On April 18, the PNE announced that its annual fair would not be held at the end of the summer.
It was devastating news for so many that attend the popular event, but an understandable decision in light of COVID-19.
Today, however, PNE president and CEO Shelley Frost penned a letter to inform the public of some exciting news regarding the fair and Playland Amusement Park this summer.
Playland will be opening its gates next month, as Frost says they will “carefully reopen” the amusement park in phases over the summer.
Initially, between 10-12 of the park’s most popular, family-friend rides and attractions will open with enhanced safety protocols and every guest will get a fun face mask with their admission.
There will also be some other events held on the Pacific National Exhibition grounds over the next few months.
On Canada Day, the PNe will host a drive-thru “reverse” Canada Day parade, where families will be encouraged to dress up in red and white, decorate their cars and drive along the parade route.
“The experience will include Canadiana-themed entertainment and displays and a route that weaves drivers through the site and through the floor of the historic Pacific Coliseum,” she explained.
“Cars can also pre-order the food offerings that people have been asking for since starting our drive through series – corn dogs, hot dogs, fresh squeezed lemonade, cotton candy and, of course, a Canadian favourite – poutine.”
On the August long weekend, there will be another Taste of the PNE series that details will be released about on a later date.
Finally, a 2020 PNE Fair Experience will be staged in an unconventional fashion, one similar to their Canada Day celebrations.
“This will be a drive-thru experience that will include all your Fair favourites, from the Superdogs to agriculture exhibits and other family fun,” Frost wrote in her letter.
“The 2020 PNE Fair will bring British Columbians together (but apart) to create what may be the most unique Fairtime shared memory in our history.”
Frost concluded her letter by saying the PNE is still in a tough economic position, but these moves will allow them to recall hundreds of PNE Fair and Playland employees.
It’ll also provide desperately needed income for exhibitors, partners and concessionaires.
BC’s biggest waterpark finally opens for the summer on Wednesday
