There will be busking in Kelowna this summer

There will be buskers entertaining passersby on downtown Kelowna streets this summer.

Festivals Kelowna has announced the busking program will be back this summer now that COVID-19 restrictions are being loosened in the province.

Social distancing measures will be in place, according to executive director Renata Mills in a media release posted to the Festivals Kelowna website.

“We know our community has been greatly impacted by the pandemic and Festivals Kelowna wants to offer support in the ways we can,” she said in the release.

READ MORE: Frustrated by busking bylaw, Kelowna councillor threatens musical disobedience

Initially, only 20 summer permits will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. That number will increase of approved by the City.

A reduced number of busking stops will be available to allow for social distancing between buskers and the public. The performers will also be given signs to encourage physical distancing.

In past years, there were busking stops set up in Kelowna's downtown core, along the waterfront walkways, City Park, throughout the Cultural District and a few locations in South Pandosy area. Festivals Kelowna doesn't indicate where the busking stops will be this summer.

Busking applications will be held by appointment only. To book an appointment call Grace at 250-868-3307.

For more information visit Festivals Kelowna’s website here.


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Carli Berry

Carli Berry has been telling stories in the Okanagan for the past three years and after finding her footing in the newspaper industry, joined the Infonews team in January 2020. Recipient of the 2019 MA Murray award for feature writing, Carli is passionate about stories that involve housing, business and the environment. Born on Vancouver Island, she is happy to say Okanagan Lake reminds, her slightly, of the ocean. Carli can be reached at (250) 864-7494 or email cberry@infonews.ca.