2015 Guide to the Honda Celebration of Light

Sparks will fly as the 2015 Honda Celebration of Light returns to Vancouver this summer for its 25th year, welcoming world-class pyrotechnic teams from China on July 25, Brazil on July 29 and Canada on August 1. 
 

But beyond just the three nights of fireworks, the 2015 edition of the free public event is bursting with all-ages activities and brand new features. “It’s more than just twenty-five minutes of lights in the sky at 10 o’clock—it’s a community and cultural festival with music, food, entertainment, giveaways and all kinds of things happening at English Bay and Sunset Beach,” says Heather Sharpe, Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society producer.
 

New this year is the Clearly Spectacle Lounge at English Bay, a laid-back hosting experience that provides the closest view of the fireworks, as well as the Stanley Park Brewing Bistro at Sunset Beach. This family-friendly, licensed area offers front row access to the LG 104.3 SHOREFEST Sunset Beach stage, featuring free performances at 2 p.m. each day. The SHOREFEST Keg Lounge stage—which offers a perennially sold-out V.I.P. viewing experience—will also host Canadian rock legends Platinum Blonde on July 25, Randy Bachman on July 29 and Chilliwack on August 1 beginning at 7:30 p.m. each night.  
 

Yet another viewing option is the YVR Observation Deck, a reserved bleacher-style seating area at English Bay replete with all-new private Business Class Cabanas for discerning guests.
 

Heather Owen, vice chair of the Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society, says the ticketed areas were implemented in response to consumer demand. “It’s a way to guarantee a view of the fireworks, and bring out a different demographic that doesn’t like the crowds, or just wants to have a more relaxed experience.” 
 

For the second consecutive year, the festival has partnered with TicketLeader, a full-service ticketing centre based in Vancouver, which will also provide on-site ticketing staff for all three nights of fireworks. “With so much fantastic programming this year, my team is just really thrilled to be a part of the festival,” says Ashley Holm, ticketing manager at TicketLeader.
 

The public is encouraged to visit www.hondacelebrationoflight.com for the most up-to-date information, and to purchase tickets for reserved seating areas.