Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Honda Celebration of Lights with the Kids

The time has come for one of Vancouver’s true signs of summer: Honda’s Celebration of Lights. Yup, it’s already that time of year when our sky is illuminated by a stunning display of fireworks timed perfectly with music. This past Saturday, Japan created a beautiful display, but don’t worry, there is more brilliance to come with the United Kingdom (Wednesday, August 2nd), and Canada celebrating 150 years on (Saturday, August 5th). Check out the Festival Guide for more info.


Some Things to Know

This 27th annual crowd-pleasing 25 minute event starts at 10:00 pm each night. Watch as fireworks explode off the barges in English Bay to make the skies come alive. You will want to keep tuned in to the accompanying music on LG 104.3 FM as this year holds a special musical treat for the ears.

In honor of Canada’s 150th birthday, each team’s display will incorporate an iconic Canadian song. Vancouverites were able to vote on the song options, which included classics from Leonard Cohen, Celine Dion, and the Tragically Hip as well as current chart toppers from Michael Buble, The Weeknd, and Justin Beiber to decide which hits would be featured.

After watching, don’t forget to vote for your favourite through the Honda Celebration of Light mobile app!

Where to Watch
English Bay Beach offers the best and most unobstructed view of the fireworks. Easily the busiest location to watch from, there are patios and ticketed areas available for reservations.

Despite the partially obstructed view, Second Beach offers a little more in the way of pre-event entertainment. The Park Stage will feature a line up of BC talent throughout the day. RE/MAX is offering a Family Zone open from 2:00pm-9:00pm. A great place to spend the day with family and friends before heading to the beach for the night lights.

My favorite place to enjoy the fireworks has always been Kitsilano Beach. It is a great way to spend the day as a family. You might enjoy swimming in the always fun Kits pool, or dipping your toes in the sea before sitting down to an unobstructed view of the night art.

Other places to watch the event include: Stanley Park Seawall (Facing English Bay of course), Burrard Bridge, Third Beach, Cypress Mountain, and Sunset Beach.

How to Get There

1. Public Transit: One of the preferred modes of transportation, event nights are scheduled to have more frequent Skytrain, Canada Line and bus services.

2. Biking: Many of the viewing spots can be easily accessed via bike lanes.

3. Driving: Though more convenient in theory, driving is the least recommended mode of transportation to these events. If you do plan on driving, be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to find parking as lots can fill up quickly. Also when leaving, remember to keep that blood pressure down. Remember to relax, be calm, be courteous, and most importantly be safe!

What to Bring

You don’t need anything but your eyes to enjoy this event; however, as the fireworks are timed to music, it is recommended to bring some type of device to tune in on.

A blanket to claim your spot, water to hydrate and sunscreen are great things to consider. Many of the locations will find a food truck or two, so bring money if you are likely to be tempted by whatever delicious creation is being delivered on four wheels!

When I go I like to pack a picnic, build some sand castles, laugh as someone gets buried to their shoulders. Bring a card game (my current favorite is Monopoly Deal), fly a kite, have a water relay. Blow up a beach ball and invite other families to join you in a game of volleyball. Also, it can get chilly by the water so you may want to consider wearing layers or a jacket depending on the forecast.

Remember, the Honda Celebration of Lights is just that—a celebration! Make it a day filled with memories, laughter and family fun in the sun! For information click here 

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