Daring departure proposed from Kelowna’s traditional Ogopogo float theme

KELOWNA – For the first time in ages Ogopogo may be out as the theme for Kelowna’s parade float.

“It’s been that way for as far as I’ve looked back,” event development supervisor Mariko Siggers says.

Instead, look for a lake and mountain landscape with with a variety of recreational equipment bursting forth from it, like paddle boards, kayaks and bicycles.

Last updated in 2010, the official city float is themed around the famed lake monster and has been for ages.

There are four concepts on the table, including the Ogopogo theme, but Siggers says they are recommending another option with the theme Active By Nature, which at this point does not include the lake monster.

"You have about 10 seconds to get an image of a float into someone's head," she says. "At this point, we're looking at changing gears. I know Ogopogo has a strong place in tourism history in Kelowna but we think its time for change, to show a different side of the city.”

The current float has appeared in over 100 parades — logging 42,000 kilometres travelling to more than 55 cities — and is starting to show its steady use.

Siggers admits she’s not sure how councillors will react to changing a long-standing tradition.

“A lot of people in this community have a soft spot for Ogopogo and it’s (council's) decision to make so we will see."

Council has already approved a $20,000 make-over for the float and if they approve the concept at the April 25 council meeting, it can be ready for this summer's parade season, she says.

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