It’s started snowing up in Aberdeen, so you know what time of the year it is — winter is drawing close, and even closer is everyone’s favorite holiday: Christmas! It feels like the perfect time to explore Vancouver and Kelowna, but hold up, there’s stuff to do here in Kamloops this Christmas!

From November 21st to 30th is the inaugural Kamloops Christmas Market, happening at Riverside Park, downtown Kamloops. The market is a festive family holiday event with local vendors and artisans, bringing together the best things about this city , from food trucks to great bands and small Kamloops businesses.

With gleaming lights at every corner and Santa’s cheery laughter, the market perfectly creates that classic European-style Christmas right here in Kamloops. At the market, kids are cozied up in their toques and jackets, running around as their parents chase after them. People are gathered around the fireplaces warming their hands and sipping hot drinks, while families pose by the giant Christmas tree, taking photos and making memories.

Oreo from In The Loops was able to document one of the market days, getting the chance to speak to Nicole Hall, a volunteer with Freeze Athletics, and Courtney Crall, a vendor from Earthen Moon. Interested in what the market looked like? Have a look!

With amazing music from local bands across Kamloops, the market really creates the perfect cozy winter vibe. The market runs till the 30th of November at Riverside Park and is definitely worth checking out!

Get handmade crafts from local artisans to support small and local businesses, grab a bite or sip from any of the food trucks, take some amazing pictures with Santa, and create some beautiful Christmas memories this year at the Kamloops Christmas Market.