Naramata May Day 2023

The 100th annual Naramata May Day event is taking place in Electoral Area “E” of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) over the May long weekend. Many activities are planned to celebrate this special occasion, including the traditional Maypole Dance, games, and a barbeque lunch. The schedule of events is as follows:Friday, May 19th Soapbox Race 1:00 to 2:00 pm at the corner of Ellis Avenue and 8th Street, Penticton. Grade 5 children will race their personally designed and constructed soapboxes down Ellis Avenue with the guidance of the Naramata Fire Department. Event is open to the public. May Day Family Dance 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Naramata Elementary School gymnasium, 3660 8th Street, Naramata. A community-driven dance that will celebrate past and current May Day participants with live music, a photo booth, and snacks. Event is for alumni of Naramata Elementary School and May Day.Sunday, May 21st May Day Open House 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Naramata Museum, 214 Robinson Avenue, Naramata. This event will pay homage to the past 100 years with a collection of pictures, memorabilia, and various items from past May Day celebrations. Event is open to the public.Monday, May 22nd May Day Parade and Ceremony 10:30 am to 2:00 pm in Manitou Park, Dorothy Road, Naramata. The day will start off with a children’s parade, followed by a traditional Maypole Dance by Naramata Elementary School students and community members, a decorated bike contest, traditional races and games including a potato sack race, a silver spoon race, and a tug of war. The OAP (Old Age Pensioners) will be onsite serving a barbequed dinner and celebratory cake. Events are open to the public.May Day is a community-driven event planned by passionate groups and members of the community. It is their dedication, vision, and desire that continue this annual beloved tradition