Kamloops has a full schedule of winter events that bring people together. Light displays, holiday markets, cultural performances, and outdoor activities offer something for everyone. Whether it's watching a parade, sampling seasonal food and drinks, or experiencing Indigenous traditions, these events highlight the community's traditions and local talent.
Annual Winter Festivals
Wildlights Festival at BC Wildlife Park
BC Wildlife Park is decorated with over a million lights each winter. The event includes synchronized light shows, family-friendly entertainment, and educational programs about the park’s animals. The holiday train offers rides around the park, giving visitors a view of the lights from a different perspective. Guests can also warm up by fire pits and enjoy seasonal treats.
Wildlights runs from mid-December to early January. The event supports the care of rescued wildlife, making it both a seasonal celebration and a fundraiser for the park.
Santa Claus Parade
The Santa Claus Parade is a tradition that draws crowds to downtown Kamloops. Floats decorated with seasonal themes, marching bands, and community groups fill the streets. Local businesses and organizations take part, making it a large-scale community effort. Santa Claus arrives on the final float, marking the start of the holiday season.
The parade usually takes place in late November. People line the streets early to get a good view. Some businesses set up hot chocolate stands or offer specials during the event.
Cultural and Artistic Events
Kamloops Film Festival
The Kamloops Film Festival runs in late February and early March. It features Canadian and international films across various genres. Independent and award-winning films are screened, with some showings including panel discussions or Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
The festival attracts both casual moviegoers and film enthusiasts. Special events such as themed screenings and social gatherings take place throughout the festival.
Western Canada Theatre’s Holiday Production
Western Canada Theatre stages a holiday production each year. Past performances have included classic stories, musical theatre, and adaptations of well-known tales. The production runs from late November through December, making it a holiday staple.
The performances take place at the Sagebrush Theatre. The theatre offers an opportunity for local actors and production teams to showcase their work.
Food and Drink Festivals
YKA Hot Chocolate Festival
The YKA Hot Chocolate Festival runs throughout February. Local cafés and restaurants create specialty hot chocolates for the event. Each location offers a different flavour, with some using unique ingredients or presentations.
Customers receive a festival passport to track the drinks they have tried. Some locations pair their drinks with pastries or desserts. The festival supports local businesses and encourages people to explore different cafés in Kamloops.
Family Day Festival at Tournament Capital Centre
The 11th Annual Family Day Festival is scheduled for February 17, 2025, at the Tournament Capital Centre. The event features booths from local organizations and businesses, face painting, an inflatable fun zone, live music, and various arts, crafts, sports, science activities, and local food vendors. This family-friendly event provides activities for all ages and promotes community engagement during the winter season.
Outdoor Recreational Events
Sun Peaks Holiday Kick-Off
Sun Peaks Resort marks the beginning of the holiday season with a series of events. The village is decorated with seasonal lights, and activities include an artisan market, live entertainment, and outdoor fire pits.
The Holiday Kick-Off takes place in mid-December. Visitors can shop for gifts, listen to live music, and enjoy the atmosphere of the mountain resort.
Snowy Paws at Monte Creek Winery
Monte Creek Winery hosts Snowy Paws in February. The event includes snowshoeing, wine tastings, and dog-friendly activities. Visitors can bring their dogs to explore the snow-covered vineyard trails.
Tastings feature Monte Creek’s wines, with experts on hand to discuss the flavours and winemaking process. The event provides an outdoor experience combined with seasonal drinks.
Kamloops/Shuswap Winter Glow Stick Party: Cross-Country Ski Edition
The Kamloops/Shuswap Winter Glow Stick Party is scheduled for February 28, 2025, at the Overlander Ski Club. Participants can enjoy a night ski illuminated by glow sticks, creating a unique and memorable experience.
This event encourages cross-country skiing in a festive atmosphere while providing an opportunity to socialize and take in the winter landscape under an illuminated setting.
Community Celebrations
Winter Fest at Thompson Rivers University
Winter Fest at Thompson Rivers University is a student-organized celebration held in late November. Activities include a tree lighting ceremony, live music, and holiday-themed stations for postcards and crafts.
Hot chocolate stands and fire pits offer places to gather. The event brings together students, faculty, and the broader community.
North Shore Christmas Community Celebration
The North Shore Christmas Community Celebration happens in early December. Santa and the Grinch make appearances, and a large Christmas tree is lit. Live performances and activities for children make it a family-friendly event.
The event is organized by local businesses and community groups. It takes place in a central location, making it accessible to residents and visitors.
Conclusion
Winter in Kamloops offers a mix of cultural, recreational, and family-friendly events. From dazzling light displays to film screenings, theatre performances, and outdoor activities, the city provides plenty of ways to enjoy the colder months. Local businesses, community groups, and event organizers contribute to a lively season filled with traditions and celebrations.
Attending these events is an opportunity to connect with the community, explore seasonal activities, and support local businesses. Whether it’s enjoying a holiday market, sipping a unique hot chocolate, or participating in a night ski, Kamloops has something for everyone throughout the winter season.
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