Is Boxing Day shopping still a thing in Vancouver? The answer is …

It used to be Boxing Day sales meant big lineups and big savings on coveted products, especially electronics. Retailers used the sales to move items not sold before Christmas and customers would line up (sometimes overnight!) to snap up something they wanted at a steep discount.

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But with much earlier Black Friday sales and a move to online, is Boxing Day shopping still a thing in Metro Vancouver? Here’s a look at what’s happening around the area (check back for updates):

The view from downtown Vancouver: A timeline

Our Arts & Life editor, Aleesha Harris, is in downtown Vancouver hunting down some Boxing Day bargains. Here’s a timeline of her shop so far:

8:30 a.m.: It’s pretty quiet at Pacific Centre Mall:

By 9 a.m., it wasn’t much busier on the streets downtown:

10 a.m.: She’s found the shoppers … they are at Lululemon on Robson Street.

Going to Vancouver airport or McArthurGlen today? Read this

The Vancouver airport is advising travellers — and shoppers — to expect heavy traffic and possible delays on Boxing Day.

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Traffic alert: we are anticipating increased vehicle traffic to and from the airport today. This is due to the annual Boxing Day sale at the nearby McArthurGlen. We encourage those flying from YVR or picking someone up from the airport to take Canada Line. pic.twitter.com/DPDut53Smq

— YVR (@yvrairport) December 26, 2024

Here are some tips from YVR for those headed to or from the airport and mall today:

• If you’re flying or picking someone up at the airport, you’re encouraged to use Canada Line. If you have to drive, leave early and have a plan for parking ahead of time. Pre-booking can be done at yvr.ca/parking.

• Boxing Day shoppers are also urged to take Canada Line. McArthurGlen is steps away from Canada Line’s Templeton Station. Drivers are warned to expect delays getting to and from the designer outlet centre.

What’s open and what’s closed today?

After many retailers closed their brick-and-mortar stores on Christmas Day, doors are open again for customers to shop Boxing-Day prices. HERE’S A LIST of what’s open (and still closed) today.

Looking for some good deals online?

Our Shopping Essentials team has compiled the best Boxing Day sales in Canada overall, and on Amazon in particular.

You can read the lists HERE and HERE.

3 best tips to make the most of Boxing Day shopping

Boxing Day has long been synonymous with incredible sales and bargain hunting, and a prime opportunity to grab items at significantly reduced prices. However, navigating these sales requires a strategic approach to ensure you’re getting the best deals without falling into the common traps.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS from Peta Wales, President and CEO of the Credit Counselling Society, and a weekly personal finance columnist with The Province.

Check back throughout the day for updates.

vanweb@postmedia.com

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Source: vancouversun.com