On July 20th, the City of North Vancouver invites you to join the vibrant festivities marking the fifth anniversary of The Shipyards, a beloved public space in Lower Lonsdale. This day-long celebration promises an array of free concerts, family-friendly activities, and much more, spotlighting the transformation of this historic waterfront into a bustling hub of community life. From its inception in 2019 to its current status as an iconic regional destination, The Shipyards has become a testament to urban revitalization and community spirit.
The Journey of The Shipyards
On July 19, 2019, Mayor Linda Buchanan, along with city officials, inaugurated the final phase of The Shipyards development by ceremoniously turning on the splash park. This marked the beginning of a new era for North Vancouver’s waterfront, turning a historic shipbuilding site into a dynamic space for recreation, culture, and community gatherings. Over the past five years, The Shipyards has not only won planning awards for its innovative design but also seen a steady increase in visitors, now attracting half a million people annually for various events, festivals, and activities.
Mayor Linda Buchanan highlights the significance of The Shipyards: “Our waterfront has long had a significant role in our community’s identity and economy. Today it stands as an excellent example of what we can achieve through collaboration and ambition. Over the past 5 years, this award-winning public space has brought people together through music, cultural festivals, ice skating, public art, food, and so much more.”
The 5th Anniversary Bash: What to Expect
The Shipyards’ Fifth Anniversary Bash on July 20th, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., promises a fun-filled day for all ages. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect:
Main Stage Performances
The Shipyards Commons will be alive with music throughout the day. The main stage lineup includes:
- 2:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.: Robbie George Land Acknowledgement
- 2:15 p.m. – 2:35 p.m.: Mayor’s Welcome
- 2:35 p.m. – 2:55 p.m.: Welh Pima Kexwusem – Squamish Nation Dance Group
- 3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.: DJ RupLoops (Juno-nominated Ruby Singh)
- 4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.: Fionn (Vancouver-based folk-pop sisters)
- 5:00 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.: Passion Mango
- 6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.: Black Pontiac
- 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.: Hotel Mira (BC local favorites)
- 8:25 p.m. – 9:55 p.m.: Bahamas (Canadian folk rock darlings)
Youth & Family Hub
From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Youth & Family Hub at the Foot of Lonsdale will host a variety of activities including:
- BMX demonstrations by North Shore Bike Park
- Circus workshops and roaming artists with Vancouver Circus School
- Kid’s First Art Zone with The Polygon Gallery
- Pop-up dance performances by Small Stage
- Interactive Chalk Mandala Workshop with artist Erica Phillips
- Breakdancing pop-up performance by Gigabots Breakdancers
- The Snoezelen Mobile Sensory Unit with North Shore Disability Resource Centre
- Earthquake Simulator with Quake Cottage Canada and North Shore Emergency Management
- Community booths featuring North Van Arts, North Vancouver Recreation and Culture Commission, North Shore Pride Alliance, North Shore Hub, Capilano Community Services Society, MONOVA, Polygon Gallery, and Lonsdale Quay.
Cates Deck Dance Zone
- Zumba with Ponnie Matin Studios
- Bollywood Dance Classes with North Vancouver Recreation and Culture
- Jumbo Games with Play CNV
Burrard Dry Dock Pier Experiences
- Super Dogs Mini Show from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- MONOVA Explore Kid’s Activities from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Shipyards Pals Historic Tours at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. (Tours start at MONOVA Museum)
Lonsdale Quay Market Plaza
- Lonsdale Quay Market South Plaza activations, including musical performances, yoga, Zumba, and Latin fusion workshops from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Scavenger Hunt and Kids Games from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Copperpenny Cocktail Garden at Shipbuilders’ Square
Refresh with local beer, cider, non-alcoholic cocktails, slushies, and gin cocktails from Copperpenny Distilling Co., featuring a touch of local culinary flair.
Shipyards Sips at the Pipe Shop
Sip on your favorite drink and shop around a curated artisan market. This is the perfect place to catch some shade and relax in comfortable seating areas.
Food Trucks
A variety of food trucks will be stationed throughout The Shipyards, offering delicious options such as:
- Adam’s Falafal
- Baba’s House of Pierogies
- Bali Bites
- Chou Chou Crepes
- Chilango Mango
- Gary’s Kettle Corn
- Good Dogs
- Kona Ice
- Midnight Joe’s
- Pragery
- Mr. Ararancino
- Shameless Buns
- Tornado Potato
Closing Thoughts
The fifth anniversary of The Shipyards is not just a celebration of a public space, but a tribute to the community spirit that has made it a vibrant part of North Vancouver. As Mayor Linda Buchanan eloquently puts it, “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.” Join us on July 20th to celebrate this milestone, enjoy the diverse range of activities, and be a part of the community that makes The Shipyards a cherished place for all. See you there!
For more info, visit cnv.org/LongSummerNights.
For media inquiries, contact media@cnv.org.