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New free holiday event offers dazzling light displays and live music on Vancouver waterfront

Fire performances, enchanting live opera, hot drinks, and over 250 musicians await you at this free winter event.
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Liven Up promises to bedazzle Coal Harbour with festive cheer and entertainment along the walk from Canada Place to Cardero Park in December 2023.

Want to have some magical moments on Vancouver's seawall?

A new family-friendly event will bring lighting installations, artists, musicians, and storytellers to the city's waterfront every weekend this December. 

Liven Up promises to bedazzle Coal Harbour with festive cheer and entertainment along the walk from Canada Place to Cardero Park on Fridays and Saturdays from Dec. 1 to 30 from 5 to 10 p.m. 

Some of the light installations near Canada Place include "Davie the Grizzly Bear" and a giant one that reads, "Vancouver." There's a light tunnel near the Jack Poole Plaza and an ice bear near the Harbour Green Park Stage. Other animals, including a squirrel, a beaver, a Blue Heron, and a whale, are located at other places along the route.

The free event will also have a "large and cozy" tented area in Harbour Green Park that will feature a live music stage featuring over 150 musicians and a speciality bar offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot drinks. 

Other exciting activations include:

  • Nightly fire performances at Canada Place Plaza
  • Diverse cultural storytellers at Komagata Maru Memorial
  • Enchanting live opera and classical singing at Cardero Park
  • Walks and talks exploring some of the lesser known and fascinating history of our city
  • All event activations are accessible and free for everyone to enjoy

“The Vancouver Convention Centre and Coal Harbour are jewels in the city. We are so proud to showcase its breathtaking beauty at Liven Up,” said Craig Lehto, General Manager, Vancouver Convention Centre, in a media release.

Juno award-winning jazz musician Cory Weeds said the event will be a great place to see "amazing players" in the city and is looking forward to performing on opening weekend. 

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Photo via Liven Up

Liven Up – Coal Harbour

When: Saturdays and Fridays, Dec. 1-30, from 5-10 p.m.

Where: Coal Harbour - Canada Place to Cardero Park

Cost: Free