2026 dates not confirmed yet. Merridale has not announced its 2026 Christmas Light-Up dates yet. The details below are from 2025. We’ll update this page as soon as the 2026 details are announced.
About 45 minutes north of Victoria in the Cowichan Valley, Merridale Cidery & Distillery turns its farm into a Christmas village every holiday season. The courtyard fills with lights, a 30-foot tree takes centre stage, and the lights stretch out into the orchard. It’s free to walk through, and there’s mulled cider at the farmhouse.
In 2025 the light-up ran from November 15 to January 5. Merridale posts its 2026 season and events at merridale.ca.
It’s an easy stop on the way to the Ladysmith Festival of Lights.
Merridale at Christmas: Quick Facts
| Season | Mid-November to early January (November 15 to January 5 in 2025) |
| Light display | Free, nightly |
| Location | Merridale Cidery & Distillery, 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill |
| Extras | Santa photos on December weekends, festive dining at the Farmhouse Eatery, tastings and a farm store |
| Phone | 250-743-4293 |
What to Do
- Walk the lights: the courtyard and orchard are lit every evening of the season.
- Santa photos: Santa visits on weekends in December. These are ticketed, so book ahead.
- Eat: the Farmhouse Eatery serves holiday meals, including a daily Christmas turkey dinner.
- Shop: the farm store stocks Merridale ciders, spirits and Merridale Makes preserves, good for gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Merridale Christmas light display free?
Yes. Walking through the lights is free.
How far is Merridale from Victoria?
About 45 minutes north, in Cobble Hill in the Cowichan Valley.
Part of: Victoria Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas on Vancouver Island 2026
