Alright, so the Vancouver Sevens rolled around again this year, 2024. I’d been to a few before, always a pretty wild time, so I figured I’d check it out again. Wasn’t sure what to expect this time, things always change a bit year to year.
Getting tickets was straightforward enough. Just went online a while back and snagged a weekend pass. Seemed easier than some years, maybe less initial rush? Hard to tell. Anyway, got that sorted without much fuss.
Heading Down and Getting In
Come Saturday morning, I decided to head down. Took the train, figured parking would be a nightmare, and it usually is. The train was already getting full with people in costumes, which is always half the fun of this thing. Lots of energy even before getting near the stadium.
Got to BC Place, and yeah, crowds were building. The entry process wasn’t too bad, moved relatively quickly considering the number of people funneling in. Security did their thing, scanned the ticket, and then you’re inside.
The Vibe Inside
First thing that hits you is just the noise and the sheer number of people. It’s a spectacle. Folks go all out with the costumes. You see everything imaginable. It’s less about the actual rugby for a lot of people, more just a massive party.
Found a decent spot to perch for a bit. The energy in the building was definitely high. Lots of cheering, music blasting between games, people dancing in the aisles. It’s infectious, even if you’re just sitting back and watching.
- So many different costumes, some really creative.
- The noise level was intense, especially when the home team played.
- Lots of groups just having a massive party in their seats.
Watching the Games (Sort Of)
I did watch some of the actual rugby! Caught several matches throughout the day. Saw Canada play, which is always interesting with the home crowd behind them. Argentina looked really strong this year, fast and skilled. Ireland too. Didn’t catch every single game, wandered around a bit, grabbed some food.
Honestly, you dip in and out of focusing on the games. Sometimes you’re deep into a close match, other times you’re just people-watching or chatting with folks around you.
Food, Drinks, and The Usual
Speaking of food and drinks… well, stadium prices are stadium prices. Grabbed a beer, cost an arm and a leg, no surprise there. Food options were the usual suspects – burgers, fries, pizza. Lines were long around peak times. Just gotta time it right or be prepared to wait.
Wrapping Up the Day
Spent most of Saturday there. By late afternoon, you start feeling it. It’s a long day of noise and crowds. Decided to head out before the absolute final whistle, beat some of the rush leaving the stadium. Train back was just as packed as the ride in.
Overall? Yeah, it was a good time. It’s a unique Vancouver event, that’s for sure. Felt maybe a little different than the peak years, perhaps? Or maybe I’m just getting older. But still, a fun experience to see the city buzzing and everyone letting loose for a weekend. Worth doing if you haven’t before, just be ready for the chaos and the cost.
