The retro diner is bathed in the soft afternoon light, its neon sign tantalizing me with burgers and fries that they probably don’t serve. Nearby, a snow machine sends flurries across the street, and food trucks line a space in front of an old-style gasoline station. A small crowd queues patiently outside a coffee shop, steaming cups in hand. Toy stores with window displays that look almost alive and a suburban house with a perfectly frosted roof blur the line between real and set, but the illusion works: Martini Town feels like a tiny city preparing for Christmas.
Paolo hovers quietly beside his mom, Ate Sheila, who is already snapping photos of everything, laughing and talking as if she’s been waiting years to show us this world. We start with the classic shots in front of the giant Christmas tree and the fake house, letting the kitschy charm wrap around us. Families stroll past, friends shout greetings, and for a moment, the chill in the afternoon air melts into a warm, cozy, magical feeling. Even Ate Lita, who is usually reserved, surprisingly asks for a few photos of her own, clearly delighting in the seasonal charm.
Martini Town, tucked in Langley Township, is a seasonal holiday attraction designed to evoke a picture-perfect winter town. Each year, it transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, decorated storefronts, retro diners, and artificial snow. The sets are carefully curated to create an immersive experience, and many were designed and built by talented local film crews. Since 2020, Martini Town has also served as a backdrop for numerous TV series, movies, and commercials, bringing essential work to the community. Some shops are real, serving hot drinks and snacks, while others exist purely as part of the whimsical backdrop. The “Merry and Bright” event, held annually, draws families, friends, and couples to stroll the streets, take photos, enjoy live music, and soak up the holiday spirit. It’s a blend of festive kitsch and genuine cheer, and our family drives there on a day trip from Vancouver to meet with old friends.
It has been more than a decade since we first met Ate Sheila and Paolo. Back then, they were still adjusting to life in Canada, and we caught up with them at Capilano during our first Vancouver visit in 2012. Now, seeing them again in Langley Township, it’s clear how much this place has become home. Paolo stays quietly by his mom’s side, and Ate Sheila’s animated energy fills the air just as it always had. Joseph, too, has changed: once another visitor, he’s now almost a local host, guiding us through the wintery kitsch with a familiarity he didn’t have before.
After wandering through the streets, we sit inside a tent to warm ourselves and share slices of pizza and enjoy the usual adult conversations—work permits, house hunting, and other places to explore. Time passes and as dusk settles, the town’s lights flicker on, bathing the streets in a warm, festive glow. A trio of women in sparkling Santa outfits sing Christmas tunes in front of the fake courthouse, while a young couple, dressed like they’re straight out of prom, pose for a photoshoot against the miniature storefronts. We join in the laughter around the snow machine, letting artificial flakes swirl over us as we record snippets of the merriment.
There’s no need for rumination. There are no weighty thoughts about the past or future. For a brief stretch of time, we are simply part of the story again: sharing moments with people who had once been part of our lives, converging under the glow of lights and the whimsy of a winter wonderland that existed entirely by design. It’s kitschy, it’s playful, and it’s unmistakably, warmly Christmas.
Merry & Bright at Martini Town Travel Basics
Timing
- The “Merry and Bright” event typically runs from late November through the end of December (November 21 – December 31 in 2025).
- Afternoon to early evening is ideal: you can catch the daylight for photos, then stay to enjoy the town as the lights come on at dusk.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, which can get busy with families.
Access
- Martini Town is located in Langley Township, Metro Vancouver. The easiest way is by car: the site offers parking nearby.
- Martini Town isn’t directly accessible by bus. The nearest stop is at Fraser Highway and 276 Street (serviced by the 503 bus). From there, take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft for the short 5-minute ride. Walking is not recommended as there are no sidewalks on 272 Street.
Admission
- Ticket prices are as follows (including Goods and Services Tax):
- Adults (18+): CAD 25.20
- Youth (13–17): CAD 18.90
- Children (6–12): CAD 12.60
- Children under 6: Free
- Seniors (65+): CAD 21.00
- Tickets come with a specific entry time, but once you arrive, you can stay as long as you like.
- There are no gate sales: all tickets must be purchased online in advance for your entire party.
- Some activities, food, or photo ops may have additional costs, so it’s a good idea to bring extra cash or cards for snacks and souvenirs.
Activities
- Take pictures with the giant Christmas tree, fake suburban house, miniature storefronts, and festive sets.
- Have fun with the snow machine. Stand in the flurries and take playful videos or photos.
- Watch seasonal performers, such as Santa singers, carolers, or themed photo shoots.
- Explore the curated town, peek into real vs. set shops, and soak up the festive vibe.
Food
- On-site food trucks offer snacks, such as hotdogs, burgers, tacos, and pizzas.
- While the diner storefront is fake, the café building is real and does sell hot drinks.
For the latest details on dates, tickets, and events, visit the official Martini Town website.
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