Drinking in public plazas returns as permanent program for summer 2022

Two people sitting at an outdoor pop-up plaza on a sunny day

Plaza stewards and community partners are the uniting force of this program — thank you to our partners for the vital role you play in helping to keep these plazas and spaces feel safe, clean, and welcoming for all visitors.

Lisa Parker, Director of Public Space and Street Use

June 8 2022 –

Vancouver City Council approved turning the Drinking in Public Plazas Program into a permanent seasonal program following two summers as a successful pilot.

People looking for an outdoor space to enjoy take-out food, a moment of rest, or a picnic with friends and family can responsibly enjoy an alcoholic beverage at six designated Vancouver public plazas this summer. 

“While the pandemic brought immense challenges to Vancouver, it also helped us to innovate with initiatives like the Drinking in Public Plazas Program, which I’m excited to see return this summer,” says Mayor Kennedy Stewart. “To the many people like me who do not have access to a backyard or private outdoor space, these plazas give us all a chance to connect and socialize with one another while enjoying a drink outside.”

Plaza locations

As part of the 2022 program, visitors can responsibly consume alcohol at the following six participating plazas, which will operate from 11am to 9pm daily, June 15 to October 16, 2022: 

  • Cambie St and 17th Ave (Plaza steward: Cambie Village Business Association)
  • Granville St and 13th Ave – (South Granville Business Improvement Association) 
  • Granville St and 14th Ave – (South Granville Business Improvement Association)
  • Lot 19, 855 West Hastings St – (Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association)
  • Main St and 21st Ave – (Coco et Olive, Little Mountain Neighbourhood House, residents)
  • Maple St and 4th Ave – (Kitsilano West 4th Avenue Business Improvement Association)

“Plaza stewards and community partners are the uniting force of this program — thank you to our partners for the vital role you play in helping to keep these plazas and spaces feel safe, clean, and welcoming for all visitors,” says Lisa Parker, Director of Public Space and Street Use

Most plazas are within walking distance to essential public amenities like washrooms, but for those without existing washrooms nearby, temporary portable washrooms will be installed. 

The Drinking in Public Plazas Program was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to support residents and businesses.

Read the
Council report (555 KB)

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