braithwaite (@tay.braithwaite) recently tested out our itinerary; you can\u00a0watch the highlight reel from her stay here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Westminster Pier Park in New Westminster, BC (photo: Van Foodies)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Day One<\/b><\/h3>\n

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Inn at the Quay<\/b><\/h4>\n

900 Quayside Dr, New Westminster<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Kick off your holiday escape by checking in at<\/span> Inn at the Quay<\/a>, New Westminster\u2019s beloved waterfront hotel. Conveniently located, it offers serene river views and direct access to the boardwalk, making it easy to explore New Westminster\u2019s seasonal sights on foot.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Inn At the Quay in New Westminster, BC (photo: Taylor Braithwaite)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Howe Sound Taphouse & Kitchen<\/h4>\n

411 Columbia St, New Westminster<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Next, head to <\/span>Howe Sound Taphouse & Kitchen<\/a>, a favourite known for its award-winning craft beer. Founded in Squamish in 1996, Howe Sound Brewing brings its classic lineup and comforting pub bites to its New West outpost. It\u2019s a welcoming place to warm up, unwind, and kick off the weekend. Time it right, and you\u2019ll catch happy hour, daily from 3\u20136 pm.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Howe Sound Inn Taphouse & Kitchen in New Westminster, BC (photo: Taylor Braithwaite)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Bright in the Park<\/h4>\n

Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave, New Westminster<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Bundle up and head to <\/span>Bright in the Park<\/a>, a brand-new holiday light display transforming Tipperary Park into a glowing winter wonderland. Located beside City Hall, illuminated pathways and shimmering installations make for a stunning winter walk. Plus, be sure to snap a pic at one of many Instagram-worthy photo ops!<\/span><\/p>\n

*The display runs until January 4, 2026.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

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Bright in the Park in New Westminster, BC (photo: Taylor Braithwaite)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Steel & Oak Brewing<\/h4>\n

1319 3rd Ave, New Westminster<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Then, you\u2019re off to <\/span>Steel & Oak Brewing<\/a>, a local favourite known for its thoughtful approach to craft beer. Drawing from both North American and German brewing styles, the lineup balances familiar classics with fresh, innovative pours. Their new food truck, open seven days a week, makes it an ideal stop for dinner and drinks.<\/span><\/p>\n