North Vancouver's beloved Canyon Lights event at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park was for many a light at the end of the tunnel in the face of COVID-19 restrictions. The postponed festivities were slated to resume Dec. 8, however instead the organizers are arranging for refunds for ticketholders after announcing the full cancellation of the event.
Considered "one of the most spectacular holiday lights displays in the world," Canyon Lights will remain dark for the 2020 holiday season.
After the announcement Monday afternoon by B.C. provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry extending the current restrictions on gatherings, events, and seasonal events, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park issued the following statement:
"Unfortunately, due to the Provincial Health Authority’s announcement this afternoon, we will not be moving forward with Canyon Lights operations this holiday season."
As an alternative, guests looking to walk the storied bridge and through the trees can do so between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. while adhering to the venue's COVID-19 safety measures and requirements.
Those with tickets for Canyon Lights are asked to send an email to [email protected] with their contact phone number and shopping cart number.
"A Guest Services representative will be in contact within 72 hours. As you can imagine, we are currently receiving higher than normal email and call volumes," explain organizers, adding: "Thank you for your patience and understanding during this challenging time."
Other seasonal events in Vancouver cancelled
The Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden and the Bright Nights Stanley Park Christmas Train announced Monday night they are both pulling the plug on their planned 2020 festivities.
However, Dr. Henry did create an exception to the extended orders to include some kinds of drive-through or drive-to events.
Currently, in the Lower Mainland, examples of drive-through holiday light events include WinterLights at the PNE grounds in Vancouver and Glow in Langley. Glow has resumed as of Dec. 8, and WinterLights begins Dec. 11.
With a file from Megan Lalonde
