Next weekend marks the first anniversary of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, and Vancouverites haven’t forgotten last year’s glory.
The weekend of Feb. 11- 12, this piece of the Pacific Northwest is hosting a slew of commemorative events. They include everything from lighting the Olympic Cauldron to a National Hockey League game. To make all this more accessible, Vancouver hotels are charging some decidedly decent rates this time of year.
Here’s a sampling of what’s going on:
Mix and mingle: If you’re not the solitary type and like to celebrate with company, head to Granville Street February 12, one of the city’s prime gathering points during the Games. From 12 p.m. till 9 p.m. see street performers, street hockey and the Lunar Festival parade.
Mix and mingle to the max: Should Granville Street goings-on prove too sedate consider Yaletown, perhaps Vancouver’s trendiest neighborhood. Illuminate Yaletown is a two-day (February 11 and 12) street party, featuring spectacular light installations by local artists.
Cheer the Canucks: Hockey anyone? The Vancouver Canucks and the Calgary Flames fly at one another on the ice February 12. The game gets underway at 7 p.m. at Rogers Arena. It’s expected to include an Olympic tribute.
Relive the light: Gather at Jack Poole Plaza at 4 p.m. on February 12 for the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron. Bring your camera.
For the family: If you’re traveling with kids the Creekside Community Recreation Centre has you covered. It’s the site of a free, family-friendly gathering February 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Featured are a range of Olympic and Paralympic-themed goings-on. There’s a hockey sledge race, Wii winter sports, Olympic pin trading, and a big-screen television showing highlights from the 2010 Games.
On the slopes: Feeling a tad adventurous? Ski Cyprus Mountain, where Canada won its first gold medal of the 2010 Games. After a good run, head to Crazy Raven Bar & Grill and brag over a brew.
Grousing around: The Vancouver area’s signature peak, Grouse Mountain, is open 24-hours a day February 12 and 13. That means you can ski, snowboard, ice skate, zipline or dine till you’re ready to drop.
Fabulous flicks: Some folks like to climb rocky mountains, trek trying paths, and ski beautiful backcountry. Others just like to watch. Whatever your persuasion, the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival is worth checking out. Some of these films just might leave you breathless.
You’ll need a place to stay: Summertime is when the hotel rates are highest. That makes February a good time to go. Here are some ideas:
Check in at the Ramada Inn & Suites Downtown Vancouver on February 11 and check out February 13. The rate, taxes and fees included, is $177.81. The same accommodations for the same two-day stay during August runs $413.95.
Stay at the Comfort Inn Downtown Vancouver during the same period in February and pay $189.45, taxes and fees included. Wait till August and the rate is $421.03.
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Story by Jerry Chandler
