Chilliwack’s LED drone light show a go for Canada Day, unless high winds derail it

Councillor Nicole Read complimented city staff for coming up with something unique to Chilliwack, and asked Lindhout whether the drones were weather dependent.

“That was one of the questions we did ask,” Lindhout said. “The drones they do use would be a lot less restrictive as far as environmental conditions. If it’s a light sprinkle, they can continue on. Cloud cover has no bearing on it. Literally,P the only environmental concern would be high winds, which typically in the summer we’re not getting the outflow winds. From a weather perspective, the chances are a lot higher that a drone show can take place versus fireworks for whatever reasons, be it wind or especially rain.”

The light show will be held at Townsend Park because it can meet all the safety buffer requirements, Lindhout said.

Assuming all goes well this year, the city of Chilliwack is not contractually obligated beyond the current year.

“This is just for one year,” Lindhout assured councillors. “We’re not committed for the long term. Other communities have started to explore this, especially with talk of the drought and extended fire season.”

In response to a question from Councillor Bud Mercer about any altitude restrictions in proximity to the Chilliwack Airport, Lindhout said the drones used in this particular light show are considered micro drones and are exempt from air space regulations.

According to a report prepared by Carol Marleau, manager of recreation services for the City of Chilliwack, city staff had been exploring alternatives that would deliver the same kind of experience as fireworks but without the hazards associated with pyrotechnics. Marleau wrote in her report that drone light shows have emerged as a growing trend in entertainment. They’re thought to be more environmentally friendly with less noise, minimal light and air pollution, and more suitable for individuals who are neuro-divergent.

Marleau wrote in her staff report that drone light shows are performed by illuminated, synchronized and choreographed clusters of drones that are configured into assorted aerial formations. They’re typically designed and powered through advanced software and GPS coordinate positioning.

The city celebrated its 150th anniversary in November 2023 with a spectacular fireworks show, months after the busy fire season amid fire bans across the province.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

Chilliwack’s LED drone light show a go for Canada Day, unless high winds derail it

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