Regardless of the season, there is always so much to do in Vernon. Like many cities in the Okanagan Valley the city shines in the summer. The hot, sunny weather, the premier beaches on Lake Okanagan coupled with the many summer events attract both tourists and locals. One of the top real estate agents in Vernon has provided a list of annual events taking place in the city.
Canada Day Celebrations
Canada Day in Vernon is an all family event that you will not want to miss. The place to be is Armstrong Memorial Park. Make sure to get there early and bring your blanket or lawn chair to enjoy live music, entertainment, games and food. Mark your calendar for some good old fashioned family fun and help us celebrate Canada Day Vernon style.
Canada Day fireworks are bigger and bolder every year. The show is always choreographed to music, which is broadcast through the local radio station, called Beach Radio. They will be held off Kin Beach on Lake Okanagan and the best viewing areas include:
- Paddlewheel Park
- Bella Vista Road
- The Commonage
- Bench Row Road
The Canada Day fireworks show begins at 10:30 pm.
Farmers Market
The Vernon Farmer’s Market is one of the oldest Farmer’s Markets in the Okanagan Valley. This local favourite is home to over 100 annual growers and artisans that offer everything from fresh fruit and vegetables as well as handmade products and crafts. The market runs every Monday and Thursday from 8 am until 1 pm, rain or shine throughout the summer. Make sure to be a part of this local tradition.
Historic O’Keefe Ranch – Corn Maze
The historic O’Keefe Ranch has been a part of Vernon’s cultural heritage since 1867. The ranch was turned into a historic site in the mid 1960’s and in 1967, it was opened to the public. Today it is a picturesque wedding venue, a tourist attraction, an RV campsite and museum. The ranch also hosts special events throughout the year.
The summertime corn maze is a family fun event hosted by the O’Keefe Ranch. Come find your way through three separate corn mazes. Each one takes between 20 to 30 minutes to complete and is full of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Take your time or make it a race to see who finishes first. Either way O’Keefe’s corn mazes promise to be an a-maze-ing time for all. ☺
Sunshine Festival
The Vernon downtown business core is excited to host the 24th annual Sunshine Festival. It is the city’s largest street festival that stretches over six blocks. It offers over 20 food trucks and live entertainment on two separate stages. Make sure to check out the local businesses and the over 150 vendors for great deals on one of a kind items. This family friendly event also offers a bouncy castle and 8 other child-friendly activities. Make sure to be a part of this popular Vernon summer festival.
These are just a few of the many local events and festivals that take place every year in Vernon over the summer months.