BC’s historic sites take an Old School approach

If you’re looking for a blast from the gold mining past, head to the province’s largest historic site, where yuletide carols, horse-drawn sleigh rides and snowy exploration in the Enchanted Forest reign during Barkerville’s Victorian Christmas celebrations, December 10 - 12. Here in the Cariboo Chilcotin, families can overnight in a heritage hotel or B&B, stroll through museum displays, snag a keepsake from one of the shops, enjoy homemade treats at Goldfield Bakery, and take in a festive performance by the Theatre Royal at the Methodist Church. www.barkerville.ca

Near Vancouver, a Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village, November 26 – January 1, relives life in the early 1900s with self-guided tours though historic buildings, vintage carousel rides, crafts for the little ones, visits with Father Christmas and seasonal evening and weekend performances along the village streets. www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

Point your compass east, and make your way to Fort Steele Heritage Town in the Kootenay Rockies. This turn-of-the-century town brings out teams of Clydesdales each Sunday, December through January, during their seasonal Sleigh Ride Days. Is there anything better than the scenic view from the sleds? Maybe a post-ride bonfire and steaming mugs of hot chocolate topped with toasty marshmallows. www.FortSteele.ca

On Vancouver Island, Discover the Past will have you lacing up for historically haunted walking tours of Victoria throughout the month of December. Their favoured Ghosts of Christmas Past excursions follow in the footsteps of the infamous, with experts guiding enthusiasts through the legends and lore of BC’s ethereal city. Post walk, head to the castle — Craigdarroch Castle, more specifically. At this 1890s Victorian mansion, and former home to a wealthy coal baron, guests can admire the seasonal finery as they warm fingers and toes next to a crackling fire. Feeling festive? Deck the halls with musical performances, rousing entertainment and storytelling in the castle’s dance hall. www.discoverthepast.com; www.thecastle.ca