Comments on: The Woodward’s Christmas Windows

By: Ruth Hasman

Ruth Hasman — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 16:05:18 +0000

In reply to Eve Lazarus. Do you know if Woodward’s had an 8 foot giraffe as a display in toy department. I have a picture of him & asked to repair him

By: N Elmer

N Elmer — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 02:43:05 +0000

Not only were the windows decorated but one elevator was made to look like a chimney and it took you up to the sixth floor to see Santa. After making stops at different floors with the doors opening to see displays,and a walk through a animated forest before santa

By: Bill Allman

Bill Allman — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 15:14:18 +0000

In reply to Glenda. As did I! Especially the live reindeer that they brought in every year. Such a delight for a child (and my parents loved them too). I once got to walk Rudolph in the outdoor mall before school!

By: Elizabeth

Elizabeth — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 22:17:10 +0000

I have the fondest memories of my grandfather bringing me Downtown to see the Woodward Christmas set up, I was able to take my oldest when he was a baby. I’m going to have to travel down with my youngest to check these out.

By: Glenda

Glenda — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 18:03:12 +0000

Not only was the windows all dressed up but the woodwards on 41st and Cambie (Oakridge) there was the Santa shack which I enjoyed very much through your my childhood!

By: Deb Fenske

Deb Fenske — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 02:59:17 +0000

Extra special memories for me because there is a large picture of a candy striper and it’s me. I have tried to track it down to no avail.

By: john smith

john smith — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 09:12:11 +0000

Years ago, I clearly remember a blind man and his partner walking from window to window outside Woodward. The partner was describing each scene to him, and it was obvious that although he couldn’t see it, he enjoyed it very much. A precious Christmas souvenir! It was so interesting to hear the news of David Rowland!

By: Renee Ron

Renee Ron — Fri, 25 Dec 2020 16:53:07 +0000

I remember one year Woodward’s filled their main corner display window with thousands of honey bees. You could see them working and building their honeycombs. It was a fascinating educational experience for city kids and adults alike.

By: Debbie Wiebe

Debbie Wiebe — Mon, 23 Dec 2019 22:12:02 +0000

Thanks for this story Eve. I have always loved the Woodward’s Christmas window scenes. I am so glad they have been kept for all to enjoy. Woodwards was a favourite store of mine. Mom & I taking the long bus ride downtown to shop at $1.49 day. The elevator attendants calling out the floors and the grocery department. I can still smell the ground coffee!!
All the best to you this season and New Year!

By: Joanne Haveman

Joanne Haveman — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 21:01:21 +0000

So enjoyed the Rowland/Christmas story.
Love your stories, and have been watching for a post.
Season’s greetings

By: Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 18:41:07 +0000

Years ago I vividly recall a blind man and his companion going from window to window outside Woodwards. The companion was describing each scene for him and it was clear that he was enjoying it all immensely, despite not being able to see. Lovely Christmas memory! Fascinating to hear about David Rowland!

By: Doug Parks

Doug Parks — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 16:49:42 +0000

Thank you Mr Rowland and Woodwards. The Christmas windows at Woodwards were not only a childs delight (adults also) but they were free.
Of all the department stores that have disappeared Woodwards is the one I miss the most. Pretty sure Ive still got a well worn Woodwards credit card somewhere. When we went shopping for anything ,especially furniture Woodwards usually got the sale.
They cashed CP Transport pay checks the floor floor was awesome.
The Christmas window displays were always a treat and if my memory serves me they were viewed from outside on Hastings or Abbot Sts.
Cold night out shopping, spend a long time looking at the wonderful windows. Go inside to warm up and spend some money.