July 28,2025
RED FM News Desk
Despite the massive crowds that gathered at Vancouver’s English Bay for the annual Celebration of Light, the event proceeded smoothly without any major issues, according to police.
The fireworks festival wrapped up on Saturday with a grand finale by Team Nova Scotia. Unlike previous years, the competition was exclusively Canadian this time, featuring performances by Team Quebec last Wednesday and Team Yukon the weekend before.
“This is a logistically complex event for us due to the large number of people on land, vessels in the water, extensive road closures, and the need for a significant police presence,” said Sgt. Steve Addison of the Vancouver Police Department in a statement to CTV News.
The event’s security was heightened in light of April’s deadly SUV attack in Lapu LapuDay festival. Organizers implemented enhanced safety measures, including steel vehicle barriers and the deployment of 400 additional officers during fireworks nights.
“We’ve used heavy vehicle barriers and other protective measures for years,” said Paul Runnals, the event’s executive producer. “This year, we’ve reinforced them based on what we learned in April, but it’s an extension of what we’ve long practiced.”
According to Addison, police handled typical festival-related incidents such as lost children, intoxicated individuals, and minor altercations.
“Overall, it was a safe and successful three-night event with no significant public safety concerns at the waterfront,” he said.
While a 15-year-old was fatally stabbed near the Law Courts in downtown Vancouver on July 19—shortly after the first night of fireworks—police stated there is no indication the incident was connected to the festival.
The competition’s winner will be announced on Tuesday.
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