Big crowds enjoy Vancouver fireworks, but the event may end due to costs. City News Vancouver
Hundreds of thousands of people filled Vancouver’s shoreline Saturday night. They came to watch the Honda Celebration of Light light up the sky over English Bay. This was the first of three shows planned for the festival.
The event has been a beloved summer tradition, but rising costs and less government support threaten its future. Organizers warn this might be the last time the fireworks barge appears without long-term funding.
Costs Rising Fast, Support Shrinking
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, festival expenses have jumped by 20 to 30 percent. Producer Paul Runnals told CityNews, “We’ve cut everything we can cut. There just isn’t a way to make this cheaper unless we cut it entirely.”
Two years ago, the event received $700,000 in funding from provincial and federal governments. Next year, it will only get $100,000. That steep drop worries organizers.
Runnals explained that the festival brings in nearly $4 million each year in tax revenue for the province. He said, “Removing funding, and risking the loss of the event, will actually cost the government more than giving us the money.”
City Efforts and Challenges
The Celebration of Light is Vancouver’s only public fireworks show. The city keeps its support steady for police, traffic control, and cleanup during the event.
But Vancouver’s council members also face money challenges. Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung said, “We are trying to keep property taxes reasonable for residents. We need extra help because we don’t have extra funding.”
Sponsors Withdrawing Support
It’s not only government money that’s shrinking. Corporate sponsors are also pulling back.
Runnals said many companies hold on to their money due to world uncertainty. This has made it harder for the festival to find new sponsors.
A Festival at Risk
Organizers worry that without new funding, the Celebration of Light could end after next year.
Runnals shared, “If nothing changes, this will be the final year for the Celebration of Light.”
The festival has long been a major event that brings communities together, boosts local businesses, and fills the city with joy. Now, it waits on support to keep this tradition alive.
