Mask up and get ready to party at the new Port Coquitlam Community Centre

Landscapers were putting the finishing touches to the Port Coquitlam Community Centre this week in time for the big grand opening tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 2.

The city has put together an afternoon of activities that will give many members of the public a first glance at this $132 million facility with its new pool, three arenas, library, gymnasium, and outdoor spray park, fitness areas, playgrounds and more.

Despite COVID-19, the city has a safe plan for welcoming the public, but you’ll need to follow some rules.

Here’s what you need to know about the event:

WEATHER

The weather will be cool but not rainy, but dress appropriately as many of the activities are outdoors.

PARKING

Free underground parking will be available at the facility located at 2150 Wilson Ave., with the three-hour limit waived for the day. But the facility is within walking distance from many homes and easy to access via transit. 

COVID

Wear a mask and bring your proof of your vaccine first dose (12 years and up). While masks aren’t required for outdoor activities they are recommended and many of the indoor activities will require these precautions.

PRE-REGISTRATION

Don’t be disappointed, some activities require pre-registration: Pre-registration is required through portcoquitlam.ca/register for public swimming, fitness classes and family arts activities.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

This is the biggest event the city has held since the pandemic started and promises to be a great day of live music and performances by award winning artists including headliner Daniel Wesley, food trucks and local craft beer, and a variety of free recreation activities including swimming and skating.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

• 12:30 p.m., Kelly Avenue: Ribbon cutting and Terry Fox recognition unveiling
• 12-6 p.m, north and south plazas: Outdoor activities including: Roving entertainers, family games, creative kids zone and a scavenger hunt
• Opportunities to win prizes, including drop-in passes and five family one-year One City passes
• Access to amenities including sport courts, playgrounds, water park and community gardens
• 12:45-6 p.m., south plaza: Outdoor site-wide liquor licence with on-site food and drink:
• Food trucks Old Country Pierogi, Little Devils Pizza and Tacofino
• Kinsmen serving beverages from local craft brewery/distilleries (last call 5:30 p.m.)
• 1-6 p.m., south plaza live concert: Main stage entertainment with host Mark Friebe of the Giggle Dam:
• 1:15 p.m.: Three-time Juno nominee Rick Scott with keyboard ace Nico Rhodes – family entertainment with audience participation
• 2:20 p.m.: BC Country Music Association nominee for Female Artist of the Year Shylo Sharity
• 3:25 p.m.: Headliner Daniel Wesley performing his recent hit “Ooo-ohh” and others from his nine beachy alt rock albums
• 5:15 p.m.: Two-time Western Canadian Music award winner Krystle Dos Santos – singing soulful Motown hits, R&B

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

12-6 p.m, Indoor Facilities: Free access to amenities including fitness centre, gymnasium, children’s centre, games room and other new spaces, plus free try-it activities, fitness classes, swimming and skating

Pre-registration is required through portcoquitlam.ca/register for public swimming, fitness classes and family arts activities.

• 12-6 p.m., Mabbett Hall: Exhibits, displays and community group showcase
• Free cookies, snacks and light refreshments to enjoy there and in Wilson Centre
• 1-5:30 p.m., Jon Baillie Arena: Skating and hockey demonstrations
• 12-6 p.m., Concession: Offering free popcorn
• 7 p.m., Jon Baillie Arena: Free Fire Fighters vs. RCMP exhibition hockey game, first-come first-entry (seating limited in line with Provincial Health Orders)

COVID RULES

Based on Provincial Health Orders, the following will apply for indoor activities:

Masks are required for anyone age 12 and up in all common indoor areas (may be removed during physical activity)

Vaccinations will not be required for access to:

• Pool and aquatic amenities – all ages
• Terry Fox Library – all ages

Proof of first-dose vaccinations and photo ID will be required for age 12+ for indoor event activities including:

• Fitness classes, weight rooms
• Family sport activities and spectating
• Exhibit areas, arts and craft activities
• Arena access for evening exhibition hockey game
• Wristbands will be available for easy in-out access