EVENTS & FESTIVALS

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the ultimate music festival experience or delve into arts and heritage, there is an event available for everyone. Relish in the diversity of the Kootenay Arts communities by exploring music festivals, art festivals, food festivals, car shows, carnivals, heritage days and film festivals alike. No matter what you are looking for, there is bound to be an experience worth road tripping for.

Fernie: Heritage

Laying dormant in the mountains of Fernie is the mythical Griz. Each year in a festival of heritage and tradition, you can join the winter festivities to honour the legendary story of the Griz. Festivities include lumberjacking, skiing, music, a parade and the extreme Griz competition. Make sure you make an appearance at Fernie’s Griz Days.

Kimberley: Arts & Culture

Join in on the fun at the Kimberly Kaleidoscope Festival to experience an abundance of Kootenay arts and culture. This festival celebrates visual, performing and literary arts. The Kimberly Kaleidoscope Festival is a week-long event that encourages participation. Why not take a road trip to enjoy exhibitions, demonstrations, workshops and performances in a showcase of local talent. 

Creston: Film Festival

With international submissions encouraged, the 7th Siding Festival of Films offers an array of productions that span across all genres. The festival has a quirky emphasis on films that  depict or are situated in a remote setting. Festival goers can expect to be swooned by stories of romance, captivated by dramas and thrilled by a classic horror film. 

Rossland: Winter Carnival

This historic event, Rossland Winter Carnival, has been held annually in Rossland since 1898, making it the longest running carnival in the West Kootenays. As a winter lover’s dream, you can lace up your skates and glide around the rink or zip up your jacket and venture down the snow slide. You are never too old to compete in the snow sculpture competition.  Make sure you wander around town and you will see all the creative designs, forts, and professional ice sculptures.

Castlegar: Markets & Sports

What better way to celebrate the start of summer than by visiting Castlegar Sunfest. This family friendly event features everything from markets, live performances, art exhibits, and of course the annual sports tournaments. Gather a team and join the competition, or if you’re a sports fan remember to grab a chair and join in the cheering crowd. 

Nelson & Kootenay Lake: Music Festivals

There is no shortage of events happening in the Nelson & Kootenay Lake region. The area is host to many local artists along with popular annual music festivals. Shambhala Music Festival is set along the scenic Salmo river and is home to over 10,000 electronic music lovers during festival week. If Jazz music is more your rhythm, head over to the North end of Kootenay Lake for Kaslo Jazz Etc Summer Music Festival. No matter the playlist, summer in the Nelson & Kootenay Lake area is populated with live music for everyone, just check the local events calendar and the options will be endless.

Arrow Slocan: Family Fun & Dancing

If you’re looking to take a square dancing lesson or play carnival games, then look no further than New Denver May Days. This festival of endless fun and entertainment for the whole family doesn’t stop there, line the streets to watch the annual parade and soap box races. If you are looking to cool down, join the community of Winlaw for their annual celebration of giving thanks and honour to the local waters. Winlaw Water Days Festival is also a festival of kids activities, live music, markets and of course dancing. 

Revelstoke: Nocturnal Art

Join Revelstoke in their annual evening celebrations of music, arts and learning. During the day wander the alleyways to find ‘Alleries’ of local art. At night, watch the city light up with incredible installations and glowing displays. Luna Art Fest is for the curious, stay the weekend and join in Sunday workshops to hear the stories behind the work, ask questions and get inspired.

Don’t forget to check out the Kootenay Arts Events Calendar to keep up with the latest events and festivals happening in these communities.