The largest public event in British Columbia will return with a bang as the Honda Celebration of Light and an astounding display of fireworks takes place July 22nd, July 26th, and July 29th in the sky above Vancouver.
A feature that has become a staple of the annual event is the Red Bull Air Show, with Pete McLeod performing his dazzling, jaw dropping display of aerobatics each evening at 7:40pm.
McLeod, a professional aerobatic pilot, is an iconic aviation figure globally. He is one of Red Bull’s top Air Race Pilots, taking his first ride at just six weeks of age with his father, who is also a pilot.
“Being in the cockpit is better than any thrill ride you can imagine,” says McLeod. “You have a kind of freedom where you aren’t constrained whatsoever. When you include the precision required and perform as close to the water as I do at an event like the Honda Celebration of Light, there is absolutely zero margin for error. The danger level is real.”
McLeod performs around the world but says that there is nothing like performing in Canada and suggests the Honda Celebration of Light is the highlight of his Canadian schedule. McLeod’s pre-show sky performances taking place all three evenings will thrill attendees with aerobatic tricks, free-fall dives, flips, spins, and top speeds while he glides close to the waters of English Bay beach.
At 10:00 p.m. each night the fireworks will begin from barges located in English Bay. Music simulcast can be heard on CFMI Rock 101. The winning team will be announced on Tuesday, August 2nd.
Saturday, July 22nd – Australia – Howard & Sons
Howard & Sons Pyrotechnics are leaders in pyrotechnic innovation for a reason. From producing a firework display for the opening of Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932 & the Opera House in 1973 to winning silver in the Celebration of Light in 2016, producing the highest quality fireworks in the world is what they continue to do best.
Wednesday, July 26th – Mexico – Grupo AVACON
Grupo AVACON has been providing the highest quality pyrotechnic shows since 2009. Their extensive experience has given Grupo AVACON the opportunity to show their talent internationally and participate in some of the most popular contests and festivals in Mexico, while also performing almost every day of the year for the best hotels and companies in the country.
Saturday, July 29th – The Philippines – Blue Peacock
Blue Peacock Fireworks is regarded as one of The Philippines’ promising names in the pyrotechnic industry and has won more awards than all competing companies. Their team not only became part of history by culminating the 100th Philippines Independence Celebration but also was the first ever team to set up a pyro-musical show using the SkyRanch Eye, the tallest Ferris Wheel in The Philippines, so be ready for a colourful show.
Last modified: July 18, 2023
