While students will be out of classes for spring break (scheduled from March 16 to 27 in Vancouver), many usual recreational activities may not be available due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Science World announced on March 13 that it will remain closed until April 6 during spring break.

Science World stated that while no incidents related to COVID-19 have been identified at their venue, the decision to close is based on “an abundance of caution based on the unique interactive, hands-on nature of our facility and our ability to manage social distancing”.

The staff, who will be paid according to scheduled hours, will use the time to “deep clean and disinfect” the facility.

However, Science World will be providing science-related activities through their online channels.

Also in the tech sector, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced on March 13 that all Apple stores outside of Greater China will remain closed until March 27.

That includes locations in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Surrey.

Meanwhile, several outdoor activities are also being impacted. 

Vail Resorts announced that it is suspending operations, including stores and restaurants, at all of its North American mountain resorts from March 15 to 22, which includes Whistler Blackcomb.

An update on the remainder of the season will be provided on March 20. For further information, visit the Whistler Blackcomb website.

SilverStar Mountain Resort in the Okanagan is also closing from March 15 to 22, including all food and beverage operations, lifts, and retail and rental operations. Lodging and management facilities will remain open for current guests and reservations but no new reservations are being taken for the remainder of March. 

During the closure, the resort will reassess the situation for the remainder of the season. 

The Vancouver Marathon, scheduled for May 3, announced that the 2020 iteration of the race has been cancelled, based on the B.C. directive to cancel all activities with 250 or more people.

While the marathon is unable to refund registrants, they are offering the opportunity to pick up shirts and medals, free entry into the Fall Classic 2020 Half Marathon, and a discount (minimum 20 percent off) to the 2021 Vancouver Marathon, scheduled for May 2, 2021.

Information about COVID-19 in B.C. is available at the B.C. Centre for Disease Control website.