The excitement in Vancouver is palpable as the Canucks have made their triumphant return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Here are seven ways the people around the city are embracing the big occasion:
1. Canucks’ playoff homecoming
Canucks fans are revelling in the team’s return to playoff hockey at home for the first time since 2015. After years of anticipation, there’s a renewed sense of excitement and optimism surrounding the team’s prospects in the postseason. For both the city and the team, it truly is a long time coming, and with the atmosphere that was Game 1, one can only imagine how loud the building will be for Game 2 on Tuesday night.
2. Lions Gate Bridge tribute
The Lions Gate Bridge, a known landmark in Vancouver, has been adorned with massive Canucks jerseys to celebrate the team’s playoff run. These custom-made jerseys have appeared mysteriously on the statues, leaving authorities and residents puzzled. The police, along with B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation, who oversee the bridge, are unaware of who created the jerseys or placed them on the statues. Despite concerns that the jerseys on the statues could potentially distract drivers, the ministry has decided to leave them in place for the time being, as the city’s excitement for Vancouver Canucks playoff hockey is as high as it’s been in years.
3. Car flags flying high
Throughout the city, cars can be seen proudly flying Canucks car flags as they navigate the streets of Vancouver. These flags serve as a visible display of fan pride, and as two cars with flags pass by one another, one will often hear a honk!
4. Delta Watch Parties
While Vancouver itself did not organize an official outdoor watch party, the neighbouring city of Delta has stepped up to host watch parties at the Social Heart Plaza for every Canucks playoff game. These gatherings give fans an opportunity to come together and cheer on their team in a lively and energetic atmosphere!
5. Translink joins the celebration
Even the Translink buses in Vancouver are getting into the playoff spirit by displaying “Go Team Go” messages on their buses before Game 1. While some residents have suggested changing the message to “Go Canucks Go,” the small but supportive gesture is still there in a meaningful way. In another gesture, the PA voice of the Canucks Al Murdoch’s voice will be heard across select SkyTrain stations on home playoff game days.
6. Scott Road celebrations
Following the Canucks’ victory, fans took to Scott Road and 72nd to celebrate in true Vancouver fashion. The streets were alive with excitement as fans waved flags, cheered loudly, and shared in the jubilation of the team’s success. Not just Scott Road, but South Fraser Way in Abbotsford was also lined up with fans waving flags to passing by cars!
7. Rogers Arena viewing party
Game 2 will take place tonight at the arena, with doors opening at a special time of 5:30 PM and puck drop scheduled for 7:00 PM. With the team heading to Nashville after tonight, Rogers Arena will host an official ‘Away Game Viewing Party’ for Game #3 of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
For years, this city has waited for playoff hockey to return. In 2011, the team’s slogan was “this is what we live for”, and for many loyal fans who have stuck around since then, this has been a long time coming. This year, the team’s slogan is “all in, all together,” and by the looks of it, that’s what this city truly is.
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