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Paralympics Pavilions in Vancouver

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Shoelady

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— The feeling is that more venues should stay open during the Paralympics in Vancouver.

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games are almost over, but the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Games don't start until March 12 (and run until March 21).

It's too bad more pavilions won't be open during the Paralympics. This would be the perfect opportunity for locals to check out some the hugely popular attractions that we are unable or unwillingly to stand in line several hours to experience. Two pavilions that I would really like to visit with my family during the Paralympics are the Royal Canadian Mint and the BC Pavilion at the Vancouver Art Gallery (along with the free entry to the gallery to see the Da Vinci exhibit).

According to citycaucus.com, a good website for checking on up-to-date info on event and pavilions, the following venues are remaining open for the Paralympics:

LiveCity Downtown (Georgia Street, between Beatty and Cambie Streets): The City of Vancouver-sponsored celebration site will feature giant screens and live performances. Open March 12 to 14 and 18 to 21, from 1pm to 9pm.

British Columbia's Robson Square Celebration Site (Robson Street, between Hornby and Howe Streets): The GE Ice Plaza at the Robson Square Celebration Site will be one of the major gathering places during the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, featuring ice skating, athlete demonstrations, family events and BC-focused programming. The GE Ice Plaza is already open to the public with free skating and public events.

BC Hydro Power Smart Village (333 Dunsmuir Street): This family-friendly celebration site will feature a dance floor that generates electricity as people dance. A section of the village will be devoted to showcasing Canada's greatest Paralympic moments. Open March 1 to 22 from 10am to 6pm.

Canada's Northern House (602 West Hastings Street): Canada's Northern House showcases the culture of Canada's three territories including demonstrations of traditional Arctic games, craft displays and live musical events. Open March 1 to 31 from 10am to 5pm.

Pride House Vancouver (1170 Bute Street): An inclusive, welcome space for LGBT athletes, family, friends and visitors to come together and celebrate.

Centreplace Manitoba (at LiveCity Downtown): CentrePlace Manitoba features multimedia displays and an exhibit by the Canadian Museum of Human Rights. Open March 12 from 4pm to 7pm; March 13 to 14 and 18 to 21, from 1pm to 9pm.

The citycaucus.com website states that the BC government is exploring the option of keeping the BC-Canada Pavilion at the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Ziptrek open during the Paralympics. Here's hoping they make the right decision and encourage locals to celebrate the Paralympic Games and honour the Canadian Paralympic athletes. They certainly deserve it.

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