Two-story house with large windows and a garden sculpture in sunlight.

What's On In August

The hottest month of Vernon is here! Check out our monthly roundup to find ways to have fun in the sun. This August you can enjoy live music in the evenings, discover the rich history of the area, check out our indoor attractions, or dive into our refreshing lakes.

Outdoor Music Photo

Acoustics of August

The warmth brought by the summer sun creates the perfect stage for performances outdoors. Live music is always in season, but this August brings an abundance of artists at a variety of venues across town for visitors to enjoy. Check out some of the highlight shows below, or see our live music page for more information.

Downtown Sounds

Pull up a chair or throw down a blanket in Civic Park (in front of the Greater Vernon Museum) for Downtown Sounds, a free live music event happening every Thursday night this month. Concerts run 6:00pm to 7:30pm.

August Lineup:

6th - Shawn Lightfoot Band

13th - Fresh Mix

20th - Iconix

27th - A Legend is Playing - Darby Mills' Press Play

For updates on each concert, visit the Downtown Vernon Association’s website.

Cambium Cider Concert Series

Taking place in the orchard with fairy lights overhead, you can enjoy live music while dining on exquisite farm-to-table dishes.  

August 12th - the Belle Miners

August 19th - the Jazz Implication

August 27th - Majesty

Tickets go fast, so get yours now at Cambium Cider's website.

Live Music Fridays at Ex Nihilo Vineyards

Come for the flavours, linger for the rhythm! Enjoy the tunes of local artists every Friday evening in August, while dining at Ex Nihilo's, Chaos Bistro.

August 7th - Iryna & Gabriel

August 14th - Jeff Piatelli

August 21st - Sarah Eske

August 28th - Brent Tyler

For more information, visit Ex Nihilo Vineyard's website.

Travel into the Past

Mackie Lake House
Mackie Lake House

Mackie Lake House

Step back in time as you step through the doors of the Mackie Lake House. This beautifully preserved historic home offers many ways for visitors to experience the enchanting house and grounds. Enjoy an afternoon tea on the veranda, or book a tour and learn about the fascinating history of the home. Unwind on the stunning grounds at their evening yoga or drop-in art classes. 

Learn More

Vernon Museum & Archives 

Learn about the early days of Vernon through permanent and temporary exhibits. For August, the museum has an insightful and relevant exhibit titled "Battling the Blaze", which teaches visitors about the history and evolution of firefighting. This is the perfect place to learn about the Indigenous people of the land, the history of Vernon, and the native plants and animals of the area. 

Plan your visit

Okeefe Ranch Photo
Historic O'Keefe Ranch

Caetani Centre

Discover the shocking history behind this heritage house turned cultural centre. Built by descendants of Italian royalty, this house was last home to Sveva Caetani, an artist who donated her house to the Vernon Community. It now displays her artwork and family's heirlooms. Book a tour to learn the mysterious and heartbreaking history of the house and its inhabitants. 

Explore Caetani

Historic O'Keefe Ranch 

Explore what it was like for the very first settlers in the Vernon area as you wander the grounds of O'Keefe Ranch. Learn needlework at the Quilt Barn, watch a master smith at work in the Blacksmith Shop, and visit the Milk Barn or Cowboy Bunkhouse and chat with the milkmaid and cowboy within.  

 View all attractions

Featured August Events

Escape the Heat

Control room with phone, dials, and switches on a panel.
Beyond Belief Escape Rooms

Beyond Belief Escape Rooms

A great way to get out with friends or family and test your problem-solving skills; Beyond Belief Escape Rooms is a family-owned business that offers six unique sets for your group to work through under a 60-minute time limit. Clever puzzle designs and cinematic rooms will guarantee a fun and memorable experience for everyone. 

Book a room 

Lincoln Lanes

Vernon’s very own 5-pin bowling alley provides guests with the opportunity to stay active and air conditioned. Their facilities have accommodations for bowlers of all ages and abilities, so everyone can get involved. Between frames, Lincoln Lanes also serves snacks and refreshments for visitors to enjoy. 

Reserve your lane 

Young boy using a laptop in a robotics exhibit.
Okanagan Science Centre

Another World Virtual Reality Arena

Immerse yourself in the world of virtual reality at Another World VR. With 360-degree movement, crisp visuals, and comfortable and adjustable gear, the environment is set up to make sure everyone feels great and has fun. They have over 20 games to choose from, providing options fit for all ages.  

Discover new realities

Okanagan Science Centre

The Science Centre always promises an engaging and informative way to spend the day, and this August is the last chance to see their new exhibit, Pterosauria: Evolution of Flight. Perfect for families, science lovers, and paleontology fans, this travelling exhibit offers a thrilling summer adventure through science, flight, and prehistoric discovery. 

Explore the world of science 

Know Before You Go

As the temperatures increase in our sunny valley, it's important to be conscious of wildfire safety and prevention.

Learn more about wildfire preparedness at FireSmart BC and check current campfire bans and restrictions in the region here.

Beach photo

Sunny Skies and Sandy Shores

Kalamalka and Okanagan Lake host many beaches, ready to be explored. Take it upon yourself to find your new favourite beach where you can relax under the sun and in the water. For a starting point, check out the hidden gem Sovereign Park, explore the many water access points in Kal Park, or visit the sandy beach at Ellison Provincial Park.  

Vernon's Beaches & Lakes 

Tips Before Your Trip

Make sure to book your accommodation in advance. Check out our latest hotel deals to save on a place to rest while you explore Vernon.

View offers

There are a variety of places to stay ranging from budget-friendly motels to quaint bed & breakfasts.

Book your Stay

 

If you are arriving here via Kelowna International Airport, book your shuttle to Vernon in advance. U-Ride and taxis are also available outside of the arrivals area.

Getting Here

To plan your day and stay up-to-date on current weather conditions in Vernon, visit our area webcams page before you head out.

VIEW VERNON AREA WEBCAMS