North Vancouver's waterfront has been transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and outdoor fireplaces.
While festive events can’t go ahead this holiday season as planned, with provincial health restrictions in place to reduce COVID-19 transmission, residents can still take a stroll through the magical Spirit of the Season display at The Shipyards.
“Families and households are welcome to enjoy our warm and elegant holiday light display at The Shipyards while respecting all PHO restrictions,” said Stephanie Smiley, city communications officer.
“There are twinkling lights, festive music, and Christmas trees families can enjoy daily.”
Visitors can expect to see tree lights at Wallace Mews and 500 feet of festoon lighting along the Wallace Mews walkway leading to Burrard Dry Dock.
The display also includes tree lights in front of Pier7 restaurant, lights along the bridge on the Spirit Trail, and LED Pars attached to various parts of The Shipyards Crane.
Holiday lights will be shining brightly throughout Shipyard Commons, and seasonal music will be playing to keep festive spirits high.
Plus, there are three fire pits in the Commons with Adirondack seating, bistro tables, chairs, and picnic tables adorned with lanterns. Smiley said an extra three fire pits had also been ordered to add to the area.
The city’s stunning 40 foot Christmas tree is part of the display, glowing brightly for all to see. Instead of the usual tree lighting ceremony, the city filmed Mayor Linda Buchanan counting down to turn the twinkling lights on and posted a video to social media on Dec. 1 to share the moment with the community.
The city has also cancelled its annual Shipyards Christmas market and cannot plan any other seasonal events because of the PHO restrictions.
The Spirit of the Season lights, sponsored by Seaspan and PEAK Technologies, will add festive cheer to The Shipyards until Jan. 4 from sunset onwards.
Elisia Seeber is the North Shore News’ Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
