Image Credit: SUBMITTED / Sun Peaks Resort
December 31, 2020 - 7:30 AM
The traditional New Year’s Eve celebrations replete with fireworks displays have, for the most part, been cancelled in the Thompson-Okanagan region because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Only people staying at Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops have any chance of seeing a fireworks display on New Year's Eve.
“For everyone’s safety, we encourage you all to watch the show from the comfort of your home or accommodation,” states Sun Peak's website.
Staff said it’s just to add a bit of colour to the night for their guests and they don’t want any public gatherings or others to attend. The fireworks display will start at 8 p.m., Dec. 31, from a secret location.
Other ski hills and event planners have shut down all New Year’s Eve events to comply with provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry’s orders to not interact socially with anyone from outside your own household.
Big White Ski Resort near Kelowna will not be hosting its annual New Year's Eve events, including the midnight fireworks display. The resort will also not be allowing any social gatherings at any of its establishments, accommodation or outdoor public spaces.
"We want to remind everyone to stay in their bubble and help us have a safe New Year's Eve," senior vice president Michael J. Ballingall said in a media release.
Big White will also have a bolstered RCMP presence. Nine officers will be at the hill on New Year’s Eve to keep an eye on things.
There have been 111 COVID-19 cases associated with the mountain, with 15 new cases announced on Dec. 29. Ninety-four people have recovered.
READ MORE: Big White COVID-19 cluster grows to 111 cases
The list of cancellations include the New York New Year’s Eve celebrations in Kelowna. Events like a kids’ snow zone, food trucks and a 9 p.m. fireworks display are highlighted on its website, but not until Dec. 31, 2021.
That doesn’t mean celebrations can’t happen. Numerous restaurants are offering New Year’s Eve dinners, there are a number of online activities and lists of things to do at home.
You can check out this ToDoCanada website for things to do in Kelowna, which includes online and at home events no matter where you live.
Eventbrite does list some events by community, as does All Events in Penticton, Vernon and Kamloops.
Most of those sites promote a “2021 New Year’s Community Celebration” by encouraging everyone to stand on their doorsteps banging pots, ringing bells and honking horns at midnight.
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News from © iNFOnews, 2020