Canada Day celebrations return to North Vancouver waterfront alongside World Cup fan zone
Rotary Club event runs 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 1 near Polygon Gallery; 30,000 expected amid Canada Soccer House at Shipyards.
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Canada Day is returning to North Vancouver's waterfront on July 1 with a full day of family-friendly festivities—and this year, the celebration will unfold alongside the FIFA World Cup's Canada Soccer House just across the Shipyards.
The Rotary Club of Lions Gate is hosting the event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., running near the Polygon Gallery, Cates Dock, and the foot of Lonsdale. Unlike previous years when celebrations spread across the Shipyards, this year's relocation accommodates the World Cup activation happening simultaneously.
"We're excited. Routinely we see 30,000 people that typically come to this area, so it's quite a significant event," said Nick Bellemy of the Rotary Club. The Canada Day event has been running strong for roughly 35 years.
The JP Fell Pipe Band will kick off festivities. Two stages will host entertainment throughout the day featuring soul/R&B singer-songwriter Hayley Wallis, Deep Cove's Melanie Dekker (who will also host), Tiller's Folly, and more. Attendees can expect balloon artists, youth artist pop-ups, and community stalls highlighting non-profits.
Family-friendly games and activities will run throughout the day. The Royal Canadian Navy may make an appearance, Bellemy said. Food trucks and refreshments will be on-site, and alcoholic beverages are available steps away inside Canada Soccer House.
Bellemy expects high traffic from both the World Cup watch party and the potential Navy visit. "It's going to be the place to be on Canada Day on the North Shore," he said. "It's about making sure that the community has a place to come out and celebrate with everyone."
When: July 1, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver Cost: Free. No registration required