The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games may have come and gone a year ago but that won't stop Port Coquitlam residents and city officials from reliving the excitement during Spirit Week celebrations this month.
Starting Saturday, city officials said residents will be painting the town red through red decor and clothing as the popular community celebration enters its fifth year.
"We think it's really important to continue with the strength we have in our community around the spirit of our people," said Renee Chadwick, the chair of the Spirit Committee. "With the Canada Winter Games happening during Spirit Week, we'll be cheering on our B.C. athletes. We feel it's important to support the endeavours of individuals, whether it's sports or heritage or culture."
Spirit Week events will run from Feb. 12 to 19 and include:
Feb. 12: Watch Canada Winter Games screenings and celebrate Canada's hockey birthday at the PoCo recreation complex. The opening of the Roots art exhibit will also take place at Leigh Square.
Feb. 13: Events include a Sunday coffee concert and community spirit song-writing workshop at the Terry Fox Theatre, an open house at the Hyde Creek Hatchery and Education Centre and a Valentine/Spirit Skate.
Feb. 14: Try out boot camp for free.
Feb. 15: Children and their parents can enjoy spirit-themed Playmates drop-in.
Feb. 16: Try out boot camp for free and attend a community dinner at Wilson Centre.
Feb. 17: A Celebration of Rising Stars at Leigh Square will recognize artistic and athletic achievements of local young people.
Feb. 18: Events include Pro-D spirit day camps, a spirit-themed Time for Gym drop-in playtime, free boot camp session and youth late-night skate.
Feb. 19: Events include a community breakfast at Wilson Centre, spirit-themed storytime at Terry Fox Library, spirit swims for families and youth, Hockey Night in PoCo and A Taste of PoCo Spirit wine tasting.
For details about these events, visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/spiritweek or call 604-927-7900.
