Normally when spring arrives in Vancouver kids – and kids at heart – start the countdown to the fun of rides, games and treats at Playland.
For 2020, however, Playland has announced that they will be delaying the seasonal amusement park's opening date by a month, due to COVID-19.
Playland says they plan to open in early June.
"We are fully committed to our mission of building social connections and bringing people together in a safe way and therefore, in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with a delayed opening. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Playland in June," reads the Playland website.
"We thank you for your support and will continue to communicate with you as we navigate through this ever changing time. In the meantime, we urge everyone to exercise the recommended preventative measures to keep your families safe, and we look forward to seeing you at the PNE soon."
Currently, the City of Vancouver has ordered that there be no gatherings of 50 or more people, and is expecting all people city-wide to adhere to social distancing policies. Recreational facilities have been shut down for nearly two weeks now, and events have been cancelled or postponed – including many that were to take place on the PNE grounds, where Playland is also located.
There is no set date for the COVID-19 groups, events, and social distancing measures, so it is possible Playland might have to push their opening date further. We'll keep you posted.
In the meantime, you'll have to add a few weeks to your anticipated first ride on one of the world's best wooden roller coasters.
Plus, to keep kids busy while at home, Playland's website features a downloadable colouring sheet of last summer's debut ride, the Sea-to-Sky Swinger – the aerial swings featuring B.C.-inspired designs.
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