Make the Most of the Celebration of Light Fireworks in Vancouver

One of Vancouver’s premier summer events is just around the corner. This year, the Honda Celebration of Light (HCOL) will gather thousands to English Bay Beach for three nights of unforgettable fireworks displays from all over Canada.

What originally started as the "Symphony of Fire," HCOL is the city's annual offshore musical fireworks competition, first held in the summer of 1980, and is known as the longest-running display of its kind in the world.

Canadian Fireworks

This year, instead of the usual international competition, where different nations compete on separate nights for fireworks supremacy, each of the three HCOL nights in 2025 will be orchestrated by teams from across Canada representing their provinces proudly.

Team Midnight Sun (Yukon) – Saturday, July 19

The 2022 HCOL Champions are an award-winning team (representing Canada at the time) of volunteer pyrotechnicians committed to their unique and imaginative fireworks displays.

Team Royal Pyrotechnie (Quebec) – Wednesday, July 23

These celestial artisans have been presenting more than 500 fireworks shows each year and are known for distributing both family and professional fireworks from coast to coast since 1996.

Team Fireworks FX (Nova Scotia) – Saturday, July 26

Witness one of Canada's leading fireworks companies, known for lighting up the skies across Canada, the Caribbean, and around the world—from Japan to Turkmenistan and other exotic locations.

Fireworks Day

Your Celebration of Light enjoyment will depend highly on your view of the fireworks. Here are a few of the top choices to watch them:

English Bay Beach – This is by far the most popular viewing location, so arrive early.

Vanier Park – A spacious and scenic are for those looking to stay in Kitsilano.

Kitsilano Beach – Find a more relaxed atmosphere and vibe that's good for groups.

Burrard Bridge – Here's your ideal spot for capturing great photos of the fireworks.

Also, keep in mind the nightly HCOL festival schedule (and plan accordingly):

2pm – Honda Activation (at Denman and Davie) and food trucks open

6:30pm – Royal Canadian Air Force's Snowbirds 43 Air Demonstration Squadron show begins (July 19 & 23 only)

10pm – Electric Drone Show

10:15pm – Fireworks show begins

Before the Fireworks

Vancouver's annual three-night fireworks celebration is practically a summer ritual and tradition for both locals and visitors. For maximum enjoyment, spend the day exploring the historic West End and its surrounding downtown areas before heading to your viewing spot.

Here are some fun suggestions and activities:

• Take a morning walk or bike ride along the Seawall

• Go shopping on Robson Street

• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery for some culture

• Check out Davie Village's vibrant neighbourhood

• Grab dinner and drinks at Cactus Club's English Bay location (right on the beach) and treat yourself to a signature Bellini!

• End your day by exploring English Bay before securing a spot on the beach to watch the fireworks

Tips & Getting There

With thousands of spectators expected to arrive each night throughout the day to see the fireworks, your best bet to avoid disappointment is to arrive early (ideally by 4-5pm) to claim and reserve a good spot.

Please use public transit, walk, or bike, as parking is limited and driving in the area after the fireworks is difficult due to the big crowds. Transit, including buses and SkyTrain service, will be increased on HCOL nights to meet the demand.

Be patient and take your time walking to your stops, stations, or wherever you're headed. Also, be aware of road closures and consult the HCOL's festival guide for more info.

If you're going to spend hours at the beach or outside, bring a blanket, snacks, water, layers of clothing, plenty of sunscreen, and anything else you might need to have a fun and safe time.