On May 4, 2023, The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) will be docking ships at Burrard Dry Dock Pier. The RCN will host public tours of ships and engage in activities related to Fleet Weekend and the commemoration of the Battle of the Atlantic from May 5-8. The RCN activities and events are expected to draw up to 17,000 visitors throughout the weekend.
On May 6, 2023, CityFest, Metro Vancouver’s largest youth-led festival, will be taking place at The Shipyards from 12 pm – 4:30 pm. The festival is expected to have up to 7,000 attendees.
Expect Road Closures, Parking and Traffic Impacts
Throughout the weekend, RCN and MARPAC will be hosting tours and events at Burrard Dry Dock Pier, St Roch Dock, Shipbuilders Square and Waterfront Park.
From May 5 to 8:
- Expect parking in the area to be limited.
- Expect traffic and transit delays. Please refer to service updates from TransLink at translink.ca/alerts.
On May 6 only: Lonsdale Avenue between Esplanade Street and Carrie Cates Court will be closed to vehicle traffic to accommodate CityFest activities. Vehicle access to Carries Cates Court between Rogers Avenue and Lonsdale Avenue will be limited.
Expect Crowds
Both events and activities are expected to draw large amounts of visitors.
- Plan extra time to visit the amenities you are coming to see.
- Navy personnel will be on-site to manage safety and to coordinate visitor tours.
- RCMP and City Staff will be on-site throughout the weekend to manage safety and road closures.
- Be patient with staff and other visitors – let’s keep The Shipyards a fun space!
How to Get to The Shipyards
Visitors are encouraged to walk, take transit and bike to The Shipyards. The area is pedestrian-friendly with connecting trails and safe spaces to walk with friends and family. Bike parking is located throughout the area and a bike valet will be available on-site on May 6. Access is easy by transit, with the SeaBus arriving right at The Shipyards and bus connections nearby. Due to ongoing construction, street parking will be limited in the area. Pay parking lots are available within a few blocks.
About CityFest
Celebrated during B.C.’s annual Youth Week, CityFest showcases an assortment of local youth musicians, bands, visual artists and the skateboarding community. Visit nvcityfest.com for more information.
About Fleet Weekend and the Battle of the Atlantic
The Royal Canadian Navy will offer free ship tours and harbour boat rides to the public during Fleet Weekend to foster awareness of the navy and provide the opportunity to see and experience what sailors do on a day-to-day basis. The Battle of Atlantic (1939-1945) was the longest continuous military campaign, with the Canadian Navy playing a pivotal role in the success of allied forces in the Second World War.
