Winter in Vernon is such a pleasure. With the gorgeous views and the small-town vibe, it’s easy to get into the festive Christmas spirit.
There are plenty of things to check out this holiday season, but we’ve compiled the very best to save you some time.
Here are some merry activities to check out this December, curated by Tourism Vernon.
What: The Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre is a local non-profit devoted to fostering artists and incredible live performances. The holiday season is when these local artists really get to shine.
Throughout December, they’re offering a variety of family-friendly performances. On Dec. 10, Vernon local with five top 10 songs Andrew Allen is back with his Annual Christmas Show, All Hearts Come Home. Enjoy Allen’s renditions of Christmas classics and his upbeat originals will surely get you into the Christmas spirit and have you smiling and singing along.
Dec. 18, you can enjoy your favourite seasonal songs, brought to life by Ken Lavigne and the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, with special appearances by local children's choirs. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season with the family.
Enjoy a stunning performance of The Nutcracker put on by one of the best ballet schools in the Okanagan, Mission Dance Centre & Company. Watch the age-old tale unfold through dance as you follow young Clara through her extraordinary dream of an adventure. This show is child friendly, yet entertaining for all generations.
When: You can find the showtimes and tickets for these performances (and more) at Ticket Seller.
Where: The Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre, located at 3800 33 St.
Cost: Prices vary depending on which performance you want to attend.
What: This immersive walking theatrical experience is an iconic joint production between two of Vernon’s favourites - O’Keefe Ranch and the Powerhouse Theatre.
You will travel on foot and wagon between each of the historic buildings on the O’Keefe Ranch and get to witness and participate in this heartwarming story.
There are three performances each evening with 15 patrons per performance.
When: The festive production will be taking place Dec 6 and 13, at 6 pm, 6:45 pm and 7:30 pm.
Where: The Historic O'Keefe Ranch.
Cost: Tickets can be purchased here and are $75 per person.
What: Here’s your chance to experience the Christmas spirit in all of the different areas of Vernon – for free.
For the fourth year, local Realtor John Christmas has compiled his favourite 20 holiday homes for his self-guided tour. This year's tour is in partnership with NONA Lights For Kids. NONA's programs help families and caregivers of children with a wide range of developmental challenges in our community.
Check out these beautifully decorated homes while you sip on your favourite warm beverage.
When: You can experience this self-guided tour from now until Dec 31.
Where: All over Vernon. Click here for the addresses and Google Map.
Cost: The tour is free, but locals are encouraged to make a donation to NONA so they can continue to fund their valuable programs. You can make a donation here.
What: Enjoy a new take on the holiday classic It’s a Wonderful Life by celebrated slam poet and playwright Luke Reece, while you go from scene to scene on a horse-drawn carriage.
Now in its 34th year, the Winter Sleigh Ride Show is a beloved winter Okanagan holiday tradition. Join the incredible cast, crew, teamsters and horses as you embark on a beautiful theatrical journey together!
When: This Okanagan tradition runs from Dec 6 - 31, and showtimes vary. To see the schedule and get your tickets, click here.
Where: 4886 Salmon River Rd in Armstrong.
Cost: Ticket prices vary from $60 for adults on regular nights and $70 on weekends and holidays. Children 3 years of age and younger are free.
Want to see what else is going on in Vernon this December? Check out the Tourism Vernon Events Calendar.
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