ARTS AND CULTURE
ABOUT
With an inspiring landscape, it’s no wonder that artists from all over the world are drawn to Summerland BC. Our vibrant artistic community offers endless opportunities to explore your inner painter, sculptor, actor or even handicraft maker. Enjoy art crawls, live music and heritage tours. We have a number of galleries in Summerland including the Summerland Arts Centre and Gallery where you can see works of art created by local and regional artists. Tour the Summerland Museum and immerse yourself in Summerland’s rich history. Come for the Summerland Bluegrass Festival, or relive your youth at our classic car museum. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll soon realize that Summerland locals love the arts.
With an inspiring landscape, it’s no wonder that artists from all over the world are drawn to Summerland BC. With an inspiring landscape, it’s no wonder that artists from all over the world are drawn to Summerland BC.
Art Walk
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.
Classic Car Culture
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.
Honouring Our Heritage
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.
Live Music
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.
Public Art
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.
Summerland Arts Centre & Gallery
Dig deeper into the Okanagan story at our local art gallery. See beautiful works of art by high-caliber local and regional artists. The Summerland Arts Centre and Gallery also nourishes an appreciation of the arts by facilitating workshops for children and adults, including a popular summer arts program.
Summerland Bluegrass Festival
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.
DIRECTORY
BeadTrails Experience Store
A self-guided tour to create a one-of-a-kind memory bracelet from your visit to the Okanagan.
Bruce Crawford Studio
A water media artist for more than 45 years, Bruce paints the Okanagan from his rustic garden studio.
Cherry Tree Quilt Shop and Studio
Destination of choice for quilters around the Okanagan.
Delong Studio
Extensive collection of handcrafted original sterling silver jewelry.
Elaine Watts Studio
Watercolours, Ink, Printmaking, mixed media. Part of the Summerland & Trout Creek Studio Tour group, located in the beautiful Okanagan Valley.
George Ryga Arts & Cultural Centre
Located downtown Summerland, featuring local artists and educational events.
Jean Evanishen Pottery
This unique studio features both functional and raku pottery.
