New Temporary VANCOUVER Sign Illuminates Downtown for Winter

A new temporary sign spelling “VANCOUVER” has been unveiled in downtown Vancouver, just in time for the winter season. This illuminated installation, significantly larger than previous winter displays, is located on the north plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery on West Georgia Street. Positioned beside the city’s official Christmas tree and a Ferris wheel, the sign will remain in place until early 2026.

The new sign is part of the expanded winter programming under Destination Downtown Vancouver, an initiative designed to enhance the holiday atmosphere in the city. Formerly known as Liven Up, this initiative has introduced several festive elements, including the Ferris wheel, which will operate until the first week of January.

The temporary VANCOUVER sign is a continuation of a tradition that began in December 2023 at Canada Place Way. The initiative saw a similar sign return in Fall 2024 along the Coal Harbour seawall. This year’s display is a key feature of the “Lit Words” installations, which gained popularity last winter, particularly during the finale of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour in Vancouver.

In addition to the new sign, the winter programming features a variety of lighting displays across downtown Vancouver. The overhead “Canopy” installation, which consists of 3,000 programmable LED lights, has returned to Robson Square’s street-level plaza for its third consecutive winter season. Scheduled nighttime fire dance performances outside Canada Place further enhance the festive atmosphere.

The public response to the temporary signs has been overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors stopping to take photographs. This enthusiasm has sparked discussions about creating a permanent, year-round VANCOUVER sign. Unlike the lightweight, portable letters currently in use, the proposed installation will be designed to withstand physical contact, vandalism, and harsh weather conditions. It will also reflect local culture and civic pride more effectively.

Earlier this fall, the City of Vancouver initiated a search for First Nations artists to contribute to the design of the permanent sign, which will be constructed at the public plaza outside the Canada Place entrance. The goal is to have the permanent VANCOUVER sign installed by May 2026, aligning with the kickoff of the June 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As the festive season unfolds, the temporary VANCOUVER sign stands as a symbol of community spirit and celebration, while plans for a more enduring representation of the city’s identity take shape.