B.C. government grants Penticton $1M for return of 22 local events and festivals

Some of Penticton’s biggest and best festivals, races and events are getting some financial help to make a big return in 2022.

The B.C. government is providing over $1 million in grants to support Penticton and the return of 22 local events including Grandfondo, Peachfest, Elvis Festival, Rib Fest and Penticton Dragon Boat Festival to name a few.

The 22 events, which includes the 60th anniversary BCHL All-Star Game in January, were selected as part of B.C.’s Fairs, Festivals and Events Recovery Fund.

B.C. is spending almost $30 million to help events around the province resume safely, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1.06 million from the province is a one-time grant given to Penticton for eligible events around the city.

Events that qualify for the grant demonstrated economical and social benefits to the community with strong local support, according to the province.

Health and safety measures, venue rental, operational costs, marketing, promotion and wages are included as eligible expenses.

A number of gatherings around Penticton have been cancelled or postponed over the last 20 months but the following 22 events will return safely, supported by the government’s million-dollar grant:

• The BCHL’s 60th Anniversary event

• 97 South Song Sessions - 4th Annual

• Expedition Canada

• Grandfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan

• Ha Ha Ha Kidzfest

• IRONMAN Canada - Penticton

• Meadowlark Nature Festival

• Nu Floors Penticton Curling Classic’

• Okanagan Mascot Games

• Okanagan Trestles Tour

• Peach City Beach Cruise

• Peach Classic Triathlon

• Peachfest

• Pentastic Jazz & Musical Festival

• Penticton Dragon Boat Festival

• Penticton Elvis Festival

• Penticton Kiwanis Music, Dance & Speech Arts Festival

• Penticton Scottish Festival & Highland Games

• Ribfest, Rotary Club of Penticton

• The BC Bike Race

• Ignite the Arts Festival

• Kettle Mettle Gravel Fondo

READ MORE: Mini Peach Fest coming to Penticton this summer