Playland and the PNE

The fair at the PNE is a Vancouver family tradition that has spanned generations. This year will be the 100 year anniversary! The PNE or Playland (yes, they are different) is a whole day outing and is super fun, but it does come with a steep price tag. Here are a few tips for saving at the PNE.

• Playland or The PNE, which to choose? If you aren't excited about the PNE but you want to go on rides, go to Playland. The PNE is the last two weeks of August and ends on Labour Day. Every other day of the summer it is Playland. The difference is that Playland is rides and games. The PNE has a market place and an extra section with parades, shows, entertainment, etc. You will save about $15 per person if you go to Playland, however remember that it is ONLY rides and games. If you don't like amusement park rides, you shouldn't go.
• The PNE has free concerts at night each night of the fair. This year highlights include Cindy Lauper, Michael Bolton, Mariana's Trench, Loverboy, Joan Jett and much more. Get a sitter and go to the PNE in the evening with just the adults. Walk around the market, see the booths, taste the cuisine, and see a show. A fun evening out.
• Always pre-purchase your tickets. You can pre-buy your tickets at many local retailers (7-11, Safeway, online here) This will save you about $5 per person.
• Pack a Lunch. White Spot is the official supplier of Playland and the PNE. I do notice that the staff at playland do not know how to serve hot food. The food is expensive, and does not taste very good. We have friends who are vegetarians, and they find it difficult to eat there. Try to pack a lunch and some water to bring with you. Snacks for your little ones in ziploc bags or in small containers is a great idea and this makes it easy to pull out and give to them before a melt down ensues. You will save $30-50 per family of 4 if you pack a lunch instead of buy one.
• If you plan on drinking any fountain pop while you are there, buy a "Helevator Cup". This is a reusable cup that costs $9 to buy, but refills are free from any Playland food vending station. You CANNOT use the helevator cup at the PNE food vendors. If you already have one, make sure to bring it with you when you go back, it is only $5 to re-use it another day! A regular soda will run you about $3-5 each time, so depending on how much pop you drink, this cup is a significant savings!

Have a great time this year celebrating 100 years at the PNE or at Playland. Remember to bring water and sunscreen for your little ones and for you. It does get very hot, and they do not sell sunscreen for you to purchase. Get there as close to opening as possible. It gets very busy as the day goes on, and kids can get on rides faster and have less melt downs if there is less waiting in line.

For any information about Playland or the PNE, click here.