Despite all the traffic jams, line-ups, and crowds, the 2010 Winter Olympics is an amazing opportunity for ESL students to learn about Canada and the diverse culture from coast to coast.
Even if you are not into sports, drinking beer, or cheering for Canada's hockey team, there are countless cultural events and concerts that represent what it means to be Canadian. Below is a list of all the Pavilions that represent Canada's unique culture.
Aboriginal Pavilion
This pavilion represent the diversity in the aboriginal populations of Canada. It features the culture of various First Nation, Inuit, and Metis peoples.
Location: Georgia & Hamilton (in the plaza at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre)
Events: Daily concerts and exhibits.
www.fourhostfirstnations.com
Alberta House
This house features information about living, working, playing, and investing in Alberta. Every evening the plaza will offer free entertainment featuring 40 of Alberta’s established and emerging musicians and artists. The plaza will also showcase Alberta’s diverse cuisine with food and beverage sales offered to the public.Location: Robson at Beatty (West of BC Place)
Events: Evening concert series for FREE
www.alberta.ca/vancouver2010/alberta-house.htm
Atlantic Canada House
Atlantic Canada's best will hit the stage during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador along with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency will present at the Atlantic Canada House.Location: The Arts Club Theatre on Granville Island (accessible from the Olympic Line Streetcar)
Events: Performances featuring all the best from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador for FREE
www.vancouveraccess2010.com/atlantic-canada-house/
British Columbia Pavilion
The BC pavilion showcases interactive displays that will highlight the rich cultural fabric of both British Columbia and Canada.This downtown hub also features the International Media Centre where several live broadcasts are taking place, the Ziptrek line over Robson Square, and the GE Plaza skating rink. A special Leonardo Da Vinci exhibit is available for public viewing at the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Location: Vancouver Art Gallery, 4th floor (Located between Hornby & Howe, Robson & Georgia)
Events: A showcase of the “Best of BC” in terms of sustainability, new media, tourism and culture. Activities daily and a 4D theatre. All events are FREE
www.yougottabehere.com
Canada’s Northern House
Visitors to Northern House will be greeted at the entrance by an inuksuk built by former Nunavut Commissioner Peter Irniq, using stone from Nunavut, Northwest Territories and British Columbia. Canada’s Northern House will showcase talented performers such as Artcirq and throat singers, drum dancers, and traditional games athletes during the Olympic Games.
Location: 602 West Hastings (at Seymour)
Events: daily performances featuring the best of the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Events are FREE
www.canadasnorth.com/northernhouseCentrePlace Manitoba
The centre is a 2,560 sq ft, pre-fabricated, sustainable building featuring Manitoba products and technology. Multimedia exhibits, developed in Manitoba, will showcase tourism, business, immigration and sport and highlight our province’s prosperity, opportunity and potential. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights will be a partner and have a feature exhibit in the pavilion.Location: Located at Georgia & Cambie
Events: Open January 22nd to March 21st, featuring concerts from 30 Manitoba artists.
www.gov.mb.ca/centreplace/Ontario House will offer visitors a unique, one-of-a-kind, inspirational experience that will live on in their memories for years to come and reinforce Ontario’s Olympic brand message — “There’s No Place Like This…”
Location: Concord Pacific (between Science World & GM Place)
Events: Daily lineup of concerts in the evening all for FREE
Quebec House (Maison Quebec)
The pavilion will show thousands of foreign visitors the distinctiveness of Quebec culture, expertise and tourist attractions. For Quebecers coming to participate in Olympic events in Vancouver, Quebec House will be the place to assemble. Many Quebec artists will perform at the House from the 12th to 28th of February.Location: Concord Pacific (between Science World & GM Place)
Events: Expect it to become a centre piece of Quebec culture and food over the course of the Games.
www.citycaucus.com/2010venues/quebec-houseThis Pavilion consists of two structures. One will house a business centre, the other an entertainment venue featuring entertainment and food.Location: Concord Pacific (between Science World & GM Place)
Events: Daily entertainment for FREE.
www.saskpavilion.comWhat are you waiting for? Check out Canada's unique culture at the 2010 Olympics without leaving Vancouver.
I was out last night (Wednesday) checking the free events. By far the Quebec house was the best. The music was good, there was no line-up ,and I could drink beer. I was surprised how Vancouver has been transformed into this international party. Everywhere I turned there were live performances, friendly faces and a good vibe. I'm not into much into sports, but the free concerts you don't want to miss.
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