I was brought up in Vancouver, B.C. and worked there until I moved east. Those pictures of people sitting around having fun were probably taken on a weekend and might even be tourists. B.C. and the west coast was/is considered a haven for the retired. Our capital, Victoria, on Vancouver Island was aptly described as for 'the newly wed or nearly dead', in jest of course, but there is some truth to it.
The hippies have been long gone since early 70s at least, cut their hair and are now well off entrepreneurs, owning some of that prime real estate property.
Toronto, where I live now is a fantastic place - visitors are always welcome and yes, we like it clean!