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Vancouver’s Honda Celebration of Light Cancelled Indefinitely Over Funding Collapse

Organizers cite vanishing grants plus surging costs, leaving roughly a $1 million hole.

Overview

  • The Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society cancelled the event indefinitely after months of unsuccessful outreach to governments and sponsors.
  • Federal support has been eliminated and provincial funding cut about 65%, a combined $650,000 loss, according to executive producer Paul Runnals.
  • With an annual budget just over $3 million, organizers report a roughly $1 million gap for 2026 as production and safety costs continue to rise.
  • Title sponsors such as Honda, Concord Pacific and Tymac remain listed, though major partners like Scotiabank and Seaspan have exited in recent years.
  • A 2026 revival is described as unlikely without swift, sizable backing, as B.C.’s events sector reports further cancellations and urges stable provincial funding.