3 Family-Friendly Places to visit in Penticton, BC this Summer
The Summer is here and we know that finding family-friendly places to visit is a must for family vacations. Penticton, British Columbia is a somewhat undiscovered beauty to many tourists and BC residents.
With a population of nearly 40,000 people the city is in the region of the Okanagan, and is one of only two cities in the world that is located between two lakes…how amazing!
The amazement of Penticton doesn’t stop there. If you’re looking for the best time to explore the wonders of Penticton, the Summer is when the city truly comes to life.
From the fun family-friendly fairs and festivals to the 15 acres of rich sandy beaches, Penticton is a wonderful destination to enjoy long summer days and nights.
Here are a selection of the best family-friendly things to do and places to visit in Penticton this Summer.
1. Fun Fairs and Festivals
Penticton Spring Fling at the SOEC
While Summer may not be in full swing just yet, this event kicks things off in mid/late May.
The Penticton Spring Fling festival is a popular 4 day event that starts from Thursday, May 23rd and continues to Sunday, May 26th. It’s located at the South Okanagan Events Center – 853 Eckhardt Ave. W, Penticton BC V2A 9C4.
Shooting Star Amusements Midway Carnival
Classic and thrilling rides, fun games and yummy food is what you can expect when Shooting Star Amusements roll into town for this 4-day fun festival.
The carnival hours are as follows:
Thursday, 4-9 PM,
Friday, 4-11 PM,
Saturday 11AM-11PM,
Sunday 12 PM- 5 PM
The carnival closing times are subject to change (based on weather and attendance). It’s best to make sure you like the Shooting Star Amusements Facebook Page to stay up-to-date on all info for the event!
Love specials? Regular prices wristbands are $40, pay one price and ride all day!
Save more when you take part in the ‘Show Us Your Phone’ promo.
On Thursday, Friday & Sunday get $10 off wristbands when you ‘Like our page, share a post & show us your phone’ at the ticket desk.
Want a tip that prevents frustration on the day? Like the page and share a post before you get to the event and screenshot out Facebook page so it’s saved in your phone, ready for when you get to the ticket booth on the day.
Penticton Peach Fest 2019
If you missed Shooting Star Amusements in May or you’re waiting to ride your fav ride again, Penticton Peach Fest is the event for you.
Penticton Peach Fest takes place over 5 days in the peak of Summer from August 7 – August 11th.
In it’s 72nd year, the Peach Fest boasts as being one of the best free to attend family festivals in BC.
This festival is jam packed with a wide variety of entertainment from parades, belly dancers, to film festivals and many events suitable for kids like McDonald’s kiddies day and Shooting Star Amusements midway carnival.
Shooting Star Amusements Carnival Opening hours are:
Wednesday 5-10PM
Thursday 5-10PM
Friday 5-11PM
Saturday 12-11PM
Sunday 12-8PM
Save money when you buy a wristband for the day, and look out for specials on our website and Facebook page.
The special for this event is the ‘Show Us Your Phone’ promo. ‘Like our Facebook page, share a post & show us your phone’ at the ticket desk.
2. Live the Beach Life
Penticton’s beaches are beautiful and frequently voted in the top 3 beaches in Canada and just voted the best beach in Canada by Chatelaine.
Skaha Beach in particular is perfect for being beautiful, scenic and family friendly. You get to choose the type of vacation you want. Relaxation or entertainment, this beach has everything you need.
Fun fact: This beach is home to the Sand art competition that takes place during Penticton Peach Fest!
Looking for more? Penticton’s largest beach is the Okanagan beach, with swimming areas and kids slides.
Interested in day moorage boating? Try Three mile beach, located on Okanagan Lake.
3. Sweet Treats
Is it really Summer without the sweet treats?
The Peach Ice Cream Shop.
You can’t miss the iconic giant peach located on Okanagan Lake. That is home to the yummy Peach Ice Cream shop and their Crazy Shakes creations.
Summerland Sweets
Summerland Sweets is a family owned and operated business from the 1950’s.
Support a local business and indulge in jams, syrups and nut brittles to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Bonus: Wineries and Craft Breweries
Penticton is home to over 20 wineries and 5 craft breweries. Probably best for child-free days, the Ale Trail in Penticton maps out 3 days of the best trail with restaurants and perfect ale pit stops.
