CELEBRATION CENTRE was central command for Celebration '90. It was located at the BC Pavilion and the Plaza of Nations, spaces which were created for Vancouver's World's Fair, "Expo '86". It was an information and registration center and included an Artisan Fair and Discotheque. Outside activities included a food fair, a beer and wine garden, and a stage for entertainment between noon and 10 PM daily.

OPENING & CLOSING CEREMONIES were held at B.C. Place Stadium, also leftover from Expo '86. Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, August 4th were of a ceremonious nature, featuring the Parade of Athletes. Closing Ceremonies, on Saturday, August 11th, were more of a celebration of the spirit of Gay Games.

Vancouver's gay and lesbian community created the "Tom Waddell Trophy" as a gift to the Federation of Gay Games to be presented at the Closing Ceremonies as an award to the "Most Outstanding Participant" of Gay Games III and at each of the following Gay Games. The recipient of the award would be an individual who inspires great pride in sports, culture, or volunteerism, and one who has participated at his or her personal best. At Gay Games III, Paul Mart became the first to receive the Tom Waddell Award.

The Opening and Closing Ceremonies of "Celebration '90" were broadcast live in Vancouver on CFRO-FM. The station also presented a one-hour special and 2 updates every day of the Games.

Thanks to the dedication and determination of the gay and lesbian community of Vancouver, British Columbia, Tom Waddell's dream became an international movement.