Tucked into the northeastern arm of the shimmering Shuswap Lake on one of four “arms” that give the region its name, this vibrant little city of just over  20,000 sits on the traditional territory of the Secwépemc Nation and delivers big on craft beverages, outdoor recreation, and local food culture. Whether you’re rolling in for a weekend escape or building out a longer Shuswap itinerary, Salmon Arm has the ale-venture you’ve been looking for. Here’s how to make the most of it.

Grab a Pint at Ricochet Brewing & Taphouse

Your Salmon Arm ale-venture starts downtown at Ricochet Brewing & Taphouse, the city’s newest and most buzzed-about craft beer destination. It is also Salmon Arm’s 2024 Business of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year in 2025. The beer itself is brewed lakeside in Sunnybrae on the sunny shores of Shuswap Lake, then poured fresh at the vibrant downtown taphouse. With 36 taps pouring their own thoughtfully crafted brews alongside a rotating selection of BC’s best independent breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries, there’s truly something here for everyone.

The space is warm, game-filled, and full of good company — bring a deck of cards and settle in. Families are welcome until 10 pm, and the legendary kids’ snack flight (think taster glasses of soda, candy, and cheezies) is a hit with guests of all ages. Pair your pint with the fan-favourite beer cheese mac & cheese or order in from one of Salmon Arm’s local kitchen partners. Ricochet is more than a taphouse; it’s the kind of place where locals and visitors find themselves staying for just one more round.

Raise a Glass at Barley Station Brew Pub

For a taste of enduring Shuswap hospitality, head to Barley Station Brew Pub, a beloved Salmon Arm institution. Housed in a warm, rustic-charmed space, the Barley Station has been a gathering place for locals for years, and it’s easy to see why. They brew their own rotating selection of handcrafted ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties using local ingredients, and pair them with elevated pub fare that hits every comfort note. The pet-friendly patio is perfect for sunny Shuswap afternoons, and happy hour is always a good call. Whether you’re a hophead, a lager lover, or just hungry for a hearty meal, Barley Station delivers every time.

Sip Craft Cider at Northyards Cider Co.

Salmon Arm’s craft community extends beyond its breweries. Cider lovers are very well taken care of here.

Northyards Cider Co. is a craft cidery, orchard, and tasting room rolled into one. Their ciders are made using traditional methods from 100% BC apples and local fruit — pressed, fermented, and left to speak for themselves. The tasting room is a bright, upscale spot to slow down and truly savour what the Shuswap grows. Tours are available, and you can even book a stay on-site.

Walk the Wharf at Marine Peace Park (with Ice Cream!)

You simply cannot visit Salmon Arm without walking the wharf — and yes, it’s as impressive as people say. The park’s roots go back to 1907 when the original government wharf was built here, and the grounds have been a beloved community gathering place ever since. Designated as Salmon Arm’s Marine Peace Park during Canada’s 125th birthday celebrations in 1992, the beautifully landscaped grounds feature gardens, mature trees, a gazebo that made the journey from Expo 86 in Vancouver, and grassy picnic areas perfect for a lazy afternoon by the water.

The real showstopper, though, is the 440-foot curved wooden pier stretching out over the shimmering waters of Shuswap Lake with panoramic mountain views in every direction. It’s a genuinely iconic BC landmark. In summer, the Shuswap Arts Council brings it to life with Wednesdays on the Wharf, a free concert series running every Wednesday from June through August. Keep an eye on the water too; the bay is rich with bird life, and herons and grebes are frequent visitors. It’s the kind of place where a simple stroll turns into an extended stay.

Hike the Foreshore / Raven Trail

For a longer, more immersive nature experience, lace up and hit the Foreshore / Raven Trail: a stunning path that winds along the lakeshore and through the natural wetlands that make Salmon Arm one of BC’s premier birdwatching destinations. The main trailhead sits at the east end of Harbourfront Drive in downtown Salmon Arm. Parking is limited at the trailhead, so consider leaving your car at Marine Peace Park and walking the SABNES East Walkway and Harbourfront Drive to get there. It’s a lovely warm-up.

This trail is part of the BC Bird Trail, so please leave your pup at home. Keep your eyes peeled for great blue herons, western grebes, and all manner of migratory species. It’s the kind of walk that reminds you why people fall in love with the Shuswap.

Paddle the Lake Canoe Beach

The Shuswap is made for getting out on the water, and paddling is one of the best ways to do it. The sandy shores of Canoe Beach make for a perfect launch spot. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard – or rent one through Salmon Arm Go Karts and Mini Golf. If you don’t want to haul your rental to the water yourself, their handy delivery and pick-up service is well worth it for just an additional $25. There’s something truly special about taking in Salmon Arm from the water; gliding along the glassy surface of the bay with mountain peaks rising in every direction, the city quietly at your back and nothing but open sky and Shuswap ahead. It’s a perspective on this place that you simply can’t get from the shore.

Grab a Gelato and Stroll McGuire Lake

McGuire Lake Park is one of Salmon Arm’s most beloved spots, and the fact that it sits right in the centre of town makes it all the more special. Before you set out, swing by Pink Cherry for a scoop (or two) of gelato to enjoy on the walk. 

This beautiful little urban oasis is a genuine delight: a peaceful, wildlife-rich lake ringed by plentiful gardens, mature willows, and a fully paved, wheelchair-accessible walkway that makes for an easy and scenic loop for all abilities.

The park is full of small surprises. At its heart stands the Japanese Friendship Gate, a gift from Inashiki, Japan — Salmon Arm’s sister city — and a popular spot for photos. A seasonal illuminated fountain adds a lovely touch, particularly in the evenings. The grassy picnic areas along 6th Street NE are perfect for a slow lunch in the sun, and the serene willow trees section near the hospital is a favourite for weddings and quiet reflection alike. 

Shop the Farmers Market and Wander Downtown

Salmon Arm’s Downtown Farmers Market is a wonderful place to get a real taste of the community. Browse stalls piled with locally grown produce, artisan goods, and handcrafted creations that reflect the creativity and care of the people who call this place home. It’s a warm, welcoming scene that captures everything special about small-city BC.

From the market, wander into the broader downtown along Salmon Arm’s charming main streets. You’ll find boutiques, galleries, and one-of-a-kind shops that showcase the town’s artistic spirit and independent character. This is the kind of downtown where you actually stop in places, and not just walk past them.

Fuel Up with Local Eats

One of the best things about Salmon Arm is that the food scene genuinely reflects the community: independent, quality-driven, and full of character. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a local spot that does it well.

Start your morning right at Westgate Bakery & Café or Shuswap Pie Co. Both are the kind of beloved neighbourhood institutions that locals swear by. Westgate turns out artisan breads and decadent pastries alongside a great coffee, while Shuswap Pie Co. does homestyle pies and baked goods entirely from scratch. Either way, you’re setting a high bar for the day. If you’re after something more nourishing, The Nom has you covered with wholesome meals, smoothies, fresh-pressed juice, and healthy snacks from their downtown storefront — the kind of fuel that actually keeps up with an active Shuswap itinerary.

Come dinnertime, the options are just as varied. Nineteen05 Kitchen & Raw Bar offers a more elevated evening out, with locally inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and fresh flavours in a modern lakeside setting. For a taste of the Mediterranean right in the heart of the Shuswap, Ambrosia Grill Taverna brings authentic Greek flavours and modern vibes to Salmon Arm. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a proper getaway. If Italian is calling, AnDiamo is a must, serving up handcrafted pastas, fresh local ingredients, homemade tiramisu, and on weekends, the owner himself takes to the mic for a little live entertainment that has a habit of turning dinner into a full evening. For something bold and vibrant, Cantina Vallarta brings authentic traditional Mexican cooking to the Shuswap with ingredients and flavours that feel genuinely transportive. And if you’re after something hearty, lively, and unapologetically fun, Canooligans’ delivers creative comfort food with a local twist and the kind of atmosphere that makes the evening stretch on a little longer than planned — which is always a good sign.

Don’t overlook Cahoots either. This BBQ, bakery, and cocktail spot is a fantastic find for a Friday or Saturday brunch that drifts effortlessly into happy hour. Think smoky, satisfying food paired with a laid-back space that does mornings and evenings equally well.

Where to Stay

Salmon Arm has accommodation options to suit every travel style. Whether you’re looking for polished comfort in the heart of the action or a peaceful retreat just outside of town.

For those who want to be close to everything, Hilltop Inn is Salmon Arm’s premier resort-style luxury boutique hotel. Spacious, thoughtfully appointed rooms range from well-equipped Queen and King Executives to generous Junior Suites with soaker tubs and kitchenettes, all with views of the outdoor pool, gardens, forest, or Shuswap Lake. Nearby hiking trails offer an escape into nature, or head for the downtown shops, restaurants, and waterfront, which are all within easy reach. The pool, open seasonally from May to September, is the largest outdoor heated pool in BC, and on a warm Shuswap evening, it’s a pretty wonderful place to wind down after a full day.

If a quieter, more intimate experience is what you’re after, Inn at the Ninth is something special. Tucked alongside the ninth hole of the Salmon Arm Golf Club, just a short drive from downtown, this warmly hosted B&B offers individually decorated suites — each with a private entrance, en-suite bathroom, and views of the surrounding forest and mountains. A complimentary continental breakfast is included each morning, and the host’s genuine warmth and local knowledge have made it a consistently top-rated stay in the region. It’s the kind of place guests talk about long after they’ve checked out.

Plan Your Salmon Arm Ale-venture

Salmon Arm may sit on the quieter side of the Shuswap, but it’s anything but sleepy. From craft breweries and cideries that celebrate local ingredients and community spirit, to trails that wind along one of BC’s most beautiful lakes, to a downtown full of independent shops and remarkable food, this city rewards the curious traveller at every turn. Pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall for the Shuswap.

Find Salmon Arm on the Southern Interior Ale Trail and start planning your next ale-venture to the sunny Shuswap.

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Salmon Arm: Sips, Strolls, and Shuswap Adventures appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Tapping Into the Trails Capital of BC

One of the best things about writing about hiking and craft beer in Western Canada is the inspiration to keep exploring places I haven’t yet been. When I wrote Beer Hiking Canadian Rockies, I included small towns I was led to because of their local craft breweries. I then had the task to pair a brew with a nearby hike — a fun and refreshing way to get to know both the locals and their landscape. 

That book covered the Rockies, so regrettably, Vernon wasn’t within its scope. But this constellation of hiking, biking and experiential trails, plus Vernon’s star breweries, is now squarely on my radar—especially since Vernon, with its 500 km of trails, was officially named the Trails Capital of BC in 2023.  

I’m more than happy to shine a light on this region for others, whether they’re visiting from across the country or from just down the road. From my home base in Banff, where the streets and trails are often heaving with visitors, it’s invigorating to discover just how much Vernon offers as an outdoor playground. It’s the kind of place that warrants full attention—and I’m always keen to encourage some well-deserved geographical dispersion in tourism! 

Vernon is a great example of how trails, from the rocky and rugged to smooth wheelchair-friendly pavement, shape a community. The Trails Capital designation was granted by the Canadian Registrar of Trademarks and highlights the collective effort of local government, the Ribbons of Green Trails Society, businesses, and volunteers in developing this extensive system. As Hannah Lucich of Tourism Vernon explains,

“Trails are a great way to connect the community to our natural environment in all seasons. From cross-country ski trails to multi-use pathways connecting downtown to our trail networks, there is truly a trail for everyone here.”

A quick click on Tourism Vernon’s new interactive trail map makes it easy to choose a hike and the right level of challenge. I home in on the Okanagan Rail Trail — a route that feels tailor-made for a beer hike. It hugs the scenic shores of Kalamalka, Wood and Ellison (Duck) Lakes, winding past colourful cliffs, forests, vineyards, and orchards. Even better, the trailhead is just a couple of kilometres from BNA Brewing Co., housed in a converted warehouse space. 

Founded in 2015, BNA Brewing is owned by Kyle and Carolyn Nixon, locals who’ve steadily turned the original location in Kelowna into one of the city’s most popular gathering spots. Their second location in Vernon opened this year. It’s all craft beer brewed in-house, retro vibes and fun and games. Think ten-pin and duck-pin bowling, vintage arcade games, bocce, and even a vintage milk truck bar. 

With BNA’s recent partnership with Crannóg Ales, I’ve got my eye on their iconic Back Hand of God stout, brewed with organic ingredients and hops from Crannóg’s Left Fields organic farm—a perfect post-trail reward.  And now that BNA has released their new Extra Pale Ale on tap and in cans, I know exactly what I’ll be packing to bring a taste of Vernon home with me! 

In my experience, breweries are more than places to grab a pint—they’re an immediate entry point into the local vibe. You’re likely to find feature beers that reflect regional flavours, stories shared across tables, and people still dusty from the trail, swapping recommendations for the next best hike or ride. 

And speaking of rides….

Another search on the interactive trail map for a not-too-difficult-but-still-rewarding bike route leads me to Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park and the Lookout Trail. I’m always up for a bit of a climb if it ends with a sweeping panoramic views of Kalamalka Lake and Cosens Bay. 

That kind of workout only makes the post-ride pint taste better, especially at Vernon’s other standout craft brewery, Silverstar Brewing Company. Formerly known as Marten Brewing, it officially rebranded last summer under new ownership led by Pardeep “PJ” Jaswat. Silverstar has rolled out cans of its seasonal Tutti Frutti IPA, Very Berry Touch Sour, and the new Sling it Light Lager, a sleek 3.7% collaboration with golf influencer Mac Boucher that’s already landing at golf courses across Southern BC. 

Vernon makes beer hiking easy. In fact, it’s like the city curated the experience just for me. Its network of trails includes several urban Multi-Use Pathways allowing visitors to explore Vernon by bike or on foot with ease. The 3km Polson Greenway along 30^th Street connects to the Polson Park Path, creating a scenic route to travel between Silverstar Brewing and BNA Brewing.

Fun fact: Vernon was an early adopter of BC’s craft beer scene back in the 1980s. Okanagan Spring Brewery, founded here in 1985, was one of the first large-scale operations in the province and, while smaller microbreweries paved the way, it helped bring locally brewed beer to a wider market.  

Another way to experience urban Vernon by ‘trail’ is on the Pour and Explore Loop — created by Tourism Vernon in partnership with local beverage producers. This immersive route connects six stops—the two breweries, Planet Bee’s Honeymoon Mead, Cambium Cider Co, The Perch Winery and Okanagan Spirits Distillery—each offering its own brand of local flavour. 

In Vernon, trails and taps go hand in hand. After time on the trail— whether you’re chasing sweeping viewpoints, cruising rail beds, or coasting through open meadows—a locally made beer offers a satisfying way to reflect, recharge and soak up the spirit of the place. 

The region’s reputation as a trail town is well-earned. I’ve got my routes mapped and my pints picked out. I can’t wait to experience it all for myself! 

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post Trail Mix: Hikes, Bikes, and Brewery Flights In Vernon appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Hit the lakes and the links, or find your new favourite trail to hike or bike. Sip your way through four local breweries and discover mouthwatering restaurants.  The trails are quiet, the greens are prime, and the lakes are calm. Recently, Mary Sheridan (@MaryInVanCity) hit the road to spend a weekend exploring, sipping and savouring her way around the vast landscapes, and unique blend of urban and outdoor adventures of Kamloops. Here are her top five reasons that Kamloops should be your next fall road trip destination.

Learn about the history of the land and its people

Kamloops is located on the ancestral lands of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. The Tk’emlúpsemc, or “the people of the confluence”  have lived there since time immemorial. Visit Tk’emlupsemcúl̓ecw with respect and take part in authentic Indigenous experiences. From tours to cuisine, there are many ways to honour and embrace their culture—and broaden your understanding of their values, traditions, and lived experiences.

If you time your trip just right, you can immerse yourself in a captivating lineup of films from Indigenous creators from Canada and abroad at the annual Stseptékwles re Sk’elép (Coyote Stories) Indigenous Film Festival, held in late September.

Crisp Trails & Fall Colors

From laid-back paths to rugged terrain, there’s an option for every level of hiker to explore. Mary and her travel partner chose the McArthur Island Loop, a visit to BC’s largest municipal park, Kenna Cartwright Park, and Peterson Creek Nature Park⁠. The McArthur Island loop is a 2-3km paved walking loop around the bustling sports-oriented Island where you’re likely to see local wildlife including marmots, deer, and plenty of ducks, geese and swans. If you want to get more off the beaten track, Kenna Cartwright Park boasts over 40km of multi-use trails for hikers and mountain bikers of all ages and abilities, featuring breathtaking views of the Thompson Valley. Peterson Creek Nature Park combines the best of both worlds. It is situated in the heart of the city along a natural creek corridor, featuring over 10 km of varied trails for every skill level.

Find your perfect hike. 

Local Breweries

Kamloops is home to four breweries, each with their own personality and style.

• Sample innovative, small-batch brews straight from the tanks at Bright Eye Brewing. Pair them with something from the large, curated menu of fresh bites.
• In addition to its award-winning beer, Iron Road Brewing is known for its authentic Mexican food.
• The Noble Pig Brewhouse, simply put, features incredible house-made craft brews paired with meticulously created food using only the best ingredients.
• Downtown, you’ll find Red Collar Brewing, a gathering place for beer lovers and brewers of the Room to Roam collab beer.

This fall, Red Collar Brewing has partnered with Tourism Kamloops to create the Room to Roam IPA. Inspired by the endless trails of Kamloops this light, crisp and refreshing Belgian White IPA is the perfect companion to sit back and enjoy the beauty around you.⁣ Be on the lookout for 4-packs at the brewery and at Everything Wine BC locations around the province.

Beyond the Brews

Kamloops is home to a thriving culinary scene. While each of the four local breweries offers its own options for great eats, you’ll find so much more to explore. From the authentic Indigenous cuisine at Kekuli Café, to delectable and indulgent breakfasts at The Chook Eatery, waking up on holidays is easy for once!

For non beer drinkers, or those who simply like some variety, you can, of course, find plenty of other tasting opportunities at an abundance of local cideries and wineries like Privato Vineyard and Winery or Woodward Cider.

Explore the Arts and Culture Scene

Kamloops is more than outdoor adventures – there is also a thriving arts scene and a unique culture that has to be experienced to be understood. There are three art galleries each with their own unique exhibits featuring contemporary and traditional works from local and national artists. For a dazzling experience, check out the Illuminate Kamloops project: a city-wide showcase of art and light bringing to life the urban landscape.

Support local makers, artisans and vendors at the Kamloops Farmers’ Markets or a local shop like Haus of Misfit that hosts night markets with dozens of artists, a retail space showcasing independent brands, and ‘haus-made’ goods.

Level up your trip with a Sip + Stay package

Pair your stay with a craft beer experience by booking a Sip + Stay package. From now until December 15, the Thompson Hotel is offering a great deal on your stay, plus some local brews and treats to enjoy. Located less than 10 minutes’ walk from a beach, this restored historic hotel is located in the Kamloops city centre making it the perfect home-away-from-home for your ale-venture.

The post MaryInVanCity’s Top Five Reasons to Explore Kamloops This Fall appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

‘Ale Trails’ is a doc-style mini-series looking at the intersection between mountain biking and local craft breweries, and how both work to support and enhance their community.

Join us, as we explore the BC’s Southern Interior, showcasing Vernon and Shuswap, and meeting the proud, passionate locals who call these tight-knit communities home.

The Southern Interior region of BC holds an ecological cross-section of the province with alpine meadows, arid Douglas fir grasslands, damp cedar and hemlock forests of the Columbia Mountains and the warm expanse of Shuswap Lake. Not only a feast for the eyes, the diverse terrain creates endless possibilities for mountain bike trails with a landscape dotted with historic farm breweries and apple orchard cideries conveniently located for that post ride bevie.

Along with an abundance of flow, Vernon has more technical trails on offer with expansive trail networks at Predator Ridge, Ellison Provincial Park, Kalamalka Lake and the King Eddie Plateau which boast the 54km Killer King Route – linking the two aforementioned networks on nearly continuous singletrack. Marten Brewing Company in downtown Vernon even serves up a Killer King Blonde Ale which channels money directly back to the trails. Oh, and let’s not forget the Bike Park at Silver Star and Cambium Cider located conveniently at the base of the mountain.

A short drive north, Salmon Arm is the main hub for mountain biking where there are two choices of riding: low angle and fast, and steep and fast, with easily accessible stacked loop trail systems at South Canoe or long, epic traverses deep into the mountains.  The manicured trails are directly supported by the Barley Station Brew Pub‘s Shuswap Trail Ale IPA, along with two cideries – Shuswap Cider Company and Northyards Cider Co to wet your whistle. For growler take-a-ways, Crannóg Ales have been serving up high quality beer for 22 years and were Canada’s first organic brewery and are one of only a handful of organic farm-based breweries worldwide.

‘Ale Trails’ is a collaboration between Mountain Biking BC, Tourism Vernon, Shuswap Tourism, and the BC Ale Trail, and produced by adventure filmmakers, Ben Haggar and Mike Gamble / Cold Salt Collective.

ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY

Members of the BC Ale Trail are committed to ensuring their beers are promoted and enjoyed responsibly, by those adults who choose to consume them, for the continued prosperity of the craft beer industry in British Columbia.

No one should drink alcohol, even in moderation, before operating a motor vehicle or engaging in other activities that involve attention and skill or physical risk.

The post Mountain Biking and Craft Beer: Vernon and Shuswap, BC appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Vernon is home to noteworthy outdoor adventure opportunities, and winter is no exception. Combined with a relaxed and authentic community vibe, and of course a great craft brewery, it’s the ideal destination for anyone looking to find a bit of magic, fun and charm. “Vernon Winter Carnival is a community-wide celebration of all these things. It is a quintessential Canadian experience that’s unique to Vernon, BC,” explains Torrie Silverthorn, Manager of Tourism for the City of Vernon.

Home to Okanagan Spring Brewery which opened in 1985, Vernon was an early hub for microbrewing in BC. Following the huge growth and subsequent sale of OK Spring to Sleeman Breweries and later to Sapporo, there was an obvious vacancy in the craft beer scene — one that Stefan and Pearl Marten were happy to fill.

“We felt that Vernon really wanted [a craft brewery],” says Stefan, “And when we opened Marten Brewing Co, we were so well supported by the community.”

Part of what drew the Martens to Vernon was the locals’ willingness to embrace the winter season, and that is best expressed by Vernon Winter Carnival.

“Everybody is so adventurous here; everybody is so willing to get out and experience the winter for what it is. Vernon keeps it fun too, it kind of just keeps the spirit alive during the wintertime.” – Pearl Marten 

“Vernon has such a history with the winter carnival — it’s been around for so long that it’s really cool to be a part of that, and continue that tradition on “ – Stefan Marten

The Carnival kicks off February 3rd this year, running until February 12th. One of the first events of the Carnival is Sip & Savour — a sold-out evening featuring 25 craft (and domestic) breweries, cideries and wineries, alongside a mouth-water food bar. This is the Okanagan’s longest-running beverage showcase and sells out quickly every year for good reason. Participating craft breweries this year include Crannóg Ales, Fernie Brewing Co., Highway 97 Brewery, Marten Brewing Co, Smugglers Trail Caskworks and Vice & Virtue Brewing.

The first Winter Carnival, as it is currently known, kicked off in 1961. Many of the iconic events are long-running traditions making up the Carnival’s history and continuing its legacy today. For example: in 2019 the Vernon Pigeon and Poultry Club celebrated their 50th annual Feather Fanciers Show. The same year, the Chili Cook-off and Blues Festival both celebrated their 10th anniversaries.

Notably, the ‘Over the Hill Downhill’ ski race is celebrating its 40^th Anniversary this year. Held at Silver Star Mountain Resort the race welcomes skiers from 10 years and up, and of all levels. It takes place on the namesake ‘Over the Hill’ blue and green run. Grab your long skis, dig out that vintage attire, and join your team for a day of downhill fun.

Another longstanding event that has become a crowd favourite is the Hot Air Balloon Glow, and it’s easy to see why.

“The Hot Air Balloon Glow is a personal favourite of mine,” says Torrie Silverthorp. “It’s fascinating to watch these giant balloons light up the night sky and hover above crowds of onlookers in their parkas and mittens.  My kids, on the other hand, live for the parade. Fire trucks, marching bands and handmade floats all cavalcade through Vernon’s downtown core — in the middle of a Canadian winter — past thousands and thousands of spectators. It’s truly something to see.”

Along with these events, the 10-day festival hosts a plethora of family-friendly, adult-only, inclusive, adventurous, and varied events. The many Carnival-long contests encourage locals and visitors to get involved and show their community spirit. From decorating their businesses to scavenger hunts, and poster contests for kids, it’s a time for the community to come together and celebrate. Those who go above and beyond for their community and the Carnival celebrations may even be awarded the Order of Jopo — the highest honour that the Carnival Society can bestow.

No matter how you choose to explore the Carnival, from food-focused events to outdoor adventures, to simply enjoying the glittering lights and snow sculptures, there are daily activities sure to appeal to everyone. Finished off with a flight of Marten Brewing’s latest releases, it just might be the perfect way to spend a winter day.

The post Beat the Winter Blues at the Vernon Winter Carnival appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.