History
Canada Place was built on the land which was originally the Canadian Pacific Railway's Pier B-C. Built in 1927, its primary purpose was to serve CPR and other shipping lines trading across the Pacific Ocean.
In 1978 Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments commenced planning for development of convention, cruise ship and hotel facilities. Four years later, the Government of Canada created a crown corporation, Canada Harbour Place Corporation (now known as Canada Place Corporation), to develop the Canada Place project on the Pier B-C site. Construction began when HM Queen Elizabeth II arrived on the royal yacht Britannia with The Right Hon. Pierre Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada and The Hon. William R. Bennett, Premier of BC to initiate the first concrete pour.
During Expo ’86, the Canada Pavilion at Canada Place was opened by HRH Prince Charles and The Right Hon. Brian Mulroney, Prime Minister of Canada. Among the largest and most elaborate pavilions presented by any nation at any World's Fair, the Canada Pavilion hosted more than 5 million visitors prior to the October 13, 1986 closing date. The Canada Pavilion is acknowledged as one of the best-ever host nation pavilions at a world exposition.
The landmark that today is Canada Place is dedicated by the Government of Canada to the people of Canada and the world, who will visit and enjoy the many features of this unique project. Canada Place Corporation (CPC), a Crown agent, continues to act as the coordinating landlord for Canada Place facilities.
Events
Throughout the year many community events are held at and hosted by Canada Place. Some of these include:
- Canada Day at Canada Place - This multiple award-winning event features headline performers on four stages, interactive exhibitions, kid's zone, roaming entertainment and much more.
- Christmas at Canada Place - This event is a family tradition for many people in the Lower Mainland. It has been running for 23 years with guest favourites like the Woodward Windows and Breakfast with Santa.
- Sails of Light - A nightly event illuminating Canada Place’s 90 foot sails showcasing Canada. During Christmas the Sails of Light take a festive theme.
- Community Events - Events such as the well-known Vancouver International Jazz Festival to free yoga sessions on the promenade take place throughout various times of the year.
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