Dec 01, 2025
Cancelled Indefinitely: Celebration of Light Vancouver
As summer warms up in Vancouver, many residents look forward to one of the city’s most iconic traditions: the Honda Celebration of Light. For decades, fireworks lit up the night sky over English Bay as hundreds of thousands gathered to watch the displays. But this year brings unexpected news. Organizers have announced that the event has been cancelled indefinitely due to major funding challenges.
The fireworks may be paused, but the memories and cultural importance of the festival still live on. This updated guide shares the history of the event, the reasons behind its cancellation, and what this means for Vancouver.
History of the Celebration of Light
The Honda Celebration of Light, a major summer event in Vancouver, started in 1990 as the Symphony of Fire. Initially a showcase for fireworks sponsors, it evolved into an international competition. It was renamed the Celebration of Light and became the Honda Celebration of Light in 2012 when Honda became the title sponsor. Each participating country gets an evening to present their fireworks and music show, attracting tens of thousands of spectators. Over the years, countries like Canada, China, Brazil, Australia, Italy, and Japan have participated, each bringing their unique style.
One of the most memorable shows was by Japan in 2014, which won that year’s competition with a stunning display synchronized to dramatic music. Now, the Honda Celebration of Light is one of the longest-running offshore fireworks competitions globally and the largest public event in British Columbia. It draws hundreds of thousands of people and is a key highlight of Vancouver’s summer. As the latest festival approaches, everyone is eager to see which country will create the winning display this year.
For 33 years, the Celebration of Light became a Vancouver summer tradition — a moment when families, friends, and visitors came together to watch the sky come alive.
Cancellation Announcement
In 2025, festival organizers made a difficult announcement:
The Honda Celebration of Light has been cancelled indefinitely.
The Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society (VFFS) explained that the decision followed months of trying to secure funding from government and private partners. However, rising production costs and major funding cuts made the event impossible to continue.
Key issues included:
- Elimination of federal funding
- A 65% cut in provincial support for next year
- Declining private sector investment
- Rising costs of staging the event
According to executive producer Paul Runnals, the loss of federal support and reduced provincial funding alone created a $650,000 shortfall. While the festival generated approximately $4 million in economic activity each year, organizers said the financial gap was simply too large to overcome.
Michael McKnight, co-chair of VFFS, called the cancellation “incredibly painful,” noting that the event had been a shared experience for people across the province and around the world.
Organizers say they explored every option before making the announcement. They hope that by being transparent about the financial situation, partners may step forward in the future to revive the event sustainably.
For now, however, the Celebration of Light remains on pause.
What This Means for Locals and Visitors
Since the festival will not take place this summer, the large crowds and busy beach evenings that usually happen on fireworks nights will not occur. However, English Bay, Kitsilano Beach, and Vanier Park remain beautiful places to enjoy a Vancouver sunset.
Restaurants, bars, and businesses that typically see an increase in visitors during the fireworks may notice quieter evenings, but the city’s summer atmosphere continues with other seasonal events, outdoor concerts, festivals, and activities.
Vancouver also continues to offer world-class beaches, parks, patios, and attractions… Perfect for anyone visiting or staying in the city this summer.
If the Celebration of Light Returns: What to Know
Although the Honda Celebration of Light has been cancelled indefinitely, many Vancouver residents and visitors hope the festival may come back in the future. If it does return, here are some general tips and information based on past years to help you plan ahead.
Ticketing Information
The event has always been free to attend along the beaches and seawall areas. In previous years, premium viewing zones were available for purchase, offering reserved seating, washrooms, and food options. These areas often sold out early, so booking ahead was recommended.
If the festival returns, expect similar options and consider planning ahead, as crowds can be large and public amenities like restrooms and food vendors tend to be busy.
Helpful Tips for a Future Festival
If the Celebration of Light comes back, here is what past attendees have found helpful:
Arrive Early
Beaches and parks fill up quickly. Arriving a few hours before showtime usually ensures a good spot.
Best Viewing Spots
English Bay has always been the main gathering point, but great views are also available at:
- Kitsilano Beach
- Vanier Park
- Burrard Bridge area
Premium viewing zones may also return as a paid option.
Plan Your Transportation
In past years:
- Public Transit: Extra buses and trains helped move crowds efficiently.
- Biking: Bike valet services were often available.
Parking has always been limited, so transit or cycling is typically the best option.
Bring Essentials
To stay comfortable, people usually brought:
- Blankets or small portable chairs
- Snacks and water (food vendors are available but busy)
- Warm layers, as evenings by the water can feel cool
Stay Connected
The event previously offered:
- An official event app for schedules and updates
- Active social media pages with announcements and alerts
These tools may return if the festival is revived.
Respect the Rules
Past rules included:
- No public consumption of alcohol
- Keeping beaches and parks clean
- Following instructions from event staff
Safety First
Set a meeting point with your group in case someone gets separated. In earlier years, first aid stations and security teams were always on site.
Enjoy the Festivities
Before the fireworks, the festival often featured:
- Live entertainment
- Music
- Activities along the beach
Each competing country brought its own unique style and soundtrack, making every show different and exciting.
Celebrating Vancouver Summer in Other Ways
Even without the fireworks, there are many ways to enjoy summer in Vancouver:
- Explore sunset beaches like English Bay, Jericho, or Spanish Banks
- Visit Stanley Park and rent bikes
- Enjoy free outdoor concerts and festivals around the city
- Take a walk along the seawall
- Experience Granville Island’s markets and waterfront
- Try outdoor movies and pop-up events throughout July and August
The Honda Celebration of Light may be paused, but Vancouver’s summer spirit is still alive.
Conclusion
For more than three decades, the Honda Celebration of Light was a highlight of summer in Vancouver — a tradition that connected communities and lit up the sky. Its indefinite cancellation marks the end of an era, but many hope it will return one day, stronger and more sustainable.
If you’re visiting Vancouver this summer and are in need of a temporary furnished rental, contact our friendly team at Highstreet Accommodations today. We have beautiful apartments throughout the downtown core. Perhaps you’ll have a front row seat to the fireworks display from your own furnished apartment!
