Whistler residents and visitors are invited to help kick off the 2013 International Luge Federation's (FIL) Luge World Championships with an opening ceremony celebration on Wednesday (Jan. 30) in Village Square.
The opening ceremonies will include a free concert by the energetic Vancouver indie band The Boom Booms and is funded through the Resort Municipality of Whistler's Festivals Events and Animation program.
A parade of athletes will begin in Whistler Olympic Plaza at 6:45 p.m. and make its way to Village Square for the celebration starting at 7 p.m. Festivities include the national anthem being sung by local singer Rachel Thom, a blessing from the Squamish First Nations Eagle Song Dancers and finishes with The Boom Booms.
The band, known for their mash-ups of pop, hip hop, reggae, soul and funk, played as part of the 2012 summer Whistler Presents: Concert Series
Those in attendance are encouraged to wear their best red and white attire to cheer on the Canadian team as they prepare to go head-to-head against the world's best luge athletes. More than 150 athletes from 23 countries will be participating in men's and women's races.
The World Championships are produced by FIL and the Canadian Luge Association and are held at the Whistler Sliding Centre on Feb. 1 and 2.
Tickets for the weekend events are $10, while children six and under can attend for free. For race schedule and ticket sales visit whistler.com
