Canada: It looks a lot like Christmas in Grouse, British Columbia

If palm trees and sunshine don’t put you in the holiday spirit, Grouse Mountain might.

The year-round Canadian playground is just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, British Columbia.

Upon arrival, visitors are whisked to the 3,700-foot summit in bright red Skyride gondolas that will be decorated with antlers and a red nose as part of the resort’s Reindeer Games theme.

The Peak of Christmas festival runs Nov. 24 to Dec. 24 and includes interacting with real reindeer in a natural habitat, caroling during sleigh rides through the snowy woods and ice skating on an 8,000-square-foot pond. Santa will be in residence at his rink-side workshop to visit with the kids.

When it’s time to move indoors, hot chocolate awaits in the Chalet, where the theater will show reindeer-themed movies. Choral groups will also entertain. Three dining choices await, including Altitudes Bistro, which overlooks the city of Vancouver.

The various Peak of Christmas activities are included with the purchase of a Skyride Alpine Experience ticket. Prices range from about $14 for children ages 5-12 to about $40 for adults ages 19-64.

Skiing is available at an extra charge; adult lift tickets start about $58 a day. The season generally runs from November into May.

Grouse Mountain is 9 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Follow us on Twitter @latimestravel and like us on Facebook