Canada competing in 2013 Celebration of Light
Posted April 30, 2013 10:05 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – The UK will kick off the 2013 Celebration of Light on July 27th.
Canada’s performance will be July 31st. Thailand’s turn will be on August 3rd; this will be the first time that country has taken part in the fireworks competition.
Deputy Vancouver Mayor Tony Tang says the event brings over 400,000 people to the city every night. “More people come during the night-time or even in the afternoon, for dinner, shopping, and walking around the area.”
“The excitement, it brings in tourism, too,” he adds.
The event is expected to bring in $37 million; the city spends about $700,000 for security and cleanup.
Paul Tilbury, director of the Vancouver Fireworks Society, tells us the event continues to grow with food, entertainment, and musical acts.
As for security, he says, “Obviously, recent events in the world are very tragic. We’re very mindful about safety. Safety is very important and the Vancouver Police Department, throughout the years, have always put safety first and foremost.”
Over 400,000 people flock to the city each night of the Celebration of Light.
The fireworks display will be over English Bay at 10 p.m., rain or shine. The winning country will be announced on August 5th.
