Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Road Closure Information
The Celebration will draw many spectators and safety is critical to a successful Celebration, so traffic will be diverted. Watch for updated traffic control details to be posted regularly.

Will food and beverages be available on-site during the event?
Various vendors will have food and beverages available for purchase on-site during the Celebration. Please remember to drink lots of water while in the sun. The Bridging Communities Celebration is a family-oriented, non-alcoholic celebration. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Will I be permitted to run or walk across the bridge during the Opening Ceremonies?
The public will be able to visit the Bridge in the afternoon. Running on the bridge deck will not be permitted during the Celebration.

Can I ride my bicycle, rollerblade or roller skate to or in the event area on the day of the Opening??
As we expect a lot of people at the event, bikes; skateboards; roller skates; rollerblades and any other moving equipment (with the exception of manual or motorized wheelchairs) will not be permitted on the bridge deck during the Official Opening Celebration, other than those designated as participants in the Official Ceremonies. Bicycle racks are available in City Park and Festivals Kelowna Bridge Celebration will not be responsible for lost, stolen or damaged bicycles.

Once the Bridge is open, there will be a three metre wide sidewalk located on the south side of the new bridge for cyclists and pedestrians.

Tips for Boat Owners
Boat owners are invited to participate in the Bridging Communities Parade of Boats. Get family and friends together, dress your boat up with lights and/or decorations and head for the Yacht Club starting point. For information regarding participation, please go online to http://www.kelownayachtclub.com/BridgingCommunities.htm.

Transport Canada works with industry and the public to regulate, promote and enforce safe and sustainable marine practices. It will be extremely busy on the water so make sure you're up to date with all the latest safety tips by visiting http://www.tc.gc.ca/marine/menu.htm

Where can I park?
Plan ahead. With street closures and crowds, we suggest you allow plenty of time to get to your destinations. City of Kelowna downtown metered, reserved lots and on-street parking are free on Sundays. The City of Kelowna operates two parkades; Library Plaza Parkade located at1360 Ellis Street and Chapman Parkade located at 345 Lawrence Avenue. The Celebration will draw many spectators and safety is critical to a successful Celebration, so traffic will be diverted. Watch for updated traffic control details to be posted regularly.
Overnight Camping is not permitted on any City of Kelowna parking lots.

Is the Celebration accessible for people with physical disabilities?
To deliver an accessible event experience, the Celebration Committee is ensuring barrier-free access for persons with a disability.

Are there ticketed events scheduled?
All events will be provided free-of-charge, encouraging active participation by all members of the community and visitors. Onsite charges only apply for food and beverage.

What facilities are available in City Park during the Celebration?
City Park washrooms are located at the City Pavilion at Cold Sands Beach, Hot Sands Beach and Jubilee Bowl Grandstands. Portable toilets will also be available on site during the Celebration.

Various vendors will have food and beverages available for purchase on-site during the Celebration.

Visit the on-site information kiosk for the most current Celebration details when you arrive to City Park Sunday, May 25th.

Note To Pet Owners
We are encouraging pet owners in to keep pets at home for the safety of both pets and public. Pets will not be permitted on the bridge deck during the Celebration, with the exception of guide dogs for blind and visually impaired. Please be aware that the noise from fireworks can be harmful to your pet’s ears. While City Park permit dogs on leash, we request that dogs be kept on the sidewalk or trails. Dogs must be in the control of their owners at all times, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets immediately.

Where can I find accommodations?
http://www.tourismkelowna.com/visitors/wheretostay/accommodation.php
Overnight Camping is not permitted on any City of Kelowna parking lots.

Safety Tips

  • Remember hats, sun glasses, sun block and comfortable footwear.
  • Don't dig holes in the beach. Sand pits cause accidents in the dark.
  • Keep glass off the beach.
  • Clean up your spot and take garbage with you.
  • Bring a flashlight so you can see the ground and avoid accidents in the dark.
  • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
  • Report lost children to the nearest police, security or information kiosk.
  • Choose a meeting spot in case you get lost.
  • Boaters, read about boating safety by visiting http://www.tc.gc.ca/marine/menu.htm
  • Respect your environment and do not leave litter in the park or on the streets. The Celebration Site will be well equipped with trash and recycling containers throughout.  Please help us to keep the site clean by placing garbage and recyclables in the appropriate containers provided.