October has arrived in Kamloops, and with it comes the unmistakable chill in the air, signaling the official arrival of spooky season. The aroma of pumpkin spice wafts from every cafe and bakery, Mother Nature is hard at work putting on a colour show, and the promise of Halloween and delicious treats lurks around every corner. October isn't for slowing down; the fun is just revving up. Get inspired by these local events happening in Kamloops to kick off your Fall bucket list!
Bike, Bite and Boogie
October 7th marks the day when Oktoberfest kicks off with a bang. This action-packed event promises a day filled with excitement for the whole family. Nestled in the heart of Harper Mountain, prepare for a day of adrenaline-pumping bike races, where daredevils from all around will compete for glory. Meanwhile, on the main stage, musical acts will have you movin' and groovin'. Don't consider yourself a mountain biker? No problem. This event is open to everyone to come enjoy the festivities!
But that's not all; Oktoberfest is a feast for the taste buds, too! Food trucks and local breweries like Biggz BBQ, Fat Frank's Hot Dog Stand, Iron Road Brewing, Red Collar Brewing & Distilling Co and more will be serving up delicious eats and refreshing drinks. As the sun begins its descent, secure your prime spot in front of the stage to dance the night away with an amazing lineup of bands including Sparrow Blue, Sons & Daughter and Five Alarm Funk. Oktoberfest is an event you won't want to miss, and the best part? It's family-friendly, making it the perfect outing for everyone!
The Nitty Gritty:
Funduro Registration - $85 + fees
General Admission - $45 + fees
Kids 12 and under - FREE
Check out all the event details for the full bike schedule and music lineup, and secure your tickets here!
Stseptékwles re Sk'elép (Coyote Stories) Indigenous Film Festival
From October 12th to 14th, the Kamloops Film Society and Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc proudly present the 2nd Annual Stseptékwles re Sk’elép (Coyote Stories) Indigenous Film Festival at the Paramount Theatre. This event is a celebration of Indigenous culture and storytelling through the medium of film. Featuring multiple feature films and special engagement events that highlight various Indigenous artists, this festival promises to be a weekend of cultural enrichment and cinematic excellence you won't want to miss out on.
Light Up Your Life With Luminocity
Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing Luminocity 2023, taking place from October 14th to 21st in Downtown Kamloops. This free event, inspired by popular public art festivals, aims to transform urban landscapes into a canvas of light and creativity. Witness projections on building façades and from windows, and marvel at site-specific installations at Riverside Park.
Luminocity brings together diverse video art projects, previously confined to gallery settings, and showcases them in the open air. It's a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Kamloops from a new perspective while immersing yourself in the world of contemporary art.
Crisp Air, Fresh Fare
If you're looking for a more laid-back but equally delightful experience, make sure to visit everyone's favourite outdoor Saturday Kamloops Farmers Market before it wraps up for the season at the end of this month. Pumpkins, donuts, coffee and fresh fall produce are calling your name! It's the perfect time to stock up on all your Thanksgiving fixings or find a local craft that will make the perfect holiday gift (tap on the shoulder for getting your shopping done early!)
Craving more fresh vegetables and baked goods? You're in luck! The Kamloops Farmers Market also features a midweek outdoor market on Wednesdays in Downtown Kamloops on the 400th block of Victoria Street, 8:30am-1:30pm. Happy market hopping!
Axe-citing Day Out
Get ready for a smashing good time at the 2nd Annual Pumpkin Pop Up event hosted by Cleavage Axe Co! This fall extravaganza promises a day filled with family-friendly fun and thrilling activities. From axe throwing to pumpkin smashing, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can indulge in free activities like marshmallow roasting, zipping around in a maze, picking the perfect pumpkin, and even carving their gourd masterpieces. It's the ultimate seasonal celebration that combines adrenaline-pumping action with the charm of the fall traditions we all know and love.
Boo and View
This October, embrace the Halloween spirit like never before with a thrilling lineup of spooky flicks at the Kamloops Paramount Theatre. Mark your calendars for spine-tingling screenings that are sure to have you on the edge of your seat.
On October 13th, dive into the classic horror of "The Exorcist," a film that has haunted audiences for generations. October 19th, prepare for chills as you watch "Satan Wants You," a devilishly intriguing tale. Then, on October 26th, step into the surreal world of "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari," a masterpiece of silent film that remains captivating to this day. Finally, don't miss the unforgettable experience of "Rocky Horror Picture Show" on October 27th and 28th, where audience participation takes the spooky fun to a whole new level. Prepare for a month filled with cinematic chills that will have you counting down the days to Halloween!
Calling All Locals: Got a library card? Paramount Theatre passes can be borrowed from any Thompson-Nicola Regional Library. The pass may be borrowed for 1 week and is valid for 1 visit. Make sure to bring your TNRL card and Paramount Theatre pass with you to the admission counter.
As October dances onto the scene, there is an experience tailored to every whim and fancy. Whether you're a thrill-seeking daredevil, a film fanatic, or an art aficionado, October is your playground of possibilities. Dive into the magic of sweater weather, and let those pumpkins be your compass on a journey through Kamloops.
Don't forget to keep us in the 'Loop with your incredible adventures this month. Snap those memorable moments and share your journey with us by tagging @tourismkamloops and using the hashtag #ExploreKamloops.
