Midsummer's Eve of the Arts | Vernon Public Art Gallery

Vernon Public Art Gallery Celebrates 40 Years of Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts

The Vernon Public Art Gallery (VPAG) and Bannister Honda and GM are excited to celebrate this year’s Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts. In its 40th year, this popular fundraising art auction will take place on July 15, 2026, at Coldstream Community Hall. The event will feature a selection of artwork donated by local artists alongside luxury and experience-based packages contributed by businesses throughout the province. Proceeds support the VPAG’s exhibitions, educational programming, and community initiatives.

As Vernon’s longest-running art auction, the annual Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts fundraiser is a staple event in the Greater Vernon community, providing an opportunity for more than 200 art enthusiasts and philanthropists to support a great cause. Every year, the VPAG brings the community together for this exciting art auction gala, which features a live auction run by auctioneer Don Raffan. Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts showcases the diverse talents of local artists, whose works are auctioned off to raise funds for the VPAG’s exhibitions and programs. The impacts of this event are far reaching and made possible through the generosity of our artists, businesses, volunteers, and event attendees. Tickets are on sale now, with both individual tickets and VIP tables available. For tickets and event information, visit the VPAG website.

“Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts is a magical evening that brings together artists, businesses, volunteers, and community supporters in celebration of the visual arts,” says Dauna Kennedy, Executive Director of the Vernon Public Art Gallery. “As we celebrate the event’s 40th anniversary, I am excited to gather with our community to honour this milestone and recognize the incredible generosity that has helped support the gallery over the years. The funds raised through this event allow us to continue providing exhibitions, educational opportunities, and meaningful arts experiences for our community.”

The evening will feature both live and silent auctions, showcasing one-of-a-kind works of art available for bidding and unique luxury packages donated from businesses across the region, including multiple travel packages to destinations across BC. Attendees can bid in the auctions while enjoying the ambiance of Coldstream Hall, amidst the scenic Coldstream landscape. Attendees will be welcomed to the event with a complimentary signature beverage and have the chance to enjoy exquisite local BC wine, beer provided by Okanagan Springs, and delicious hors d’oeuvres catered by Uprooted Kitchen and Catering, Gumtree Catering, and Apéro Catering. Thank you to our partners for their support of this event.

Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts is proudly presented by Bannister Honda and Bannister GM. Additional event sponsors include Clark Robinson Chartered Professional Accountants, Nixon Wenger LLP, Beach Radio, Wayside Co., and Don Raffan of Valley Auctions.