Growing up in the Okanagan, we always looked forward to the Penticton Peach Festival , especially the parade and the fair rides. That festival is still going strong today, with many of the same beloved activities. Parades, square dancing, sandcastle competition, and music too. Lighthouse, one of my old favourite bands, is on the roster this year. There’s a lot more for the whole family and no admission charge.
Penticton also has its own brand of royalty, and Miss Penticton will be crowned during Peach Fest. I believe she used to be called Peach Queen. I was Miss Rotary one year and got to ride on the float in the parade! Still love the parade, there’s a regular one and a kiddie parade now. There are very few rides I can stomach anymore though. I tried the Octopus with my nephew last year but I embarrassed him with all my screaming. “Let me off, let me off now!”
While this festival began as a celebration of the peach, you may be hard pressed to find one at the venues. Except for the Giant Peach concession at Okanagan Lake. But they are in season, so check the fruit stands and farmers markets. The 65th annual Peach Fest runs August 8th to 12th.