Thousands gathered in Summerland on the weekend for the 35th annual Summerland Action Festival.
According to estimates from the organizers, more than 16,000 people attended the various weekend events.
The three-day festival featured plenty of live music, entertainment, vendors, a parade and a fireworks show.
But at its core, it is, at it has always been, a celebration of sport and activity.
The ball tournament drew more than 80 teams, from Summerland and around the province. This number represents hundreds of athletes.
Hundreds more took part in the 5.4-kilometre and 10-kilometre Giant’s Head Run and the Man of Steel triathlon.
While some of the participants are highly competitive, others take part in these events simply to enjoy a time of action.
This level of participation is impressive, and it speaks to the value Summerlanders place on sport, fitness and activity.
Over the years, Summerland has worked on creating spaces for recreation and fitness. As a result, we now have enough playing fields to accommodate a large-scale ball tournament.
We also have no shortage of walking paths and trails, as well as venues for hockey, swimming and curling.
Sport is important in this community. For many, sport and fitness are important parts of their lifestyle.
The Action Festival has helped to enhance the strong culture of sport and recreation within this community.
And the presence of playing fields and other amenities has benefitted the Action Festival as well.
Summerland continues to place a high value on fitness and recreation.
The Action Festival shows that a focus on sport is not just good for the community, but can also draw visitors to participate with us.