Nearly 15 years ago, a mysterious sign appeared in Vancouver’s Guelph Park that would completely change the park’s trajectory — and history — forever. It was a simple sign that read “Dude Chilling Park,” mimicking standard park signs found across the city. It was an immediate hit with the Mount Pleasant community, but was promptly removed by Park Board staff in November 2012.
Soon enough, 1,500 signatures appeared on a request from residents to reinstall the sign. Unauthorized or not, “Dude Chilling” represented the unique character of the park and the community at large, and people wanted to see it become a permanent fixture.
The origins of “Dude Chilling”
According to the City, the original Dude Chilling Park sign was erected by guerrilla artist Viktor Briestensky, who wanted to light-heartedly reference another public art piece called “Reclining Figure” that was installed by Michael Dennis in 1991.
Originally, Guelph Park was named in 1972 after a bordering street, which was itself given the family name of Queen Victoria.
“Guelph Park is an ideal place for morning exercise or an evening stroll. An open walkway in the centre of the park connects a tree-lined field and a recreation area with playground and tennis courts. Whether visiting the park to sit on a shaded bench or to play a game of tennis, Guelph is sure to be a pleasant retreat,” a write-up on the City’s website reads.
Flash forward to Feb. 3, 2014, and the Park Board officially accepted the Dude Chilling Park sign as a donation, reinstalling it along East 8th Avenue and Brunswick Street.
Today, Dude Chilling Park is world-famous, and apparently is one of the most-searched terms related to Canada on Google. The landmark sign has appeared in Atlas Obscura and Condé Nast, though it is still routinely stolen. However, it always makes its way back home!
A free beer and music festival
Park-goers can enjoy a shaded game of cards, a couple of rounds of tennis, and soon, the summertime Chillin’ in the Park Music Festival. Every year, the iconic park throws a free beer and music festival that epitomizes its name. Picture picnic blankets sprawled across the grass, lawn chairs to lounge in, live music, and food and drink vendors galore.
This year, food and drink vendors include Main Street Brewing, Brassneck, Steamworks, The Pleasant, Carp Sushi, and AJ’s Pizza.
The third annual festival takes place on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Note that the festivities are all-ages, and pets are welcome so long as they are leashed.
In addition to two tennis courts and a playground, the park consists of a community garden, volleyball net poles, and an art exchange.
When: Saturday, July 26, 2025
Time: 1 to 7 p.m.
Where: 2390 Brunswick St.
Cost: Free admission
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