With the Canadian dollar so low these days, Metro Vancouver can expect to see tourists pouring into the region all year long.
But there are five major attractions that will bring in big bucks for the Tri-Cities and organizers say they need the public's help to make these events a success — and have guests return to the community for years to come.
• Coquitlam 125: It's the city's 125th anniversary and there are plenty of events for the municipal milestone. People with skills in event planning, decorating, creating stories and visual arts — and everything in between — are needed throughout the year-long celebrations. Visit coquitlam125.ca or email [email protected].
• U19 World Field Lacrosse: Colombia will be one of 10 teams on the field at Coquitlam Town Centre Park for the U19 Men's Lacrosse World Championships, from July 7 to 16. Junior players are competing for the U19 Lacrosse International Crown and two youth invitational tournaments are happening at the same time: U19 Girls from July 9 to 11 and U15 Boys from July 13 to 15. Volunteers are needed for security, chaperoning, communications and ticket sales, among other things. Visit 2016worldlax.com or email [email protected].
• PoCo Grand Prix: The inaugural cycling race will take place on Friday, July 15 as part of BC SuperWeek (July 8 to 17) and will see dozens of riders zip through downtown Port Coquitlam — with the winners cashing in. PoCo has signed up for five years to be a host city, taking over from UBC. Volunteers can register via pocograndprix.ca.
• Ribfest: Last year's first-ever Ribfest drew some 40,000 to Rocky Point Park in Port Moody to feast on ribs, pulled pork and craft brew. The Rotary Club of Port Moody, with sponsorship from Thrifty Foods, plans an encore presentation from July 22 to 24 and volunteers are needed to lend a hand (all the better if you have Serving It Right and Food Safe certifications). Helpers are needed for set up, hosting, refreshment serving, rib running, guest services, children's activities and security. Most shifts will last three hours. Volunteers will need to attend a training session at city hall. Visit portmoodyribfest.ca or email [email protected].
• 55+ BC Games: To coincide with its anniversary, Coquitlam will play host to the 55+ BC Games from Sept. 20 to 24 — a sporting event that will draw about 4,000 athletes and their families and coaches from around the province. More than 2,000 volunteers are needed to put on the 29th annual games for the seniors, who will compete in more than two dozen activities — from archery to whist — at Tri-City sites as well as at the Swan-E-Set Bay golf course in Pitt Meadows. Volunteers can register online at 55plusgames.ca.
[email protected]
@jwarrenTC
