Surrey’s free Bear Creek Lights walk-through opens tonight, with 60,000 visitors expected

Surrey’s popular Bear Creek Lights returns for its 14th year tonight, Friday, Nov. 6, as a walk-through event running until Nov. 20. City of Surrey event planners say this year’s display is the largest yet, with 25 per cent more light displays, an expanded walking route and more ways for visitors to experience Bear Creek Park after dark. Admission is free.

Timed-entry tickets can be reserved at surrey.ca/bearcreeklights (https://www.surrey.ca/parks-recreation/parks/park-programs/bear-creek-lights), or by calling 604-501-5100. Last year’s event drew close to 60,000 visitors for photo opportunities, including a 40-foot Starlight Tunnel and Giant Bear. It also featured guided nature walks, storytelling, live performances on select nights and food trucks.

Entry times are offered every 30 minutes from 5 to 9 p.m., seven days a week. Drop-in visits are limited, especially on weekends. Guest parking is off 88 Avenue, and admission check-in is at the spray park entrance, just south of the parking lot at Bear Creek Park, 13750 88 Ave., Surrey. The event runs rain or shine but will be closed Wednesday, Nov. 11, for Remembrance Day.

“Bear Creek Lights has become a favourite Surrey tradition and one of our most popular seasonal park events,” said Laurie Cavan, the city’s general manager of parks, recreation and culture. She said free admission makes it an accessible way for families and friends to enjoy the lights together before the holidays. With more than 60,000 visitors last year, she strongly recommends booking tickets in advance.