Powell Street Festival underway in new location due to park occupation

One of Vancouver’s longest running cultural festivals is in full swing this weekend but in a brand-new location.

The 38th annual Powell Street Festival was forced to set up along Alexander Street near Gastown because the usual location, Oppenheimer Park, was taken over by a protest camp set up by social housing advocates.

Thanks to the last minute move, the celebration of Japanese culture is now a car-free party spanning four city blocks.

Organizers say it was a bit of a scramble to make the adjustments but everything has gone well.

“It’s different for sure, not being in the park,” says organizer Kristen Lambertson. “But at the same time, it’s an awesome block party with a whole different feel.”

“Some people have told me it’s way more Japanese in the sense of what they do in Japan.”

The festival runs through tomorrow in the area around Alexander Street and Jackson Avenue.