Best Places to Watch Celebration of Light Vancouver Fireworks

The annual Celebration of Light fireworks take place July 28, August 1 and 4, 2012 and close to 400,000 people are expected to cram English Bay to get a glimpse of the visual spectacle. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to watch the Celebration of Light Fireworks in Vancouver. This will come in handy to those that want to avoid large crowds.

1. English Bay Beach

Obviously nothing beats English Bay beach. It’s the spot to watch the Celebration of Light Vancouver fireworks. This is the spot that everyone wants so get there early and plan for a long day at the beach. Situated at the foot of Davie and Denman there are plenty of food options and there are restrooms near by as well. If you arrive late get ready to be pushed by unruly, drunken suburban teens.

Take transit and walk the streets of the West End to get here, driving isn’t even an option.

You could get bleacher seating and avoid the kerfuffle all together.

2. Vanier Park

Located across False Creek from English Bay Beach, Vanier Park is also very crowded on Vancouver fireworks nights. So go early for the best spots.

3. Kitsilano Beach

Located just west of Vanier Park, Kits Beach is one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches and it will be busy during the day. However, at night time it’s not as busy and a good spot to watch the fireworks.

4. Stanley Park Seawall (English Bay side)

Just west of the crowds at English Bay you can stroll into Stanley Park and watch the fireworks and not put up with the hassle of crowds.

5. On a boat

If you know anyone that has a boat or are willing to pay for a boat cruise, this is the closest you’ll get to the fireworks. However, it will cost you.

6. Rooftop patio (restaurant or residential)

Again, just like the boat it’s good to know people that have access to awesome patios as they will fill up rather quickly.

7. Burrard Bridge

You will have to jockey for position but the view from Burrard Bridge is quite spectacular. For a less crowded experience you can try Granville Street Bridge.

Image: David Lin