A hockey championship was won on Vancouver ice for the first and only time and, in what was likely another first, people seemingly went out of their way to talk to one another.
It was almost like all of Vancouver was having fun — at least for a brief, fleeting moment.
Indeed, the 2010 Winter Olympics was unlike any other time in our city’s history, and now it’s time to look back at those magical days, 10 years later.
Commemorative events running Feb. 11 to Feb. 22 will include a slew of activities, including curling, family skates, pin exchanges and a large object being lit aflame that’s not a doobie.
- Feb 11 to Feb. 17: Park board community centres across the city will play host to “Community Living Rooms.” Watch event highlights and be reminded of what the Olympics are all about, minus the rampant corruption and doping: friendship, solidarity, peace, fair play, optimism, inspiration and empowerment. Info at vancouver.ca.
- Feb. 14: Is there anything more romantic to kick off Valentine’s Day than throwing rocks around an ice cold rink while yelling “Hurry hard!”? Of course not. A free try-it event to get to know the basics of curling runs 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Vancouver Curling Club at Hillcrest Centre. All equipment is supplied, accredited coaches will be on hand and the day ends off with a mini game to put the numerous skills you’ll learn to the test. Pre-registration required. Info at vancouver.ca.
- Feb. 14 and 15: If nothing else, you can earn street cred with young people by proclaiming you’re going to an event that’s “lit.” Illuminate Yaletown runs 5:30 to 9 p.m. on the 1200 block of Hamilton Street and Bill Curtis Square (behind Yaletown-Roundhouse Station). All-ages activities include games, light shows, installations and endless opportunities to light up your otherwise uninspiring Instagram feed. Super. Info at yaletowninfo.com.
- Feb. 15: Do people still collect pins? Find out from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., when the 2010 Winter Games Pin Exchange goes down at the Creekside Community Centre in Olympic Village. All ages, free. Info at vancouver.ca.
- Feb. 16: Move over Columbus Blue Jackets, you’ve got company. The 2010 Blue Jacket Volunteer Celebration runs 10 a.m. to noon as a way to give thanks and share memories among those who worked behind the scenes during the Olympics. Free coffee and snacks will be offered at the Creekside Community Centre, multipurpose room 4. Info at eventbrite.com.
- Feb. 17: It’s the kind of event that has “groin tear” written all over it but, as they say, fortune favours the brave. “Train Like an Olympian” runs from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Creekside Community Centre’s fitness centre, giving participants a chance to take part in a 10-station, 10-round, high-intensity Olympian inspired workout. Pre-registration is required in person, by phone or online. Make like Joanne McLeod and Hal Johnson and “Keep fit and have fun!” Good luck. Info at vancouver.ca.
- Feb. 17: A host of “Wear Red” Family Day skates are planned at rinks across the city. In case it wasn’t obvious, participants are encouraged to don the red and white. The Hillcrest Arena skate runs 9:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., the Killarney skate goes 10:15 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., and the Trout Lake event is scheduled from 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $2 per person over the age of six. Otherwise, regular Leisure Access Program rates for things like skate sharpening will be applied. Info at vancouver.ca.
- Feb. 17: Give wheelchair curling a go from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Killarney Community Centre Gymnasium. The event is free and will be adapted to curling on the floor versus the ice, whether standing or sitting. All equipment will be provided. Info at vancouver.ca.
- Feb. 17: The B.C. Sports Hall of Fame hosts a humdinger of a free Olympic celebration from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at B.C. Place. The newly refurbished Vancouver 2010 Gallery features the largest collection of 2010 Olympic artifacts in Vancouver, including an official podium from the games. Equipment, memorabilia, live demonstrations and game-worn gear from Olympians will be in the offing, along with a chance to emulate Sidney Crosby’s “Golden Goal” in the Hall’s participation zone. And, of course, no event would be complete without a photobooth where attendees can have their photo taken with one of the Olympic torches. Info at bcsportshall.com.
- Feb. 22: The warm and fuzzy feelings of nostalgia get ramped up to 11 at the 2010 Games 10 Year Anniversary Fan Festival at Jack Poole Plaza. Running 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the penultimate celebration will include Olympic and Paralympic Athlete meet-and-greets, sport demonstrations, main stage programming, face painting and more. The cauldron will be lit at 5:30 p.m., followed by live music. The event is free. Info at olympic.ca/vancouver-2010-10th-anniversary-celebration.
