During the tourism season, communities in British Columbia heavily rely on visitor spending, but this period coincides with wildfire season, impacting various events in the B.C. Interior this summer. The tourism sector highlights the enduring economic and social repercussions of a smoke-filled summer on local areas.
The president of the Apple Race Series Society, Jonathan Arkle, expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the Triathlon National Championships in Kelowna on August 9 due to health concerns related to the thick smoke in the air. The decision to call off the Argus Apple triathlon was made in response to the poor air quality caused by wildfires.
Similarly, the Fat Dog 120 trail race scheduled to commence on August 7 in Manning Park was also canceled due to safety concerns arising from wildfires encroaching from Washington state. Registrants will receive a partial race credit refund, although the financial implications of the cancellation are still being assessed.
Tourism Kelowna President Cassandra Zerebeski noted that despite event cancellations and smoky conditions, tourists are still visiting, albeit cautiously. Some potential visitors are postponing their trips due to air quality worries. Approximately 10% of occupied hotel rooms are occupied by wildfire evacuees, prompting Tourism Kelowna to promote indoor activities like wine tasting and shopping to counteract the perception of instability caused by past wildfires.
While some events have been called off, such as a concert series in Vernon and a swim in Penticton, the Kamloops Rib Festival is proceeding as planned. The festival chefs aim to embrace the smoky atmosphere by infusing appetizing barbecue aromas into the air. However, the dragon boat races alongside the festival were canceled due to health concerns.
The Bush Babes Trail Running organization in the Okanagan has taken steps to mitigate wildfire-related risks by purchasing event cancellation insurance. In case of event cancellations, registrants will receive full refunds.