Team Canada kicked things off in style last night to launch this year's edition of the pyro-musical extravaganza known as the HSBC Celebration of Light. Love it or hate it, this event has helped to define summertime in Vancouver for 18 consecutive years, giving both tourists & locals a great reason to get out and enjoy some fresh air.
In case you missed it, last night's program was called "No Place Like Home" - an ode to the classic tale of the Wizard of Oz. Accompanying music was a medley from the soundtrack of the 1939 film by the same name, featuring Judy Garland. As usual, two-time defending champ Canada put on a technically sound display of mid-air creativity. Some of the estimated 300,000+ in attendance even broke out into song during the finale, singing "[Somewhere] Over The Rainbow" while beautiful rainbow-coloured fireworks lit up the beach, the water and the sky overhead.
"Somewhere Over The Rainbow"
If you didn't get your fill of fireworks last night, or missed out but wanted to go, there are still three more nights of fireworks to come. South Africa gets their turn to move the crowd this Saturday, July 25th @ 10pm at English Bay. Admission is free as always. Check our events calendar for more information on remaining dates and countries! More photos after the break...
Synchronized boats put on a little performance prior to the start of the fireworks.
The show got underway while there was still light in the sky.
Parked right underneath the action.
There were multiple instances of fireworks in the shape of hearts. This is but one.
Giant bouquets!
A shower of sparks.
Tough to beat the setting - the reflection in the water makes for a great effect.
Hundreds of boats attempting to flee English Bay right after the show results in a dizzying dance of lights.
