As the leaves continue their graceful descent, and the chill in the air becomes more pronounced, there's a unique charm that sweeps over Kamloops in November. Fall is in full swing, and the promise of the upcoming holidays lingers in the air. It's a time when the city comes alive with a different kind of vibrancy, offering a wealth of experiences for those who are ready to embrace the cozy and enchanting side of Kamloops, and to stock up on all the essential holiday gifts.
From outdoor adventures to indulgent culinary delights and artisan markets, there's no shortage of things to do in our picturesque city during the crisp days of November.
For the outdoor lovers: Kamloops hiking trails
Embrace the last golden days of fall before winter takes over. Wander through Kamloops’ top trails, where autumn's vibrant colours still linger. Whether you're catching the falling autumn leaves or soaking in crisp, cold air, now is the time to experience the beauty of the season. Be sure to check the forecast in advance and layer up to stay cozy as the temperatures drop.
For hoodoo views: the Cinnamon Ridge Hoodoo Trail
Explore the rugged beauty of the Cinnamon Ridge Hoodoos, where time has sculpted the landscape into an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Formed from an ancient volcanic eruption over 50 million years ago, these striking formations have a distinctive cinnamon hue, thanks to the iron-rich volcanic rock.
The Cinnamon Ridge Trail winds through this dramatic terrain, guiding adventurers into narrow canyons carved by an old creek bed. Though the trail is challenging—featuring steep climbs, loose gravel, and rocky stream beds—the payoff is unforgettable. It's an opportunity to explore Kamloops' extraordinary geological wonders up close and discover what makes our region truly unique.
Want to see more hoodoos? Explore more local trails where you can spot these ancient formations.
For fall foliage: Isobel Lake Trail
Soak in the autumn charm along the Isobel Lake Trail, a family-friendly path that winds through the forest and follows the lakeshore. This accessible trail is a great place to bring along the kids for a relaxing stroll that includes plenty of benches to pause and admire the scenery. Plus, there are picnic tables, a large covered shelter, and accessible outhouse facilities for added convenience. It's a wonderful spot for an outing that the whole family will love!
Local tip: Isobel Lake also has a public fishing dock, perfect for casting into the peaceful waters while surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. The lake is stocked with Rainbow Trout, so you'll have a better chance of reeling in a catch!
Looking for more places to explore this fall? Discover more trails and parks bursting with autumn colours around town.
For the brunch enthusiasts: Taste Around Brunch
Craving a mimosa cheers? Head out and enjoy brunch at one of Kamloops' top 6 brunch spots. One thing’s for sure, there’s no shortage of delicious bites to be found around town.
Local tip: From November 1st to 10th, 2024 Kamloops will be showcasing Taste Around Brunch, with special menus at participating restaurants. Stay tuned for more details on these exclusive brunch specials!
For seasonal sips: craft beer & wine tasting
Craft beer feature: Kamloops' Room to Roam White IPA
Introducing Kamloops' first locally-inspired beer: Room to Roam White IPA. Crafted in partnership with Red Collar Brewing and Tourism Kamloops, this White IPA delivers a crisp, refreshing taste with zesty citrus notes.
Stop by Red Collar Brewing in downtown Kamloops to enjoy this seasonal brew or grab a can to go from select locations and savour the season wherever you roam.
For more local sips, dive into Kamloops' craft brewery scene with stops at Bright Eye Brewing, The Noble Pig, Alchemy Brewing, and Iron Road Brewing. Even better, plan your own self-guided sips tour to explore them all!
Thompson Valley Wine Tasting
With lighter crowds and more time to savour the sips, the chilly season is ideal for wine tasting. Both Monte Creek Winery and Privato Vineyard & Winery have winter hours and tasting room staff ready to welcome visitors with a smile. You might even get some insider updates on harvest! Love the local sips? Join their wine club to enjoy Thompson Valley wines year-round—or give the gift of vino this holiday season.
This month, each winery is also hosting festive events, including candlelight concerts and artisan markets. Visit their websites for more details on upcoming events!
Monte Creek Winery Hours
Open daily 11AM - 5PM
Privato Vineyard & Winery Hours
November 16 - December 22, 2024 | 10AM - 4PM
*Closed October 28 - November 16
A Season of Stories: November Arts & Culture
For the fairy-tale fan: Beauty and the Beast by Western Canada Theatre
Step into a world of enchantment with a tale as old as time. Western Canada Theatre proudly presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, where Belle, the Beast, and all your favourite characters come to life in a spellbinding musical. This captivating performance will have you humming along long after the curtain falls. Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to purchase your ticket to be their guest for an unforgettable fairy-tale evening.
November 21st - December 8th, 2024
*no performances on Mondays
Sagebrush Theatre
Evenings 7:30pm | Weekend Matinees 2:00pm | Wednesday Tea Matinee 11:00am
For the curious creative: Kamloops Art Gallery
Explore the thriving arts and culture scene in Kamloops. At the Kamloops Art Gallery, you'll find rotating exhibits throughout the year, offering a constant source of fresh inspiration. The current exhibits on display include:
Every day is a day at the races when you’re mentally and physically ill by local resident Adrian Romeo
Available Sept 28 - Dec 28, 2024Stories that animate us, works by multiple artists
Available Oct 4 - Dec 28th, 2024
Don't forget to stop by the Gallery Store for a unique keepsake or the perfect gift for the art lover in your life.
Kamloops Art Gallery's hours of operation
Tuesday to Saturday, 10AM - 5PM
Thursdays, 10AM - 8PM *Free Admission on Thursdays
For the culture buff: Kamloops Museum & Archives
Visit the Kamloops Museum & Archives (KMA) to explore their latest exhibit, Common Thread, which traces the fascinating journey of wool from nature to finished artifacts. Located on the second floor, this exhibit highlights the cultural, historical, and community connections woven into the process of wool production.
On the third floor, explore the permanent exhibition riverpeoplenationstatepeople, where the KMA continues to evolve its approach to sharing history with more transparency, inclusivity, and critical thinking. Please note that parts of this exhibit are currently being updated in collaboration with Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc as they integrate new research and knowledge.
Before leaving, explore the Children’s Museum on the first floor, offering hands-on activities for kids of all ages to engage with local history in a fun, interactive way.
Kamloops Museum hours of operation
Tuesday - Saturday, 9:30AM - 4:30PM
*Closed on Sunday & Monday
For family-friendly melodies: The Little Mermaid with the Kamloops Symphony
November 3rd, 2024 | 2PM & 4PM
Sagebrush Theatre
Join the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra for a magical, family-friendly concert featuring the beloved classic, The Little Mermaid. On November 3, 2024, at Sagebrush Theatre, this special performance is the perfect opportunity to introduce young audiences to the world of orchestral music while enjoying the timeless tale of a mermaid’s enchanting journey. Concerts include a 2PM performance as well as a relaxed performance at 4PM. Visit the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra website to purchase your tickets!
For the seasonal shoppers: November artisan markets
Whether you're looking for unique gifts, seasonal produce, or artisan creations, November's Christmas markets and craft fairs have something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of the best events for holiday shopping this month!
Royal Inland Hospital Craft-a-Fair
Nov 3rd, 2024 | 10AM - 4PM
Sandman Centre
Get ready to jingle all the way to the RIH Craft-a-Fair, brought to you by the Kamloops Craft Market. Browse an incredible selection of hand-crafted items, perfect for holiday gifting. Best of all, your shopping makes a difference as proceeds from the event contribute towards Royal Inland Hospital Equipment. Admission is just $2 per person. Mark your calendar for November 3rd and head down to the Sandman Centre for a day of festive shopping that gives back to the community!
K̓wséltkten Kristmas Artisan Market
November 10th, 2024 | 10AM - 5PM
Coast Hotel and Conference Centre
Hilltop and ABC Ballrooms
Get into the holiday spirit at the K̓wséltkten Kristmas Artisan Market in Kamloops, where holiday cheer and creativity collide. With over 85 local artisans and crafters bringing their finest creations to help you find that special gift! It's the season to be merry, and what better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by shopping for unique, handcrafted treasures? This market has something for everyone on your Nice List.
Admission is free, but Kwseltkten Kristmas will be graciously accepting non-perishable food items or monetary donations.
Sip & Shop Artisan Market
November 16 - 17th, 2024 | Sat 11AM - 5PM | Sun 11AM - 3PM
Monte Creek Winery
Gear up for a double dose of delight at the Sip and Shop Artisan Market at Monte Creek Winery this month! Whether you're a wine enthusiast eager to sample complimentary wine tastings in the Tasting Room or a keen shopper on the hunt for local treasures, this event offers a perfect blend of indulgence and discovery. With over 25 local vendors setting up shop in the charming Greenhouse, you'll find gems that are as exceptional as the wines themselves.
Gather your friends and family, and join them for a day that promises to be a memorable celebration of wine, shopping, and community. Cheers to that!
Christmas at the Courthouse
November 16 - 17th, 2024
Kamloops Courthouse Gallery
Get ready to unwrap the magic of the season at Christmas at the Courthouse! Every year, the Old Courthouse Gallery transforms into a winter wonderland of festive treasures, and this year is no exception. The Old Courthouse becomes a merry shopping haven, with the entire building decked out in holiday cheer. Local vendors come and fill the building with all your holiday gifting essentials, sure to make you a Holiday Hero.
Kamloops Winter Farmers' Market
November 4 - February 24, 2024 | Saturdays 10AM - 2PM
Mount Paul Community Food Centre
Need ingredients for that cozy new soup recipe? The chilly weather doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying fresh, local produce and connecting with our community of growers. This season, the Kamloops Indoor Winter Farmer’s Market has everything you need—from pumpkins and fresh fall produce to mouthwatering pastries! It’s the perfect place to indulge your comfort food fix or snag that one-of-a-kind holiday gift.
Starting November 4, 2024, the market will be open every Saturday from 10AM to 2PM at the Mount Paul Community Food Centre on the North Shore.
More Local Events in Kamloops
For the snow seekers: Ski Sun Peaks Opening Day
November 16th, 2024
Sun Peaks Resort
Skiers and boarders, get ready to celebrate — snow season has arrived! Sun Peaks kicks off the excitement with Opening Day on November 16th, 2024. Be among the first to hit the slopes and start the season in style! Join them for First Chair and Harry the Bear from 8:30AM to 10AM for high-fives and warm welcomes, then wrap up the day with a well-earned après-ski at Masa's Bar + Grill for Lift and a Lager from 3PM to 6PM. With events from dawn to dusk, it's time to hit the hill for fresh snow and celebrate an unforgettable season ahead.
For holiday creations: Wreath Workshop with Little Blue Barn Flowers
November 23rd & 24th | Sat 1:45PM & 3:30PM | Sun 12PM
Monte Creek Winery
Get into the holiday spirit at Monte Creek Winery's wreath-making workshop with Little Blue Barn Flowers! Using locally foraged evergreens and dried flowers, you'll have all the materials you need to create a stunning wreath for your door, plus expert guidance. And it gets even better—your ticket includes a glass of wine to sip on while you craft. With limited spots available per workshop, visit the Little Blue Barn website to secure your ticket and let the holiday crafting begin!
For the family outing: the Santa Claus Parade
November 24, 2024 | 4PM
Downtown Kamloops, see website for the parade route
Gather 'round, holiday enthusiasts! The heart of downtown Kamloops is about to erupt with the most joyful, spirited celebration of the year—the Santa Claus Parade! It's that time when the streets transform into magical colours and the air resonates with the infectious sounds of holiday cheer.
Don't miss the spectacular array of floats, each one a masterpiece of creativity. The anticipation builds as each float glides by, adorned with shimmering lights, smiling locals, and a storybook charm that'll warm your heart. But wait for it—Santa Claus himself graces the grand finale, perched upon the last float. So, mark your calendars, bundle up the kids in their coziest winter wear, and make your way to downtown Kamloops to partake in the festivities.
Discover Kamloops this season
November in Kamloops is like a buffet of experiences waiting to be devoured! Whether you're exploring autumn trails, shopping for artisan goodies fit for a holiday magazine, or nodding along to the classics at Beauty and the Beast —this month's got something for everyone. This November, plan a weekend road trip to Kamloops and discover the city's charm.
Want to explore more November events? Check out our events calendar to see other events happening around Kamloops this month.
Don't forget to keep us in the 'Loop with your incredible adventures this month. Snap those memorable moments and share your journey with us by tagging @tourismkamloops and using #ExploreKamloops