The holidays are nearly upon us. With the jingle of bells, the scent of peppermint in the air, and the nipping of Jack Frost at our fingertips, we know that soon we’ll be nestled in the long, dark days of winter. What better time to plan a short getaway to another corner of the province: a place where history and adventure lie beneath a quiet dusting of the world’s finest snow?
Welcome to the Kootenays, that southeastern pocket of British Columbia nestled in a valley surrounded by the Selkirk, Monashee, and Purcell mountain ranges. The Nelson and Kootenay Lake communities sprang up along the Kootenay river and lake over one hundred years ago. Today the region boasts beautifully restored heritage towns, thriving arts communities and gold rush boomtowns. Envision a visit filled with nordic skiing, hot cider on historic town streets, or soaking the worries of the city away in the steaming waters of Ainsworth Hot Springs.
Here are some of the holiday highlights this year:
Christmas at the Gallery at Kootenay Gallery : Runs to Dec 24th
Wayne King Exhibition at Touchstones Nelson
Christmas Pantomime at Capitol Theatre : Jack in the Beanstalk starting Nov 25
Key City Theatre: Performances by Symphony of the Kootenays (Yes, the Kootenays have their very own symphony orchestra here and they are fantastic!)
Kicking Horse Culture at the Golden Civic Centre : PLUS the Masque Parade in February
Christmas at Fort Steele Heritage Town: Including Clydesdale Sleigh Rides and visits with Santa
The Kootenays also have independent movie theatres with a wide range of programming, including live stream opera and theatre, Royal Theatre & Civic Theatre
Happy Holidays!
