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PENTICTON Your Next Canadian Snowbird Retreat In Penticton, you’ll find a friendly community and a climate that’s just as welcoming. The surrounding mountains shelter the valley from harsh winds, keeping temperatures mild. Our pleasant weather allows visitors to enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities throughout the winter season. Penticton offers a relaxed small-town feel with all the amenities you might expect of a larger metropolis. Our compact city is home to a regional hospital and several shopping centres, connected by an efficient and accessible public transit system. All of this tucked between the picturesque shores of two beautiful lakes, Okanagan and Skaha – a wonderful temporary home for the winter. Keeping Active Penticton does not experience much in the way of annual snowfall – however just a quick drive to Apex Mountain Resort, and you’ll find yourself in a winter wonderland. The resort features downhill skiing and even a picturesque skating loop through the forest. Adjacent to Apex is Nickel Plate Nordic Centre, home to seemingly endless cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Another option for skiing just over an hour away is Baldy Mountain Resort, with BC’s third highest-elevation ski area. Many days when there are clouds in the valley basin, taking a drive up the mountain will offer you that little boost of sunshine to make you smile. Another option on the outdoor activity menu is the outdoor skating rink located right downtown, open to the public at no cost and great fun for all ages. Some local golf courses stay open almost all year; it’s not always perfect weather for this game - but it’s great for bragging rights to your friends back home when you can hit the links in February. Walking is another great way to stay active, you will find many paths in and around the city that are flat and easy to navigate. If the temperature does become a bit too chilly for your outdoor stroll, move your walk indoors to the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC). Just four times around the loop and you’ll have covered over a kilometre. Penticton has many ways to keep active and busy throughout the winter months while keeping indoors. The Community Centre has a large leisure pool, lap pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam rooms, as well as a fitness room and recreational classes. The Seniors Drop-in Centre has a weekly calendar chock full of activities and social events. From bingo, pool, quilting, dancing and fitness classes to dinners and dances in the evening, all this makes it a great place to meet new friends and have some fun. Warm Up To Winter Penticton is rich with entertainment options as well; from art galleries to concerts to live theatre. Penticton Museum & Archives houses a permanent exhibit detailing the history of the city as well as rotating temporary displays. The Penticton Art Gallery features exhibits which change monthly, the Arts Council Gallery in the historic Leir House which showcases emerging and professional artists, and the downtown galleries, such as The Lloyd Gallery, are all worthy of a browse as well. The South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC) is home to the Penticton Vees hockey team and hosts world-renowned entertainment throughout the year. The Many Hats Theatre produces five shows each year and offers an affordable evening out with great entertainment. In March, Penticton is host to the Ignite the Arts Festival, celebrating the arts and culture of our community. Many of the wineries, distilleries and breweries are open for tastings and purchases in the winter months. Take advantage of this quieter time for a more intimate tasting and book a guided wine tour. Stay In Penticton This Winter Penticton offers a wealth of accommodation options to suit any budget, including full suites with kitchen and laundry. For more information on availability and rates, contact the accommodations directly. Learn more and plan your winter in Penticton www.visitpenticton.com/snowbirds Advertorial CSANews | WINTER 2023 | 23

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