Wings Over the Rockies
Destination BC
Why not build your summer travel plans around one of BC’s don’t-miss festivals? Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Wings Over the Rockies - Columbia Valley, May 8-14
Now in its 21st year, Wings Over the Rockies celebrates the Columbia Valley’s location along the Pacific Flyway, a major migration route. The Columbia Valley Wetlands are the longest continuous wetlands in North America, and more than 260 species of birds either call this area home, or pass through annually. The festival is jam packed with events. Learn more here.
2. Great Okanagan Beer Festival - Kelowna, May 11-13
Lovers of craft beer rejoice! The Great Okanagan Beer Festival starts with a series of tap takeovers, beer-pairing food events, and more at local pubs around Kelowna. The main tasting event is on Saturday, May 13, with dozens of BC's best breweries on hand. Learn more here.
3. BC Shellfish & Seafood Festival - Comox Valley, June 9-18
The BC Shellfish & Seafood Festival offers a range of experiences to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of BC’s seafood industry. Their signature event on Sunday, June 18 features tasting booths, celebrity chef demonstrations, and the Fanny Bay Oyster Shucking Championship. Add to the fun of the festival by registering for some of the 45+ events and tours on offer. Learn more here.
4. Atlin Arts and Music Festival - Atlin, July 7-9
Grassroots Fest in BC’s North! Musicians and visual artists come together during the Atlin Arts and Music Festival. Visit this beautiful, remote town in the northwest corner of the province to hear folk and rock music, and see artists at work—all set against Atlin's stunning lake and mountain backdrop. Learn more here.
5. Carnaval del Sol - Vancouver, July 8-9
More than 250 Latin performers! Watch musicians, visual artists, and dancers perform at Carnaval del Sol, the biggest Latin festival in the Pacific Northwest. See traditional folk dances, watch painters at work, enjoy cuisine prepared by 20+ food vendors, and even take in a fashion show. Learn more here.
6. Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival - Squamish, Aug 3-7
What’s more Canadian than the picture of a burly lumberjack, axe in hand? At the Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival, this iconic image is on full display as competitors at a range of skill levels race one another up 80-foot trees, throw axes, show off their chopping skills, and fall trees. Other sights you don’t want to miss include the annual parade, a family favourite, and the Squamish Days Bed Races. Learn more here.
7. South Cariboo Garlic Festival - Lac La Hache, Aug. 26-27
For a stinkin’ good time! Sample garlicky treats from on-site concession stands at the South Cariboo Garlic Festival. Dozens of vendors offer a variety of local wares, including clothing, jewelry, natural wellness products, artisan foods, and, of course, all things garlic. Learn more here.
8. Vancouver Island Blues Bash - Victoria, Sept. 2-4
The festival features blues and R&B artists performing on a stage overlooking Victoria’s scenic Inner Harbour. Watch boat traffic come and go, and see floatplanes take off and land in the background as you enjoy a combination of free and paid performances. Learn more here.
Discover more BC Festivals by clicking here.