Free Things to do During the Paralympics

If you had a fun time checking out all the free pavilions and entertainment during the Olympics, you may be curious about what free public activities will remain during the Paralympics (March 12 to 21). Activities and events at Robson Square, including the Zipline, will continue during the Paralympics. In addition, the Paralympic torch relay kicks off March 3rd and several of the Canadian pavilions will remain open to visitors.

Robson Square by Night.
Photo Credit: Eric Moromisato.

Robson Square

Robson Square was among the top places for getting into the Olympic spirit in February. In order to continue to provide a hub for activity during the Paralympics, Premier Campbell announced the venue would re-open for the Paralympics. Robson Square will continue to feature daily free entertainment and concerts, big screen event coverage, nightly fireworks  and ice skating at GE Plaza.

Open: March 12 to 21
Location: see map 

Urban Zipline

Line-ups for the Zipline were reportedly over 6 hours long during the Olympics. The crowds just can’t get enough of this limited-time opportunity to soar across the heart of the city. You’ll have another chance during the Paralympics!

Open: March 12 to 21 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Robson Square- see map

Paralympic Torch Relay

The 10-day Paralympic Torch Relay begins March 3rd in Ottawa and will feature about 600 torchbearers and stops at several Canadian Celebration Sites. Celebrations will highlight the stories, achievements and courage of inspirational Paralympic athletes. View the schedule and to see when the torch may be near you.

Dates: March 3 to 12
Locations: various, see schedule

BC Hydro Power Smart Village

The Power Smart village is the unofficial sustainability hub of the games. One of the great things about this venue is that they will be showcasing Canada’s greatest Paralympic moments, as well as some of the technology used by the athletes. Described as an interactive gathering place, the village also features “Club Energy,” a sustainable dance floor that generates electricity as people dance, a unique home of the future and an energy-efficient outdoor theatre. The 65-inch energy-efficient TV is great for catching sports coverage.

March 1 to 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m daily
Location: 333 Dunsmuir Street- see map

LiveCity Downtown

A giant screen will show live coverage of the Paralympic Winter events as they unfold.

Open: March 12 to 14 and March 18 to 21. From 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: West Georgia Street and Cambie Street. See map.

Royal Canadian Mint- 2010 Athlete Medals

The Royal Canadian Mint is re-opening its exhibition at a new location (the Vancouver Public Library) for the Paralympics. This may be one of the last chances for Vancouverites to see the medals and learn about their production first-hand. There will also be daily coin exchanges and collectibles on sale.

Open: Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
Location: Vancouver Public Library (350 West Georgia)

Vancouver Art Gallery (free admission during the Paralympics)

The Vancouver Art Gallery, located next to Robson Square, offered free admission during the Olympics and will extend the offer during the Paralympics. One of the feature exhibits is Leonardo Da Vinci: The Mechanics of Man, which includes a group of his famous drawings, referred to as the Anatomical Manuscript A, which focuses on the structures of the body and movements of musculature.

On the exterior of the Gallery facing Robson Street is an open-air exhibition featuring video art from over 70 international artists. This exhibition, CUE: Artists’ Videos, provides a unique experience of contemporary experimental film and video.

Open: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m with free admission during the Paralympics
Location: 750 Hornby Street (off Robson)

Canada’s Northern House

Canada’s Northern House brings the warmth and wonder of Canada's North to Vancouver. Highlights of a visit to this House include the opportunity to meet Northern performers and artists and watch demonstrations of traditional Arctic Games. There will be performances including oral storytelling and Inuit throat-singing. Check the website for daily events.

Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until April 17, 2010
Location: 602 West Hastings Street

British Columbia Canada Pavilion

Located on the fourth floor of the Vancouver Art Gallery the BC pavilion features multimedia presentations and interactive displays that highlight the culture, business and people of the province.

Open: March 12- 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Vancouver Art Gallery (next to Robson Square)

Three Agitos

The Three Agitos is the Paralympic Symbol. It will be on display at YVR (airport) and in Coal Harbour during the Paralympic Games.

Open: March 12 to 21

Canada Pavilion

This $10 million dollar pavilion provides an inspiring showcase of Canadian athletes, culture and heritage. The Pavilion features interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations and innovative content to profile Canada as an investment, business and tourism destination.

Open: March 12 to 14 and March 18 to 21. From 1p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Corner of West Georgia Street and Beatty Street.  See map.

CentrePlace Manitoba

Find out what makes Manitoba unique! This pavilion has a 38-screen, panoramic video presentation designed to showcase the people, places and spirit of the province. The lighting design at this venue promises to dazzle viewers with images of shimmering northern lights, majestic polar bears and herds of bison. The pavilion’s green features may also be of interest, as this design was awarded VANOCs “Sustainability Star” designation.

Open: Mar. 12 to 21, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Downtown Vancouver at West Georgia Street and Beatty Street

The Olympic Cauldron

The Cauldron will remain lit until the end of the Paralympic Games. It is a short walk from the heart of the city (located on the waterfront next to the new convention centre). It’s a great place for photo opportunities and a glance at a piece of history.