Vancouver’s iconic “Laughing Men” statues have taken on a new look as they don friendship bracelets for the city’s “Eras Tour.”
The beloved statues, located at the corner of Davie and Denman streets, have been adorned with colorful friendship bracelets as part of a new initiative by the Vancouver Park Board.
The bracelets, which were handmade by local artists, represent the different eras of Vancouver’s history and serve as a symbol of unity and friendship.
According to Park Board Chair Camil Dumont, the bracelets are a way to celebrate the city’s diverse and vibrant past.
“These statues have been a beloved part of Vancouver’s landscape for over 30 years, and we wanted to find a way to honor the city’s rich history while also promoting friendship and inclusivity,” Dumont said.
The “Eras Tour” is a self-guided walking tour that takes visitors through different eras of Vancouver’s history, from the First Nations settlements to the modern-day city. The tour also highlights important landmarks and events that have shaped the city into what it is today.
The addition of the friendship bracelets to the Laughing Men statues has been met with positive reactions from both locals and tourists.
“I think it’s a beautiful way to showcase the diversity and inclusivity of Vancouver,” said local resident Sarah Thompson. “It’s a small gesture, but it speaks volumes about the city’s values.”
The bracelets will remain on the statues for the duration of the “Eras Tour,” which runs until the end of the year. After that, they will be auctioned off with all proceeds going towards local charities.
The Laughing Men statues, created by artist Yue Minjun, have become a popular tourist attraction since their installation in 2009. The addition of the friendship bracelets adds a new layer of meaning to these already beloved statues.
As Vancouver continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like the “Eras Tour” and the friendship bracelets serve as a reminder of the city’s past and a celebration of its present and future.
