We have chosen to focus on an arts and cultural route through the TOTA region for a few reasons. One of these reasons is that the TOTA region is rich in Indigenous culture. TOTA works with 33 Indigenous communities throughout the region, and this connects the route with opportunities for education and engagement of tourists with elements of these cultures. Another reason we have chosen to focus on this route is because of how it will support the Theatrical and Arts communities. At all times, but particularly during COVID-19 when the arts community is being hit very hard financially due to closures of venues and events ETC, they need the support of arts-lovers. We have chosen to focus on family-friendly venues and Theatre groups who perform in unique, outdoor venues, or who have developed online-delivery formats for continuing to present their art. To be able to market them and help support the income of revenue would certainly help to boost this community. Finally, this route expands the average tourist’s perception of tourism in BC by showing them the possibilities of arts and cultural activities in BC’s interior regions. Through this route, we also hope to strengthen connections between DMO’s in the TOTA region.
Through the SWOT analysis, we would like to promote a performing arts and cultures routes named “Sailing through the arts”. As all of the destinations In this route are theatres and events that are located or related to a river or a lake, visitors have chances to experience the different cultures and arts flows in each town in Thompson Okanagan region. visitors can enjoy many unique theatre plays on open air stages and local cultures with their family. From the extraordinary designed performances to the biggest First Nation cultural event, this route promises to take you and your family to a memorable and emotional arts and cultures adventure.
Recommended itinerary
Start from Kamloops–Shuswap–Amstrong–Vernon–Penticton
Day 1: Vancouver-Kamloops
Stay 1 night at Kamloops hotels in downtown
Day 2: Kamloops to Shuswap
Visit Kamloops Arts Council in the morning
Kamloops to Shuswap
Enjoy 6 stage performances at Shuswap Theatre
Stay 1 night at Shuswap hotels
Day 3: Shuswap to Vernon
Visit Caravan Farm Theatre in the morning
Amstrong to Vernon
Enjoy cowboy show and museum at Historic O’keefe Ranch in the evening
Stay 1 night at Vernon hotels
Day 4: Vernon to Penticton
Visit Betweens the lakes Pow Wow
Stay 1 night at Penticton/Kelowna hotels
Day 4: Back to Vancouver
