River clean-up, free art classes and Oktoberfest lined up for weekend

VERNON – There’s something for artists, astronomers and environmentalists this weekend in Vernon.

On Friday and Saturday, the Vernon Public Art Gallery is hosting Culture Days. There are three free workshops including live model drawing with Cheek to Cheek Dance Studio and drawing classes for kids. Culture Days raises the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities. Similar free events take place simultaneously across the country.

Saturday night, the Edelweiss Society of Vernon presents its annual Oktoberfest at the Schubert Centre. The evening includes ethnic music, food (traditional German fare such as bratwurst and sauerkraut, potato salad, dessert) as well as drinks supplied by the Schubert Centre staff as well as pretzels. Doors open at 7 p.m. Dance starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10 each and are available at the Schubert Centre.

Also on Saturday night, the Allan Brooks Nature Centre is hosting an astronomy night, from 8-11 p.m. Head over if you’ve always wanted to see the moon up close.
And/or, meet the new writer in residence at the Mackie Lake House Saturday night. Hear Leona Theis read selected works from 7-9 p.m. The Mackie Lake House Foundation and Okanagan College Kalamalka Press are hosting the event.

Sunday is B.C. Rivers Day, and events are lined up at Polson Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be activities for kids, food, educational exhibits and music.

Bring a jacket and umbrella, as Environment Canada is predicting clouds and possible showers over the weekend.