Community invited to celebrate the Games at festivals and free skates

January 29, 2010 (No. 5) - The community is invited to come to Sunset Community Centre on Saturday, February 6 from 2 to 6pm to kick off the first of a series of free Community Happening festivals. The family friendly event is a celebration of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"Vancouver has a strong commitment to sport, culture and sustainability," said Park Board Chair Aaron Jasper. "This first Community Happening festival will be a very exciting start to the final week before the Games begin."

The day will include activities such as arts and crafts, games and sports, cultural performances and food.

Two additional Community Happening festivals take place from 2 to 6 pm on Saturday, March 6 at Kitsilano Community Centre and Sunday, March 21 at Killarney Community Centre.

Community Happening festivals are presented by the Vancouver Park Board and the City of Vancouver in partnership with local community and neighbourhood house associations.

The Park Board is also hosting a series of Paint the Town Red family skates from February 5 to 10 at various rinks. Show your pride by wearing red and skate for just $2. Complete details on these skates and other special 2010-related community events are available at vancouverparks.ca

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For more information contact Barb Floden, Communications Coordinator, at 604-257-8438.

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 220 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.