The Shipyards, a beloved gathering place for North Vancouverites, is turning five, and all community members are invited to its birthday bash on Saturday, July 20.
The day-long festival will include free music performances on the mainstage at The Shipyards Commons by Hotel Mira and the Bahamas, Vancouver-based folk-pop sisters Fionn, Black Pontiac, Passion Mango, and Juno-nominated DJ Ruby Singh, also known as RupLoops.
There will be cocktail lounges and tasting booths as well as various fun and interactive workshops, including BMX demonstrations, outdoor games, circus and Bollywood dance workshops, and indoor family-friendly lounges to escape the sun.
“The Shipyards has a long and significant history, playing a key role in our community’s identity and economy,” said City of North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan, adding that all great cities have outstanding public spaces. “The vision we had for The Shipyards, which wasn’t active for a very long time, was to become our community’s crown jewel – a public space that brings people together, supports our local economy and tourism, and celebrates all that is unique about the City of North Vancouver. Over the past five years, I think we've achieved that vision remarkably well.”
The celebrations will begin at 2 p.m. and continue until 10 p.m., and the mayor and council will be in attendance all day to mingle and party with community members.
“This Saturday is a day to bring the community together and kick off our long summer nights, which will happen on Saturdays for the rest of the summer,”Buchanan added.
Asked what she personally feels about The Shipyards, Buchanan said she’s loved to see how people use the space in different ways.
“During COVID, The Shipyards was, and still is, one of the largest public outdoor covered spaces. For me, my whole focus is about community and the people that make up our great city. This is about providing a public space that allows individuals to connect with family and friends, meet new people, and enjoy a variety of activities. Over the years, many new friendships have been made by coming to The Shipyards.”
To learn more about the full anniversary line-up and how to get to The Shipyards, you can visit cnv.org/LongSummerNights.
