South Okanagan retro roller nights gaining traction

More opportunities are rolling out for quad skaters to make like a record by spinning around and around at a disco-themed parties in the South Okanagan.

Penticton Roller Skate only recently began hosting the events early in 2022, and to keep up with demand, a fifth and sixth event have been planned for the upcoming week.

“One of the best parts is watching the 70-plus skaters ripping around the rink like it was back in the day,” organizer Kim Wall said.

“When those lights turn down, it's totally your groovy traditional roller rink experience.”

With pandemic restrictions easing the capacity limits have increased, from a maximum of 60 at the first event to 150 now.

“We have to play roller disco songs, like Boogie Shoes (by KC and the Sunshine Band), any of the Beegees, and September by Earth, Wind & Fire – those are the Classics.”

However, skaters also seem to appreciate newer pop 40 music mixed into the playlist, Wall said.

She's noticed many of the attendees to be older adults who haven’t roller skated since their teen years.

“Some people find they put them on, get a few laps in, and it’s like riding a bike – it comes back. But sometimes it does feel a little bit more challenging than you remember. For those who are like Bambi on skates, they still had a really good time.”

Part of the success of the events in Penticton, Wall suspects, is due to the pandemic, as roller skating – a fun activity that can be done outdoors – was something easy to enjoy during those two years of restrictions.

And the fever is spreading further south down the Okanagan. Wall hosted an Oliver Roller Rink April 30, for two sessions.

The next event in Penticton is on May 14 at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. There will be two sessions beginning at 5 p.m.

For those without their own roller skates, there are over 70 pairs available to rent.

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