Fall is here and it’s time to get festive. Whether you’re looking for the best Halloweek-end parties or simply trying to embrace the coziest season, Kamloops offers plenty of opportunities to fill your schedule. Here are seven activities you won’t want to miss.
Privatio Pumpkin Patch
Need a break from the scares this season? Take a stroll through Privatio Vineyard and Winery’s pumpkin patch. From Sept. 27 to Oct. 26, the patch will be open Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost $10 for a single adult (19+) walkthrough, $15 for a single adult walkthrough with a take-home pumpkin and $25 for a family pass, which includes two adults, up to four children (18 and under) and two take-home pumpkins.
Privato Vineyard & Winery is located at 5505 Westsyde Road.
Ghouls Night Out ceramic event
Kamloops Art Party invites you to a scary-fun Halloween ceramic hand-sculpting night on Oct. 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Craft a ceramic ghost or pumpkin tea light holder with guidance from artist Liz Thiessen. All materials provided. Tickets are $89 and may be purchased here.
Kamloops Art Party is located at 177 Tranquille Road.
Harvest Hues Sip and Paint night
On Oct. 18, Kamloops Art Party will host another spooky event, the Harvest Hues Sip and Paint night, at McCracken Station Pub from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Participants will each create a festive pumpkin painting guided by local artist Kelly Manson. All materials will be supplied and the entire McCracken menu will be available. This event is beginner-friendly, so no previous painting experience is required. You must be at least 19 years old to attend. Seating is limited, so participants are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance here. Tickets are $55 per person.
McCracken Pub is located at 1626 Valleyview Drive.
Drag Queen Scary Story Hour
Join Haus of Misfit for a fabulous and Halloween-themed drag queen story hour on Oct. 19 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. At this family-friendly event, parents and children are all welcome and encouraged to wear costumes. The two-hour event will feature two stories and a Halloween mask craft. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are $5 per child. To pre-register for tickets, click here.
Haus of Misfit is located at 275 Tranquille Road.
Glow Crazy Fun Run
On Oct. 24, Miles for Smiles Cancer Foundation is hosting a run for spooky season. Choose between a 3km or 5km walk/run through a glowstick-lit course. Festive Halloween tunes and sweet treats will be provided to boost your energy. Participants are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes and bring extra glow sticks to help light up the course even more. All ages are welcome. The event goes from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at McArthur Island Park. Tickets are by donation. RSVP on their Instagram Miles For Smiles Cancer. All proceeds will go towards the Miles for Smiles Cancer Foundation.
McArthur Island Park is located at 1655 Island Parkway.
Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Paramount Theatre
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the Kamloops Film Society (KFS) will screen the film on Oct. 25.
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., followed by a costume contest at 7:00 p.m. with prizes provided by the KFS. The show itself will start at 8:00 p.m. Rocky Horror is known for its interactive audience participation, so come dressed as your favourite character and remember to purchase a prop bag when you arrive. General admission tickets are $13.81, but student and senior tickets are $10.95.
The Kamloops Film Society and Paramount Theatre are located at 503 Victoria Street.
Valley Markets’ Fall Market
Browse handmade crafts, festive treats and fall-themed decor at Valley Markets’ fall market on Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sahali Mall. Come out to support local vendors while you shop for unique and handcrafted items. Whether you’re decorating for the season, shopping for the holidays, or just looking to enjoy the fall atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.
Sahali Mall is located at 945 Columbia Street.
DreamHaus Sessions Halloween event
The Commodore Grande Cafe & Lounge presents DreamHaus Sessions Halloween party on Oct. 31. Come dressed in your favourite spooky, scary, or fabulous costume for a chance to win some great prizes! Doors open at 9 pm, and the entry cover is $10. Attendees must be 19 years of age or older, so please remember to bring your ID.
Commodore Grande Cafe is located at 369 Victoria Street.
Kamloops Pumpkin Smash
Need a use for your Jack-O-Lanterns after Halloween? Bring them down to McArthur Island Park on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the pumpkin smash. A wide range of activities will be provided so you can use up your old pumpkins. Enjoy games like bowling, cornhole and pumpkin piñata. If you didn’t carve pumpkins this year, don’t worry. Extra pumpkins will be provided. All pumpkins will be composted. No registration is required, and people of all ages are welcome to attend.
McArthur Island Park is located at 1655 Island Parkway.