Arts and Culture

Many of our eateries, wineries and businesses act as impromptu galleries throughout the year, but every summer the creative pace picks up with the Summerland Art Walk, which is designed to enhance and connect the community.  Pick up a map from the Summerland Visitors’ Centre and spend an afternoon touring complimentary displays of divine paintings, designer outfits, pottery and jewelry.  Meet with artisans year-round as they work their craft in inspiring studios and galleries.  Check for opening hours, as some are by appointment only.

The bright, hand-painted banners fluttering in the breeze throughout downtown Summerland are created by community artists of every age and experience level.  Take a walk around our town and see the vibrant murals that artfully depict our story and character.  Spot our public sculptures such as the sundial at Spirit Square, or the healing Voice of Mother Earth in front of the museum.

Whether you search it out, or stumble upon it by accident, tapping into Summerland’s musical spirit will add that extra something to your Okanagan experience.  Many of our wineries and cafés offer live music, while our festivals will have you swaying to the sounds of up-and-coming and established artists. Make sure to check out our weekly live music shows at Wednesdays in the Park.

Love bluegrass?  So do we.  Music lovers from across Canada and the United States head to Summerland each year for this lively and family-friendly Bluegrass Festival.  Take along an acoustic instrument and jam, or just settle in and enjoy the sounds of country and bluegrass at the Summerland Rodeo Grounds.

Summerland has a rich history which is captured at the Summerland Museum and in murals and buildings around the town.  The museum has brochures for self-guided tours of historic sites and buildings, and a map of protected trees that have historic significance, including a 250 year old Ponderosa Pine at the entrance of the Peach Orchard Road campsite.  Pick up a map of the Centennial Trail at the Summerland Visitor Centre to explore the first town-site of Summerland.  The Kettle Valley Steam Railway has preserved a unique aspect of B.C. history, boasting the only preserved section of the Kettle Valley Railway and a century-old steam train, which brings the past to life on a ten mile scenic journey.

Come and join in, or just watch the spirited debates that unfold at the Philosophers Café. The Summerland Arts Council hosts the fun and stimulating evenings that encourage discussion on the issues that touch our lives.  Whatever the question, the conversation is always enlightening.

Re-live the head-turning graceful curves of a star from a by-gone era and the internal sound track of the open road in the ‘60’s.  The Nixdorf Classic Car Museum has over 70 classic cars, while the Endless Summer Show and Shine is an event where over 200 classic and vintage cars take over downtown Summerland each September.