Canada Place is celebrating 40 years as one of Canada’s most recognizable landmarks on Vancouver’s waterfront. Since opening on May 2, 1986, as the Canada Pavilion for Expo 86, it has become a popular destination for residents and visitors, a venue for major public events, and home to the Port of Vancouver’s award-winning cruise terminal.
Canada Place was developed as part of Expo 86 through a shared vision between federal, provincial, and municipal partners to create a vibrant, multi‑use waterfront destination. Located on Pier B–C, the site traces its origins to 1927, when it was built to serve Canadian Pacific Railway and global shipping lines. Today, its iconic white sails, designed to resemble a ship under full sail, are regularly illuminated to mark national days, community events and notable milestones, making them a defining feature of Vancouver’s skyline.
“For four decades, Canada Place has been part of everyday life on the Vancouver waterfront—welcoming visitors from around the world and serving as a gathering space to create lasting memories,” said Cliff Stewart, Canada Place Corporation president and vice president of operations and supply chain at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. “From Expo 86 to today, Canada Place has grown alongside the city and remains a lasting symbol of Canada on the waterfront.”
Beyond its origins as the Canada Pavilion for Expo 86, Canada Place has evolved into a premier gathering place for public events and celebrations. It hosts major moments such as the annual July 1 festivities, now known as Canada Together, and Port Day, which celebrates the region’s maritime community.
For many travellers, Canada Place offers a spectacular first impression of Vancouver, serving as both the start and end of their cruise journey. As the home of the Port of Vancouver’s cruise terminal, the port has welcomed more than 30 million passengers and more than 10,000 cruise ship calls since opening the terminal.
