BC events:
So, we found this resource for some British Columbia events through the first part of September. Just in case some of your plans have been upset.
Category: -Photography
A planetary parade is a celestial event where multiple planets appear close together in the night sky. On August 23, 2025, there will be a morning planetary parade featuring six planets—Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—visible before sunrise. The new moon also occurs on this date, providing a darker sky for better viewing.
When to Look
The best time to view the alignment is in the two hours before dawn. The exact time will depend on your specific location, so checking a stargazing app or website is recommended for the most accurate timing.
Where to Look
The planets will appear stretched across the eastern sky, following the ecliptic (the path the Sun, Moon, and planets appear to follow).
* Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter will be clustered low on the eastern horizon and are the brightest and easiest to spot. Venus and Jupiter will be particularly dazzling.
* Saturn and Neptune will be higher in the sky, toward the southeast. Saturn is visible to the naked eye, while Neptune will require binoculars or a telescope.
* Uranus will be in the southeastern sky, and similar to Neptune, you will likely need binoculars to see it.
For the best viewing experience, find a location with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon and minimal light pollution.
A Rare Alignment of Six Planets is Happening. You Should Not Miss This. This video from YouTube explains the rare planetary alignment and why you should try to view it.
Look Up
Local weather channel conditions permitting.
Historic Coldwater Hotel, Merritt BC
Corner of Quilchena and Voght
The hotel has seen generations of rural cowboys farmers and workers dine dance and socialize.
Coldwater Hotel
The historic Coldwater Hotel, a prominent landmark in downtown Merritt, British Columbia, has a rich and complex history. It has played a central role in the community since its establishment, experiencing periods of growth, decline, and adaptation.
History
The first Coldwater Hotel was built in 1908 by William McIntyre. It was a modest two-story, 12-room structure. However, with the booming economy driven by the local coal mines and ranching, a grander building was needed. The current, more lavish Coldwater Hotel was officially opened in May 1910.
Constructed for around $6,000, the three-story building was considered one of the finest “dollar-a-day” hotels in BC’s interior. It featured a large barroom, a ladies’ parlor, and initially, 30 guest rooms which were later expanded to 60. The hotel’s most distinctive feature is its conspicuous copper dome, which is a recognizable landmark throughout the city. Throughout its existence, the hotel has had numerous owners and has been a continuous gathering place for residents and travelers.
Cultural High Points
* Community Hub: Since its opening, the Coldwater Hotel has been a central meeting place for Merritt’s residents. It has served as a social and entertainment venue with its pub, restaurant, and banquet facilities.
* Architectural Landmark: The hotel’s architecture, particularly its copper dome, is a significant part of Merritt’s historical identity and is considered a heritage building.
* Cultural Preservation: The hotel’s interior and restaurant are lined with antique artifacts, bottles, and other items that reflect the area’s history, providing a unique “taste of historical flavour” for visitors.
* Tourist Attraction: The hotel attracts European and Australian tourists, who come to experience its historical atmosphere and continuous service, which has been ongoing for over a century.
Low Points
* Historical Scandals: The hotel’s history includes notable incidents, such as a report in the Merritt Herald in 1969 of a dead man found in one of the rooms by a chambermaid.
* Economic Fluctuations: The hotel, like the city of Merritt itself, faced ups and downs tied to the local economy, particularly during periods when industries like logging and mills hit “rock bottom.”
* COVID-19 Exposure: In more recent times, the hotel was listed by Interior Health as a public exposure site for COVID-19 in September 2020.
Future
The Coldwater Hotel’s future is centered on preservation and modernization. In 2020, new owners Carson Wang and Grace Jiang began significant renovations. Their plans included:
* Structural and Interior Upgrades: Bringing in engineers to assess the building’s integrity, installing new flooring in the pub and restaurant, and converting long-term rental spaces back into functional hotel rooms.
* Exterior Makeover: The owners sought community input for an exterior renovation, considering different types of siding to upgrade the building’s look while preserving its historical character.
The ongoing efforts to renovate and restore the hotel, with community collaboration, suggest a commitment to maintaining its status as a vital part of Merritt’s downtown core. The hotel’s long history and continued operation indicate a strong desire within the community for it to remain a cherished historical and social landmark.
The local historical Society, the sponsor of the Bailey House downtown information center has an interesting bit of artisan art and comfort on the desk of manager Angie.
Artisan work by a local, they are a conversation piece worthy of your and yours attention.
The soft material also works well as an accent to ones wrist and its soft support can relieve the stress of hand and wrist when writing the next letter, or card, to your friends or colleagues.
An artistian displays wares August 2025.
Just next door to 2202 Voght Street in Merritt, Saturdays from 9:00 to 1:30 p.m. there is a farmers market. In the curling parking lot. Preferred access off Merritt Avenue. There are recreational opportunities with the Nicola Valley aquatic Center. Within walking distance is also the Merritt A&W and block and a half away. There is a new Valley graze for artisan prepared meals.
Welcome to Merritt.
I’mTo photograph Jupiter and Saturn, you’ll need to work with a few key camera settings and pieces of equipment. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do to capture them, especially in the early morning.
A great opportunity for this kind of photography is happening on August 12, as Jupiter and Venus will be in a close alignment, known as a conjunction. They will appear as a single bright “double star” in the eastern sky just before sunrise. While Jupiter and Venus are the main event, Saturn will also be visible, though farther away.
Here are some general tips and settings to get you started:
* Equipment: A camera with manual controls (like a DSLR or mirrorless camera) and a sturdy tripod are essential. A telephoto lens (300-400mm or more) is highly recommended to get a decent size image of the planets.
* Camera Settings: Since the planets are very bright, you’ll need to use shorter exposure times.
* Shutter Speed: Start with a fast shutter speed, such as 1 second or less, to prevent the planets from turning into streaks due to Earth’s rotation. If you have a telescope with a clock drive (which tracks the movement of the stars), you can use longer exposures.
* Aperture: Try an aperture of around f/8.
* ISO: Use a moderate ISO setting, such as 3200, as a starting point. You can experiment with different ISOs to find the best balance between brightness and image noise.
* Focusing: Autofocus is not reliable for astrophotography. Turn it off and manually set your focus to infinity. Use your camera’s live view mode and zoom in on the planet to fine-tune the focus until it appears as small and sharp as possible.
* Technique: Use a 2-second timer or a remote shutter release to avoid shaking the camera when you press the button.
For a different approach, if you have a telescope, you can take a series of many short exposures, a technique known as “lucky imaging.” This involves using specialized software to stack the sharpest images and create a final, more detailed photo.
August 23rd dark sky…
Local owners
The 120-year-old newspaper has resorted back to local ownership after being sold by a conglomerate of local newspapers:
Record
Small publishing a valuable record.
Look Up
The August 8th full moon in Greece (which is actually on August 9th, 2025) is a truly special time, particularly for archaeological sites and museums. It’s an annual tradition that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and celestial beauty.
Here’s what makes it archaeologically significant and what to expect:
Archaeological Significance of the August Full Moon:
* Ancient Tradition and Mythology: The August full moon has deep roots in Greek mythology and ancient traditions. In antiquity, the month of August was known as “Metageitnion,” a time for festivals and celebrations, encouraging communal gatherings. The August moon was also closely associated with Selene, the Titan Goddess of the Moon, who was said to traverse the night sky in her silver chariot.
* Olympic Games Connection: Historically, the ancient Olympic Games, held in honor of Zeus at Ancient Olympia, began on the day of the August full moon, every four years. The fifty daughters of Selene were said to represent the fifty lunar months of the Olympiad, marking the beginning of these games.
* Unique Viewing Opportunity: The August full moon is often considered the brightest of the year, providing a stunning natural illumination for Greece’s ancient monuments. Seeing the brilliant white marble of the Acropolis glowing in the moonlight, or the moon hanging low over the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, is an unforgettable experience.
What to Expect During the August 8th (9th) Full Moon Week in Greece (2025):
The Greek Ministry of Culture annually organizes a series of events around the August full moon, offering a fantastic opportunity for locals and tourists alike:
* Free Admission to Archaeological Sites and Museums: This is the most significant aspect. For one night (specifically, Saturday, August 9th, 2025) and often extending for a few days around it (from August 8th to 13th in 2025), many archaeological sites, historic landmarks, and museums across Greece open their doors to the public for free after sunset, often until midnight. This tradition began in 1996.
* Cultural Events Under the Moonlight: Beyond free entry, many of these sites host special cultural events. These can include:
* Theatrical performances
* Music and dance shows
* Stargazing sessions
* Myth-telling
* Guided tours
* Exhibitions
* Film screenings
* Key Locations: Many iconic locations participate, including:
* The Acropolis Museum (Athens): Often has extended hours and special events like concerts.
* National Archaeological Museum (Athens): Offers extended hours with special exhibitions.
* Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion: A breathtaking site to visit under the full moon.
* Archaeological Site of Kerameikos (Athens)
* Archaeological sites in Macedonia: Such as Pella (capital of ancient Macedon) and ancient Stagira (Aristotle’s birthplace).
* Sites on various Greek islands: Including Gortyna in Crete, and museums and castles on islands like Kalymnos, Karpathos, Skyros, Zakynthos, Kythera, and Kefalonia.
* Magical Atmosphere: The combination of ancient ruins, the bright full moon, and cultural events creates a truly magical and memorable experience, allowing visitors to connect with Greece’s rich heritage in a unique setting.
It’s advisable to check the official website of the Greek Ministry of Culture closer to the date for the detailed program of events for 2025, as specific activities and participating sites can vary slightly each year.
Local in Merritt enjoying the week and end weather.
You should be getting out as well .
How much sun…
Spending time in the sunshine can have a variety of positive effects on your body and mind, but it’s important to do so in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of how sun exposure affects your brain and body, and what to consider for safe sun habits.
Sunshine and Your Brain: The Endorphin Connection
Research has shown a fascinating link between sun exposure and the release of endorphins. Endorphins are a class of neurotransmitters that act as natural painkillers and mood boosters, and they are responsible for feelings of well-being and pleasure. Studies, particularly in mice, have identified an organic pathway in the skin where UV radiation triggers the production and release of a specific type of endorphin called beta-endorphin.
This process has led scientists to suggest that the “feel-good” feeling many people get from sunbathing may be a result of this opioid-like effect. This can create a positive feedback loop, encouraging sun-seeking behavior, and in some cases, even leading to a form of addictive behavior in frequent tanners. The release of beta-endorphin is thought to be part of a “built-in reward system” that evolved to encourage us to get enough sun for essential vitamin D synthesis.
In addition to endorphins, sunlight exposure also stimulates the production of other crucial chemicals in the brain:
* Serotonin: Often called the “happy hormone,” serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, focus, and emotional stability. Lower levels of serotonin are associated with conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during the darker, winter months. Sunlight entering the eyes is thought to be the primary trigger for this effect.
* Dopamine: Another “feel-good” chemical, dopamine is also released in response to sunshine, contributing to feelings of pleasure and motivation.
The Benefits and Risks of Sunshine
Is it good for us?
Yes, in moderation, sun exposure is highly beneficial. Here’s why:
* Vitamin D Production: This is one of the most well-known benefits. Your body synthesizes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.
* Mood Enhancement: The release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine can elevate your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and combat symptoms of depression.
* Improved Sleep: Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, your body’s internal clock. Exposure to natural light during the day, especially in the morning, signals to your body that it’s time to be awake and helps you sleep better at night.
* Other Potential Benefits: Moderate sun exposure has also been linked to a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, and a reduced risk of certain autoimmune diseases.
However, the benefits of sun exposure must be weighed against the significant risks of overexposure. Excessive UV radiation can damage the skin, leading to:
* Skin Cancer: This is the most serious risk. Both UVA and UVB rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, increasing the risk of melanoma and other types of skin cancer.
* Premature Skin Aging (Photoaging): Too much sun can cause wrinkles, sun spots, and leathery skin.
* Sunburn: A painful and immediate sign of skin damage.
How much time should we spend in the sun?
The recommended amount of sun exposure is a delicate balance and varies based on several factors:
* Skin Type: People with lighter skin need less time in the sun to produce vitamin D and are more susceptible to sunburn. People with darker skin have more melanin, which offers some natural protection but means they need longer sun exposure to produce the same amount of vitamin D.
* Location and Time of Year: The intensity of UV rays is stronger in the summer, closer to the equator, and at higher altitudes.
* Time of Day: UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Most experts recommend 10 to 30 minutes of direct sun exposure per day on bare skin (like your arms, face, and hands) to get the benefits of vitamin D synthesis while minimizing the risk of skin damage. Short, non-burning exposures around midday are often considered the most efficient for vitamin D production.
It’s also important to follow these sun safety tips:
* Never let your skin burn.
* Seek shade during the peak sun hours.
* Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
* Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply it every two hours.
K
August in the South Central Interior of British Columbia is typically the height of summer, characterized by warm, dry weather and a vibrant atmosphere. Here’s a look at what you can expect, drawing on historical patterns and upcoming events:
Weather and Climate:
* Temperatures: August is generally one of the warmest months. While coastal BC experiences mild summers (around 20°C), the interior, including the South Central region, sees hotter summers with daily high temperatures often reaching 30°C or more. For example, normal daily highs in areas like Kamloops and Kelowna can be well into the high 20 degrees and low 30s.
* Precipitation: August tends to be a drier month, though the region can experience occasional thunderstorms. Historically, extreme wet and dry conditions in summer have increased over time.
* Sunshine: Expect plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
* Wildfire Risk: Due to the hot and dry conditions, wildfire risk is generally high in August in the South Central Interior. The region has experienced significant wildfire activity in previous years, leading to states of emergency, evacuation orders, and air quality advisories. It’s crucial to stay informed about current fire bans, restrictions, and any evacuation alerts or orders through official sources like Emergency Info BC.
What to Look Forward To (General Trends & Specific Events for 2025):
August is a popular time for tourism and local events in the South Central Interior. Here’s a general overview and some specific events planned for August 2025:
General Highlights:
* Outdoor Activities: With the warm weather, opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming in lakes, boating, and camping are abundant. Many communities are located near beautiful natural areas.
* Wineries and Agriculture: The Okanagan Valley, a significant part of the South Central Interior, is renowned for its wineries. August is an excellent time to visit vineyards, enjoy tastings, and explore local farmers’ markets with fresh produce.
* Community Events: Many towns host outdoor concerts, markets, and festivals throughout the month, taking advantage of the pleasant evenings.
Specific Events for August 2025 (based on available information):
Merritt Area:
* BC Day Long Weekend (August 1st – 4th, 2025): This long weekend kicks off August with various community celebrations.
* “What If” (formerly Burn in the Forest – July 31st – August 4th, 2025): This reimagined gathering of creativity and community will be taking place in the Merritt area.
* Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo (August 30th – 31st, 2025): This celebrated annual event honors the region’s rich ranching and rodeo heritage.
* Nicola Valley Fall Fair (August 31st, 2025): A cherished tradition celebrating agricultural heritage.
Kamloops Area:
* Kamloops International Cup (July 27th – August 3rd, 2025): Features English Premier League U21 teams in exhibition matches, youth camps, and coaching clinics.
* Electric Love Music Festival (August 7th – 10th, 2025) in Pritchard: A high-energy, grassroots music and art festival.
* Hot Nite in the City (August 8th – 9th, 2025): The 31st annual car show transforms downtown Kamloops with vintage and custom cars, live music, and vendors.
* Kamloops Daybreak Rotary Ribfest (August 8th – 10th, 2025): Western Canada’s largest rib festival, featuring award-winning ribs and entertainment. (Note: This is its final year).
* Blackwell Dairy Farm Farmers’ Market (August 10th & 24th, 2025): Experience farm life with local vendors and open-barn visits.
Okanagan Valley (Kelowna, Vernon, Penticton, Oliver areas):
* BC Day Long Weekend (August 1st – 4th, 2025): Expect various local events and celebrations throughout the Okanagan.
* Penticton Peach Festival (August 6th – 10th, 2025): A major annual festival in Penticton with a wide range of activities.
* Music on the Patio at Hester Creek (Oliver – May to October 2025): Enjoy live music on weekends.
* Yoga + Mimosas (Predator Ridge Resort – various dates in August 2025): A unique outdoor yoga experience.
* Silver Star Summer Music Series (SilverStar Mountain Resort – various dates in August 2025): Live music in a mountain setting.
* Ghost Tours of Vernon – August Long Weekend Tours (August 1st – 3rd, 2025): Explore the spooky side of Vernon.
* Vernon Farmers’ Market (various dates in August 2025): A great place to find local produce and crafts.
Important Considerations for August:
* Book Accommodations in Advance: August is peak tourist season, so hotels and campsites fill up quickly.
* Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe: With high temperatures, it’s essential to drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.
* Be Aware of Wildfire Conditions: Always check the BC Wildfire Service website and local news for current wildfire updates, fire bans, and air quality advisories. Be prepared for potential impacts on travel and outdoor plans.
Enjoy your August in the South Central Interior of British Columbia!
There are a number of car shows in the South Central interior.
Kevin Griffiths
percypaschal
The Proprietor Review 