Vernon Insider's Guide
Family Fun Holiday Adventures In Vernon BC
December 18, 2014
Family Fun Time The holiday season to us is a time to celebrate and spend time with family and friends. Don’t get lost in the hustle and bustle this year – take time out of a hectic holiday schedule to relax and make some long lasting memories. There are a variety of special holiday activities scheduled this season, along with many year round favourites.
Christmas Traditions -There are many unique events and activities in Vernon that have become holiday traditions for many locals and visitors – maybe you’ll start a new tradition this year when you try something new.
If you're looking for a holiday event this year that effortlessly captures the holiday spirit - then look no further than the Caravan Farm Theatre. Dress warmly, huddle up with a warm beverage, and watch a performance production like no other. You'll be pulled from scene to scene in a horse drawn sleigh through the wintry landscape in this outdoor caravan theatre. Magical, entertaining and an experience to create treasured memories with friends and family - this is a holiday tradition for many!
Tour local Christmas light displays on Vernon’s annual Christmas Light Drive in December. Take a self guided tour and marvel at the holiday displays and LED illuminations from some of Vernon’s most spirited. Visit 105.7 Sun FM's Vernon at this link for a map of some of Vernon's most spectacular light shows - http://www.thesunonline.ca/ChristmasLights/map.aspx
Get Active Sometimes it’s hard to fit recreation into a busy holiday schedule. And sometimes it’s hard to head outdoors when it’s snowy and cold – but there’s something special about taking part in recreational activities as a group. Bring the kids to the Vernon Recreation Centre to splish splash in the pool or warm up in the hot tub, Santa Swim takes place December 20th.
Head out on a snowy, starlit evening for a night ski or snowshoe on an illuminated trail. The quiet and calm of the evening, with the lights keeping darkness at bay, make for the perfect setting for conversation as you make your way through the trees. Both Sovereign Lake and Silver Star light up select trails or runs during the season and this can be an affordable option for those visiting or testing out a new winter activity. Santa’s making an appearance up at Silver Star as well. Ski or Snowboard with old friends. On Christmas Day, after a morning of stockings and gifts head out for some fresh powder on the hill. Lace up your skates and take part in a game of shinny on the ice, practice your arabesques or just try to stay upright as you skate along. With three rinks open during the winter for public skating, there’s plenty of opportunity to take to the ice. Indoor skates at Kal Tire Place and outdoor skates at the Centennial Outdoor Rink or Brewers Pond at Silver Star. Skate with Santa for free at Kal Tire Place on December 21nd before he begins his round-the-world trip on Christmas Eve!
Looking for a romantic evening during the holidays with your special someone? How does a horse-drawn sleigh ride under the stars to the rustic Wild Horseman’s Cabin for a buffet dinner sound? Take a sleigh ride from the Silver Star Village out to the cabin and back. This package is offered through Silver Star Mountain Resort. The evening combines the magic of snow covered trees and a secluded cabin rendezvous – perfect for couples, families, groups and friends. For more things to do and upcoming events - be sure to visit http://www.tourismvernon.com! Here you can find our events calendar, attractions, dining, specials and more!
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Fall Foraging & Fun Mushroom Adventures
October 17, 2014
Do fungi make you feel fuzzy inside?
Foraging for mushrooms is growing in popularity. The Okanagan offers an array of mushrooms right at your finger tips! Wild mushrooms love the fall environment and have the potential to bloom like crazy. Mushrooms come in all sizes, shapes, aromas, colors and textures.
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Looking for Live Music in Vernon BC?
March 19, 2014
Looking to Groove while you’re in Vernon BC? We have lots of local bands that play at the local venues as well as an array of visiting performers from across BC and Canada.
The Green, located in the Village Green Hotel, hosts live music almost every Friday and Saturday nights. Enjoy a beverage or try some of their new pub fare at this locals hot spot – you can even star in your own show during Superstar Karaoke on Sunday nights. The Green often has bands such as Easy Fix, Mace, The Marksmen, Bender, The Youngun’s, and Junk Yard Dogs to name a few. You’re able to dance all night long at The Green. Food. Drink. Entertainment.
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Vernon Summer Festival Guide
June 20, 2013
June 21st marks the first official day of summer, and along with sunshine, warm weather and a myriad of seasonal activities, also comes summer festivals. Music festivals that bring us together to sing and dance along to our favourite or newly discovered bands and performers; art and culture festivals that allow us to escape into a world of creativity, inspiration and discovery; and events surrounding sports and activities that are filled with excitement and competition. If you’re planning a summer vacation (or stay-cation) around Vernon this season, be sure you mark your calendars with all of the exciting events and festivals that are taking place.
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Scenic Sips
May 13, 2013
This week we are in the middle of the Spring Okanagan Wine Festival, with various events taking place throughout the Okanagan Valley, which is well known as a premiere wine growing region. While most wineries are concentrated in the south end of the Valley – the North Okanagan can also boast to having some marvellous vineyards and wineries. Last weekend I took part in Taste Lake Country, visiting six wineries (Ancient Hill, Ex Nihilo, Arrowleaf, Gray Monk, Intrigue and 50th Parallel) and sampling cultural food plates from a mix of local restaurants.
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Take A Hike!
April 26, 2013
Head off the beaten path, it’s easy to do around Vernon. Disconnect from your routine and reconnect with nature, stepping out on trails that start within our city limits, or further afield, in the Monashee Range Hike through incredible vistas of jagged and rolling mountain peaks, ancient grasslands, and vibrant wildflower meadows; alongside cascading waterfalls and at the door of abandoned gold and silver mines. The tranquility of the deep forest can restore your equilibrium like no place else. No matter where you roam, you’ll be stepping into a region that simply invites exploration.” – 2013 Vernon Visitor Guide
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Make It A Fresh Day at the Vernon Farmers Market
April 11, 2013
After parking in the spacious lot, strolling through the Market I quickly come to realize the uniqueness and diversity of our region plus a few Canadian specialties thrown in. I am eagerly anticipating the first, fresh, crisp asparagus of the season along with an array of new baby veggies. And very soon the aroma of sweet strawberries and dark red cherries will fill the air. You’ll find jars of goodness from Olga’s Preserves and zesty smoked sausage and jerky from Smokey Ray’s.
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Spring is Asparagus Season!
April 8, 2013
April is the start of one our favourite times of year here at the Vernon Visitor Centre – the time for farm fresh asparagus! There are few things tastier than fresh, hand-picked spring asparagus grilled, steamed, or added to any culinary creation – and not to mention the many health benefits of Asparagus.
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Exploring Vernon - One Cache at a Time
March 27, 2013
This past weekend I went on my first Geocahing adventure around Vernon. Completely new to this outdoor hobby, it's turning out to be a great way to get outside and explore some of the areas around Vernon. My first geocache find was on the Grey Canal Trail in the Silver Star Foothills. Walking the trail loop starting at Rugg Road, taking in the great views of the city and Swan Lake this trail offers, and following the GPS coordinates to the cache location - I truly felt like a treasure hunter.
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Shoparama 2013
March 14, 2013
Spring has arrived here in Vernon, B.C which means warmer weather, signs of budding flowers and returning wildlife and a chance to recharge for the season. Also, spring cleaning is in order for most of us. Some of us dread the “spring clean”, yet others bubble with excitement just at the thought. Whether you are one or the other, it’s bound to happen, but take a break and refresh at the upcoming Shoparama, the first weekend in April.
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Signs of Spring in Vernon BC
February 22, 2013
After spending some time outside this past week we are confident spring has arrived here in Vernon. Some really great indicators of spring would be the little plants popping their heads out at City Hall or the appearance of baby cows in the fields. But there is no greater sign of spring then the universal indicator, Canadian geese squealing above our heads!!!
As spring arrives we are all working hard to make sure the thousands of visitors that are soon to arrive have memorable experiences preferably in a good way. That’s why we are here after all! The businesses in and around the City are raking, stocking inventory, painting and ramping up for everyone’s arrival. The excitement in spring here is contagious. The street sweepers are out in full force the birds have begun to chirp once again and the long winter is almost a distant memory. That being said we all invite you to “Make Vernon Yours” this summer!
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Vernon Winter Carnival Prehistoric Carnival 2013!
January 14, 2013
We know you can’t believe it but, yes, January is upon us! Fall has officially passed and winter has set in! And yes, here in Vernon we’ve had quite a heavy snowfall. So the ski slopes are open, and everybody is happily enjoying the blessing winter brings! But snow isn’t the only thing that happens during the winter here in Vernon, the annual Vernon Winter Carnival is an event that everybody looks forward to!
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New Years Resolution
January 7, 2013
Well it’s January and here in Vernon we are all trying to stick to our new year’s resolutions! More physical activity seems to be a common goal for most and Vernon has many choices when it comes to venues for getting active.
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Planning a Fun Filled Holiday in Vernon BC!
December 6, 2012
Whether you are in Vernon for Christmas Holidays or live here, the Holidays can be a great family adventure.
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Chasing the Winter sun in Vernon BC
November 12, 2012
As we sit high above Vernon BC at the Vernon Visitor Centre, we have clear view of the surrounding landscape. Today the snow is falling and the sun seems a thing of the past.
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Downtown Vernon, B.C
October 3, 2012
Fall might have officially started on September 22nd, but here in Vernon, B.C the weather is great as ever! With the past week hitting the mid twenties almost every day, you can enjoy this weather by a day in our downtown! A great place for the whole family to spend the day, and to get to know Vernon a little better! There are lots of activities to do like a visit to the Vernon Art Gallery or going to a movie in the Vernon Towne Cinema and many more!
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Discovering Hiking and Biking in Vernon, B.C!
September 19, 2012
As temperatures already starting to cool, we all start wondering how to keep fit and healthy during the Autumn months, and into Winter. Well, don’t hop onto those treadmills just yet, because we have some fantastic trails and cycling routes to tell you about! Hiking and Biking is very popular here in Vernon, B.C, especially during the spring, summer and fall months! There are so many different trails to chose from, from easy, difficult to moderate difficulty, it can sometimes be difficult to pin point exactly which is the best for you! So, here are some of the most well known trails!
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Fun for all, Fall activities In Vernon BC
September 10, 2012
As the weather is slowly starting to cool down, here in Vernon B.C, it’s almost time to start planning some fun fall activities that the whole family will enjoy, and we’re here to help! As always, some outdoor fun is a great place to start! A nice hike through Kal Park or along the Grey Canal trail, or a bike ride on the BX Bike Loop! You can easily make this an all day activity by bringing along a picnic and a soccer ball! If you have your GPS with you, geocaching is also a great option, if you’re not sure what geocaching is or how to get started, this might help http://tourismvernon.blogspot.ca/2012/08/fall-is-great-time-for-geocaching.html !
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Bird Watching Vernon BC
August 27, 2012
Even though summer seems to be winding down, there are still plenty of fun things left to in Vernon, BC and surrounding areas! If your looking for something simple and fun for the whole family to do before the summer ends, bird watching might just be it! Because fall is coming lots of bird are getting ready to migrate, yet others, like the Blue Heron and Golden Eagle are just starting to prepare for the cold and snowy winter to come. So grab your binoculars and your bird watching manuals and let’s get started!
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Farm Touring - Vernon BC
July 22, 2012
Unlike the surrounding wine areas the North end of the Okanagan Valley has extensive orchards and farmlands. The area has a rich history of large scale fruit production and farm activities generating product for all of Canada.
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“Coming in Hot” has taken on a whole new meaning here in Vernon BC!
July 11, 2012
We like most of the province are having extremely Hot! Hot! Hot weather! This seems to be driving the Tourism staff to the nearby lakes on days off for relief. We have many amazing spots around Vernon that are really great down time escapes.
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At last the sun has arrived in Vernon BC!
July 5, 2012
And offer offers endless options when looking for fun family friendly things to do!
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June is Sports Time!
June 25, 2012
Kalamalka Classic over - Funtastic to start. It's been a busy time in Vernon this June and the fun continues this weekend with the annual Funtastic Sport and Music Festival.
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You can feel summer is coming soon!
May 23, 2012
The summer season is starting in Vernon. We've had some rain that has greened up the hillsides beautifully and with the combination of heat; we are seeing things growing like crazy. All the attractions are opening and extending their hours, so you know summer is not far away.
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Ramping Up!
April 23, 2012
It’s been a busy few weeks here in Vernon with Tourist season hot on our heels. Everyone is working really hard to make sure Vernon has something for everyone.
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Indicators of Spring in Vernon BC
March 28, 2012
Vernon has very clear indicators that spring is officially here the first one being all the flowers are lazily popping their heads out of the soil waiting for the rays of warm sunshine to touch them. The second greatest indicator that is very unique to the area is the arrival of the Herons. Vernon has a large Heron Rookery near the local Walmart
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Spring Is In The Air Most Days In Vernon!
March 16, 2012
Spring is upon us most days here with snow still at higher elevations. The days are amazing with all the benefits of winter on the mountains and nice spring like weather in the bottom of the valley to enjoy.
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The Next Chapter!
March 1, 2012
Tourism Vernon is taking a breath after a very busy February and it will be short lived!
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“Time to Shine”
February 24, 2012
So yesterday here in Vernon we celebrated the opening of the Greater Vernon 2012 BC Winter Games! We had many dignitaries in attendance including the Premier Christy Clark and Ida Chong Ministry of Community Sport, and Cultural Development! But I think the true dignitaries were the hundreds of athletes that arrived by the busload!
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Vernon Welcomes Athletes & Families for the 2012 Winter Games!
February 21, 2012
As the Vernon 2012 BC games get closer we are really feeling the excitement build! This morning we searched news articles online throughout the province and there are far too many to share. Many of the Tourism Vernon staff & volunteers are heavily involved in several of the events and proud to be able to assist! This is a very exciting time for us and everyone is really busy making sure we are able to be the best host City possible for such a special occasion.
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Our Time to Shine!
February 14, 2012
Well with the Vernon Winter Carnival behind us we are getting excited as the BC 2012 Winter Games are being hosted right here in Vernon BC!
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My Winter Carnival !
February 9, 2012
It is with great joy that I write today about one of the most amazing weeks I have had the pleasure of enjoying in Vernon BC.
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British Columbia’s Best Winter Carnival!
February 3, 2012
What a great week to be in Vernon BC! Proclamation of the 52nd Queen Silver Star was last night what a amazing event. Today the hot air balloons had a late start but got into the air above Vernon around 1:00 pm what a great show that was.
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Have you ever “Sported With Carnival?”
January 27, 2012
The first week of the Vernon Winter Carnival is coming up and brings us a variety of events. There are some pre-carnival events coming up in the next week like the Proclamation of Queen Silver Star and the 39th Annual Best decorated Premises contest.
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Anticipating February in Vernon!
January 13, 2012
You won’t want to miss it!
Vernon BC is beginning to bustle with Vernon Winter Carnival activities that begin February3rd. It seems this time of year is literally the calm before the storm. February begins with the giants in the air as hot air balloons float lazily above the City signifying Winter Carnival here has officially begun! Nearly every day and evening for two weeks there is an exciting event and nearly all Vernon businesses and organizations participate. I am sure that almost everyone that lives here is touched in some way by the excitement.
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Only In Vernon!
January 6, 2012
With Christmas behind us we are all looking for activities to work off the Christmas turkey and Vernon is the best place to do that.
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Christmas is Coming!
December 8, 2011
This time of year can be a bit dismal as it seems that the suns sets at 3:30 in the afternoon! Thankfully there are lots of bright lights that make the City sparkle during the build up to the Christmas holidays. This weekend (December 10 & 11) from 2pm to 6pm, the Historic O'Keefe Ranch is presenting a wonderful Victorian Christmas experience. Lots of festive activities and music; the mansion and ranch will be decorated beautifully and there will be hot apple cider and perhaps chestnuts roasting! I've heard that there could even be a visit from a very special person in a red suit as well.
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Put on those Skinny Skis!
November 10, 2011
The nordic trails at Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre open today! And Silver Star Resort Nordic trails should open tomorrow. Great early season conditions at both places. If you want to be inspired to get or keep fit...check out either place.
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Burn off those turkey calories with a great hike
October 11, 2011
There is something extra special about revisiting favourite trails and pathways around Vernon at this time of year. With cooler temperatures, it just seems to be so much easier to explore a little further than you do during the heat of summer.
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Occupational Hazards
September 16, 2011
One of the delights of this job is taking travel writers out to experience Vernon from an 'insider's' perspective. Often this means food, which is hazardous to my waistline. But I continue to take one for the team in the interests of promoting Vernon's culinary delights.
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Life is Good - Golf is Good
September 2, 2011
I'm not the best golfer, in fact, I rarely golf, but when there is an annual tournament organized for tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan; I'll be there... even if it's just to create comic relief for the serious competitors.
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Last night for Free Civic Sounds Concerts is Thursday Sep 1 at 7pm
August 31, 2011
Nothing goes together as perfectly as music and a soft summer night in the Okanagan and there will be music in the air Thursday night in Vernon.
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Events
Vernon, British Columbia, Canada
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here for a day, a weekend, or the best time of your life, you’ll be amazed at what Vernon has to offer. If you’ve never ventured off Highway 97 when travelling through the North Okanagan, we invite you to make a turn in the right direction and visit our family-friendly community.
Vernon offers more than 100 lakes within a one-hour drive, world-class golf, mountain and wellness resorts, great beaches and trails, outstanding mountain biking, spectacular farmers’ markets three days a week, and family-friendly attractions and festivals.
Tourism Vernon is the official tourism organization for the community and operates the Vernon Visitor Centres. We invite you to visit us regularly to catch up on all that is new in Vernon or check out our Facebook page for information and photos of current activities in and around Vernon.
Check in, check it out and make Vernon yours!
