If you’ve already purchased tickets for the 2020 Great Okanagan Beer Festival in Kelowna, you should know your tickets will still be valid in the event the festival is rescheduled for late summer or early fall.
Keeping the health and safety of attendees, staff and the community a top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic, and adhering to the prohibition of gatherings over 50 people, organizer Gibbons Whistler has put the festival on hold for now. It was originally slated for May 3-10, with an expanded main event in Waterfront Park.
The good news is organizers are working with their partners, including the Train Station Pub, to explore alternative dates to host the event, which traditionally sells out. All tickets will be valid for the rescheduled dates, which will be announced as soon as possible.
Here’s a taste of what the festival offers, courtesy Brittia Thompson, Gibbons Whistler marketing manager:
- Showcasing B.C.’s best – With a focus on B.C. craft breweries and cideries, and each vendor offering two options, you’ve got plenty of beverage choices. Brewers are vying to win a draft line at the Train Station for a year, so they’re sure to bring their best. Watch for the People’s Choice voting option!
- New to the festival? – Plenty of special beer-inspired events are planned at local pubs and eateries throughout the week. Gear up for the main event with a pre-game brunch at the Train Station Pub, presented by Grimm’s Fine Foods.
- Special getaway rates – Five local accommodation partners with special room rates means the festival has you covered if you’re arriving from out of town, or simply want to stay downtown rather than make your way home.
- Food truck heaven – With on-site dining options ranging from gourmet sandwiches and burgers to coastal cuisine, wings and pizza, you’re sure to find a taste that pairs well with your beverages.
- Pick a persona – If you haven’t already figured out a personal or group theme, the annual costume contest bumps up the fun level, Brittia says. “We’ve seen everything from lifeguards to a jungle safari theme to Cards Against Humanity. People go all out for a chance to win entry into the next year’s festival.”
- Keeping you entertained – Musical offerings keeping the beats going through the week include Kelowna’s own The Feels and DJ Kita, Red Chair from Whistler and more.
Ticket holders are asked to wait to request a refund until new dates are announced. If you cannot make the rescheduled dates, you will be refunded in a short time. Find updates on the festival status on the festival’s Facebook or Instagram pages.
