Chilliwack History Feature: The “P” In Paramount Alley
The Paramount Theatre & the “P” in Paramount Alley
Did you know?
If you’ve ever walked through Paramount Alley across from District 1881 and spotted the giant glowing “P,” you might wonder what it means. That letter isn’t random art — it’s a tribute to one of downtown Chilliwack’s most beloved landmarks: the Paramount Theatre.
The Paramount opened in 1949 and quickly became the heart of the community. With nearly 900 seats, a neon-lit marquee, and a candy bar that locals still talk about, it was the place to catch a movie for over 60 years. Generations of families saw their first films there, went on dates, and lined up around the block for big premieres.
After closing in 2010, the theatre was demolished in 2013, despite strong efforts to save it. Today, the building is gone — but the legacy remains. The “P” sign in Paramount Alley was recreated to honour the theatre’s memory and give a nod to the past in the middle of a changing downtown.
👉 Next time you see the “P,” think of it as a glowing reminder of Chilliwack’s movie-going history.