Imagine strolling through a picture-perfect town decked out in thousands of twinkling Christmas lights, with festive music drifting through the streets, snowflakes falling overhead and Santa Claus waiting just around the corner. It sounds like something straight out of a holiday movie, and at Martini Town in Langley, that’s exactly the idea.
From November 20 to December 31, the normally closed film backlot will once again welcome visitors for Merry & Bright, an immersive holiday celebration that brings the charm of Christmas movies to life.
Now in its fourth year, the popular event is getting a festive makeover for 2026, with new decorations, expanded entertainment, more holiday characters and a revamped Christmas market.
Photo by Ian HarlandA Little Hollywood Magic In The Fraser Valley
Located at Martini Film Studios, Martini Town is no ordinary small town. It’s a collection of elaborate outdoor sets used in dozens of television shows, movies and commercials, including the heartwarming Christmas productions that have become a holiday viewing tradition.
The backlot features everything from a classic movie theatre and retro diner to a courthouse, coffee shop, town square and a New York-inspired street lined with brownstone buildings.
For most of the year, the streets belong to actors, cameras and film crews. But once a year, the gates open to the public, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of BC’s thriving film industry, complete with a generous helping of Christmas cheer.
This year’s transformation includes redesigned holiday window displays, new movie-inspired decorations and a towering 30-foot Christmas tree constructed entirely from stacked presents.
A new silent cinema experience tucked into an alley will add a nostalgic nod to the town’s cinematic roots, while artificial snow will give visitors the chance to experience a picture-perfect winter scene, regardless of what Mother Nature has planned.
Music, Mischief & A Visit From Santa
There’s more happening on Martini Town’s streets than simply admiring the decorations.
The courthouse steps will serve as a central stage for live holiday performances, featuring a rotating lineup of local musicians and entertainers. Among the performers is Vancouver-based trio The Dimes, returning to help set the festive mood.
Visitors can also expect a few familiar Christmas characters wandering through town. The mischievous Green Christmas Grouch returns throughout the season, while Ebenezer Scrooge will make appearances on Friday evenings.
Of course, Santa Claus will be on hand to greet families in the town gazebo until December 23, with one of his helpful elves ready to assist with photos. Visitors should bring their own cameras or phones to capture the moment.
And although the celebrations take place outdoors, a large, clear-roofed tent over Town Square will provide shelter from the West Coast’s famously unpredictable winter weather.
Photo by Ian HarlandA Christmas Market Worth Exploring
Holiday shopping is part of the experience, too.
This year’s expanded Market Lane will feature approximately 20 vendors, with a combination of returning and rotating artisans offering handmade gifts, seasonal treasures and other unique finds.
The market will be housed in a heated, enclosed tent, making it an inviting place to browse while warming up between outdoor activities.
Visitors can also turn their outing into dinner and a show, thanks to an expanded selection of food and beverages.
New additions include sushi tacos from Taco Nori and Mediterranean-inspired wraps and fries from Mediterranean Grill. Returning favourites include Texas Smoke BBQ, Hot Mini Donuts, Sticky’s Candy and Bar Down Bakery.
For those looking for something festive to sip, this year’s offerings will also include local beer and cider from Barnside Brewing and Fraser Valley Cider, along with seasonal classics such as mulled wine and spiked hot chocolate at The Martini Cafe.
And with its glowing storefronts, decorated streets and carefully crafted movie sets, Martini Town offers plenty of opportunities to snap a Christmas-card-worthy photograph along the way.
Beyond the decorations and entertainment, the event also gives back to the community. A portion of the proceeds from every ticket sold will support the Langley Food Bank.
Photo by Ian HarlandPlan Your Visit
Merry & Bright runs on select dates from November 20 through December 31, 2026, with evening hours from 3 to 10 p.m. The event is closed on Christmas Day.
Admission is $24 for adults, $20 for seniors, $18 for youth aged 13 to 17 and $12 for children aged six to 12, plus GST. Children five and under enter free.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance for a specific entry time, and there are no ticket sales at the gate. Once inside, guests can stay until closing, allowing plenty of time to wander, shop and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Visitors should dress warmly and prepare for the weather, as much of the experience takes place outdoors. Comfortable footwear is also a good idea for exploring the backlot streets.
For event dates, entertainment schedules and tickets, visit merrybright.ca.
Whether you’re a devoted Christmas movie fan, looking for a family outing or simply hoping to soak up some holiday spirit, Martini Town offers a chance to step away from the everyday and into a little big-screen magic.
And for once, you don’t have to wait until the movie ends to wish you could visit the town on screen.
Photo by Ian Harland
