The OK Corral Cabaret.

(CARLI BERRY / iNFOnews.ca)

A country nightclub that has been part of the cultural landscape of Kelowna for more than three decades announced today that it was going to close.

"Thank you family and friends for 36 years of fond memories at the Ok Corral Cabaret," reads an announcement that went up this afternoon.

"At this time we have decided to close the cabaret indefinitely. There have been countless life long relationships and friendships built at the Ok Corral Cabaret and memories that will last a lifetime... Stay safe. Stay Healthy. Stay Positive."

They announced the beer store will remain open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Corral recently tried to make a go of COVID-19 conditions, managing partner Andy Bowie told iNFOnews in a July 10 interview. He took out the dance floor, put in tables and benches and installed glass around booths.

“I’m passionate about this place and we have a lot on the line,” he said, at the time. “It’s going to be a challenge but we’re fighters. We’ve definitely faced challenges in the past."

Bowie said he feared if the club had to wait until Phase 4 of the province's reopening plan, it could permanently close down.

Interior Health said as long as they are following regulations, they are free to open.

Nightclubs are permitted to open, but if there is dancing or entertainment, it is considered an event and the facility is restricted to no more than 50 people under the Provincial Health Order.

Last week, however, a spike in COVID-19 cases amounted to some changes to the rules, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said. 

Under the new measures, all patrons in restaurants, bars and nightclubs will be required to be seated, alcohol self-service will not be available, which means any ordering from the bar, and dance floors will be closed.

Dr. Henry also emphasized that groups at restaurants should be limited to six, and patrons should not be pushing tables together or engaging in behaviour that puts staff at risk.

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