VANCOUVER — July 18, 2024 – The much-anticipated Honda Celebration of Light, the world’s largest fireworks competition, returns to Vancouver this weekend, promising to illuminate the city’s skyline and draw thousands of residents and visitors to the West End and Kits Point.
“Vancouver’s summer season wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Honda Celebration of Light where our city comes alive with music, culture, and spirit from around the globe,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “I can’t wait to join in the excitement and see our skies light up with amazing shapes, colors, and music!”
Schedule and Participants
This year’s competition features fireworks displays from three countries over three evenings:
- Saturday, July 20: Portugal
- Wednesday, July 24: Malaysia
- Saturday, July 27: United Kingdom
Event Coordination and Safety
The City of Vancouver is collaborating with the Park Board, Vancouver Police Department, and Vancouver Emergency Management Agency to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Traffic Impacts and Road Closures
Various road closures will be in effect, causing traffic disruptions in downtown, the West End, Stanley Park, and Kitsilano. Attendees are encouraged to walk, bike, or take public transit.
- Wednesday, July 17 – Friday, July 19
- Full road closure for event preparations on Burnaby St from Beach Ave to Bidwell St.
- Event Days (July 20, 24, 27)
- 9 am to 6 pm: Traffic controls in effect
- Periodic traffic control for load-in on Beach Ave, Pacific to Davie
- Beach Ave closed to traffic, bike lane detour from 5 pm to midnight
- 6 pm to 11 pm: Public vehicle access restricted west of Pipeline Road in Stanley Park
- 6 pm to midnight: Full road closures on Beach/Pacific St from Stanley Park to Thurlow, Davie St from Denman to Burrard, and Denman St from Alberni to Beach
- 9 am to 6 pm: Traffic controls in effect
Local Traffic Access Points:
- Burnaby St at Thurlow St
- Nelson St at Thurlow St
- Denman St at Alberni St
Vehicle access in the West End and Kits Point event areas will be limited to residents with a local parking decal or vehicle registration displaying a local neighbourhood address.
Transit Reroutes
Bus routes #2, #5, #6, and #23 will be rerouted west of Burrard St. For specific changes or disruptions, visit translink.ca/alerts.
Tips for Attendees
- Stay Safe in Hot Weather: Find tips at vancouver.ca/hotweather.
- Avoid High-Tide Areas: Look for fireworks viewing area signs on the beach.
- Respect Fire Bans: No smoking, open fires, or barbecues in Vancouver parks.
- Observe Alcohol Regulations: Drinking alcohol is not permitted at Sunset Beach, English Bay, and Third Beach. No glass beverage bottles or containers are allowed on parks and beaches.
- Pack-In, Pack-Out: Attendees are asked to take waste with them and dispose of it at home.
- Keep Noise to a Minimum: Be considerate when leaving the event.
Watching from the Water
- Follow safe boating guidelines and carry a boating license.
- Watch the fireworks at a safe distance without interfering with larger vessels.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol on the water.
Pet Safety
Fireworks and large crowds can be frightening for animals. Leave pets at home or ensure they are wearing proper identification. To report a lost dog, call Animal Services by dialing 3-1-1.
Getting to and from the Event
- Plan ahead and expect delays.
- Follow all detours and abide by no parking signs.
- For live updates, follow #VanTraffic on social media or check traffic conditions via the city’s traffic cameras.
Social Media for Live Updates:
Contact Information
For more details, download the Van311 app or visit the City of Vancouver’s website for further updates and information on the Honda Celebration of Light.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on July 19, 2024.
