HSBC Celebration of Light
Each year beginning at the end of July, the skies of the
City of Vancouver are filled with fireworks for the annual
HSBC Celebration of Light festival.
This year, three countries show off their best
pyrotechnics over the four day event: Canada (July 27), Sweden (July
30), China (August 3) and the Grande Finale (August 6).
Beginning at 10:00pm sharp each of the four nights, the
competitors show their stuff from a barge anchored in English Bay.
With music simulcast on Rock 101 (101.1 FM) the competitors attempt to
synchronize their fireworks to both contemporary and classical music.
Musical
fireworks competitions are unique to Canada. Although there are
non-musical fireworks competitions elsewhere in the world, musical
fireworks competitions of this size and calibre do not exist. Leading
fireworks' manufacturers consider the Canadian fireworks displays to
be most prestigious, and an exciting arena where they can unveil the
latest pyro-musical techniques and the most innovative fireworks'
materials.
For best viewing, event organizers recommend English
Bay, Kitsilano, Vanier Park, Jericho Beach and West Vancouver.
But be warned - this annual event is extremely popular
(1.4 million people last year) and there are
numerous road closures in effect each night.
For more information be sure to
check out the
HSBC Celebration of Light website.
