Next week, an International Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) convention is coming to Vancouver, and estimates suggest it could be the biggest to ever come to the city.
AA organizers told Daily Hive that they expect over 35,000 recovering alcoholics and guests from over 90 countries. The website says that it could potentially be more total attendees, suggesting 40,000+ members will be visiting from all over the world.
Despite the slight discrepancy, the estimates would still put it right at the top for the largest convention that Vancouver has ever hosted. The AA convention is the second major event to take place in Vancouver within two months. In May, the city hosted the Web Summit, which attracted over 15,000 people.
Here are some important things to note about the AA convention, especially if you’ll be in the downtown area next week.
The convention kicks off on Thursday, July 3 and lasts until July 6 across two venues, the Vancouver Convention Centre and BC Place. There will also be a couple of events at the Fairmont Waterfront on Friday and Saturday.
“As one of the largest conventions Vancouver has ever hosted, this event will bring international attention to the city while spotlighting stories of hope, resilience, and recovery,” AA says.
“The 2025 International Convention will take place on what we are calling the Convention Campus. Maps will be available in our mobile app and program materials detailing all the hotel space, convention rooms and the stadium dedicated to housing our event. ”
The event is not only historic for the city, but it’s also historic for AA.
“This will mark the 90th anniversary of the beginning of our Fellowship’s founding.”
AA adds that the city will “come alive” thanks to hundreds of meetings, diverse programming, and a massive opening night block party, which will culminate in three stadium-sized gatherings at BC Place. Speaking of coming alive, on opening day, Thursday, July 6, a massive block party will take place at the Vancouver Convention Centre, starting at 6 p.m. and lasting until midnight.
AA has a housing guide for visitors, which suggests various hotels, campsites, and RV parks for their accommodation.
Registration is still open, and for anyone registering now, the cost will be approximately CAD$250.
Another major convention event to take note of for traffic purposes is that on Friday night, between 8 and 10 p.m., there will be an opening flag ceremony at BC Place, where “members from each participating country will carry their national flags past cheering crowds.”
There will be numerous meetings and events taking place throughout the event daily, so it’s advisable to plan your commute in advance. The first week of July in Vancouver follows a hectic last week of June, with tens of thousands of cruise ship passengers expected this weekend.
AA has a schedule available for the public and will provide updates about the convention on its website.
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