There’s no surer sign that summer’s just around the corner than seeing Playland’s iconic wooden rollercoaster fire up its first ride of the season.
The amusement park — one of Vancouver’s most popular annual attractions — will open its doors for its 99th year on Saturday morning, and in the meantime, staff members are hard at work attending to finishing touches.
“This is a very busy week but it’s also an exciting week,” said Laura Ballance, communications director for Playland.
“Right now we’re doing last-minute stuff … Individual ride consultants are coming in to do inspections and they go over (rides) with a fine-tooth comb.”
Ballance said the highlight, as always, will be the wooden rollercoaster, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.
“It is really a part of the fabric of this city,” she said, adding that it’s a pleasure to work in her office and hear shrieks and laughter all day.
“It’s a sign of summer, and certainly a tradition for generations (of Lower Mainlanders).”
Opening
• Around 2,000 people are expected to attend the opening day of Playland on Saturday.
• The park will be open on weekends and holidays until school is out for the summer, then will be open daily until the Labour Day weekend.
