In a spectacular display of Olympic spirit, PavCo and the Vancouver Convention Centre recently hosted two memorable cauldron lighting ceremonies at Jack Poole Plaza, setting the stage for the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. Each event featured a glowing cauldron burning brightly for two hours, reflecting our community's deep connection and enthusiasm for the upcoming Games.

“We’re excited to have celebrated the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games with our community,” says Craig Lehto, General Manager of the Vancouver Convention Centre. “But beyond that, we were proud to honour the remarkable dedication of our athletes who proudly represent Canada in these Games.”

Olympic Cauldron Lighting - July 26

On July 26, we celebrated the Olympic Games with a lively and inspiring ceremony. The event was a vibrant reminder of Vancouver’s proud legacy as a former host city of the 2010 Games. Keynote speaker Matt Mullins, a former Rugby Sevens Olympian and Convention Centre employee, shared captivating stories from the Tokyo 2020 Games, while speed skating Olympic medalist, Christine Nesbitt, added to the event’s excitement.

There were several other Olympians, like Jason Burnett and Alycia Butterworth, who mingled with guests and brought an extra touch of Olympic spirit. Speeches from the Honourable Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI) and the Consul General of France in Vancouver and other special guests elevated the event, making it a truly memorable occasion.

Paralympic Cauldron Lighting - August 28

The excitement on August 28 was palpable as we celebrated the Paralympic Games, bolstered by our collaboration with Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. The event showcased an impressive roster of speakers, including Ken Cretney, President and CEO of PavCo; Craig Lehto, General Manager of the Vancouver Convention Centre; and Roger Dall’Antonia, President and CEO of FortisBC. Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, a Councillor from Squamish Nation, provided a poignant land acknowledgment, connecting the ceremony to our community’s rich heritage.

Phil Wizard, the Olympic Breaking Gold Medalist from the 2024 Paris Games, delighted attendees with an inspiring speech, rallying support for the Paris Paralympians. Jeffrey Becker, a prominent Invictus Winter Games athlete, offered a heartfelt reflection on the significance of the Invictus Games. The gathering was further honoured by the presence of former Paralympians, including the esteemed Daniel Westley, a four-time Paralympic champion.

A Celebration of Unity and Athleticism

A huge thank you to everyone who joined and supported these celebrations. Let’s carry forward this spirit of unity and excellence as we cheer on our athletes in Paris!