The southern Canadian Rockies are still snowcapped after one of the deepest winters on record but in the Elk Valley, summer has officially arrived. Residents and passers through can look forward to a new summer event series this year, with the inaugural Summer Downtown Social set to bring Fernie’s historic Victoria Avenue to life. “We are blessed with the beautiful back-drop of the mountains and brick built buildings” says Sarah Parry, Manager of The Fernie Chamber of Commerce. “We have an ideal setting and are looking to create a vibrancy that draws people to the downtown and showcases Fernie”.

The event is set to run Sundays and Wednesdays from July 3rd until September 4th. On Sundays, attendees can expect to peruse boutique shops, enjoy street shopping, a Trunk Treasure sale, entertainment, events and activities for the whole family. “This initiative is inclusive and open to all,” says Parry. “Anyone wishing to participate in any way can join in. Business owners who currently do not open on a Sunday are encouraging others to make use of their frontage. Wednesday will see the Mountain Market at the Art Station; it’s all about people having a great time and enjoying Fernie. Support from business owners and The City of Fernie has been overwhelming; for a little invested effort I believe that we can grow the idea of Fernie being a great summer destination as well as a winter one.”

Sunday’s socials will compliment the already popular Mountain Market, held every Sunday in Fernie throughout summer and entering its 10th year of operation. The Fernie Mountain Market has emerged as an attraction in itself for those seeking organic and fresh produce, arts and crafts in a beautiful setting.

Wednesday’s socials are to include the Mountain Market’s new addition of a mid-week market in Fernie’s Station Square as well as live entertainment, music and refreshments provided by the Fernie Brewing Company. Bear Necessities Gift Store owner Sandra Harrison says, “I’m really excited about the market being added as a downtown event. So many people still miss seeing Fernie’s downtown and this is another initiative to show them what Fernie has to offer.”

Fernie’s Summer Downtown Socials will be held every Wednesday and Sunday from July 3rd to September 4th. Look out for the action on Sundays between 11am – 4pm and between 4pm and 8pm on Wednesdays.

For more information about the Summer Downtown Social, call the Fernie Chamber of Commerce at 250 423 6868 or email info@ferniechamber.com.