A WEEKEND FOR LOVERS OF ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE
During the Columbia Basin Culture Tour, fascinating venues open their doors
July 21, 2025
(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Columbia Basin) – Artists, museums, art galleries, heritage sites and more will open their doors to the public—for free—during the Columbia Basin Culture Tour. 84 venues, located in communities and rural areas throughout the Columbia Basin, are featured in the 17th annual tour taking place on Saturday and Sunday, August 9 and 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“The Culture Tour offers a meaningful way to connect with the creative and cultural life of the Columbia Basin,” says Kallee Lins, Executive Director of the West Kootenay Regional Arts Council. “It’s a chance to meet artists where they work, explore heritage sites, and experience the diversity of talent in our region. There truly is something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of pottery, painting, heritage, or even want to try your hand at making something yourself.”
A project of the West Kootenay Regional Arts Council, the Columbia Basin Culture Tour is supported by Columbia Basin Trust, with additional support provided by Nelson and Kootenay Lake Tourism.
With exhibitions, artwork displays, creative-process demonstrations and performances, there is something new to experience at each venue. The tour is self-guided and suitable for all ages.
“Absolutely enriched my day,” shared a past participant. “Spoke to several artists and really loved every aspect of it.”
One past participant declared, “Beautiful artwork. Inspirational!” while expressed, “I love the uniqueness of the locations.
To learn more about the Culture Tour, discover the venues and view a map of locations, visit cbculturetour.com. Printed copies of the Columbia Basin Culture Tour directory are also available around the region in locations like art galleries, visitors’ centres, chambers of commerce, hotels and cafés.
To keep up to date with tour happenings, follow @wkartscouncil on Instagram or Facebook.
PHOTOS
Photos of each venue may be downloaded through the regional pages listed on cbculturetour.com. If you need higher-resolution images, please connect with the media contact listed below.
Valemount
Revelstoke
Nakusp
New Denver / Silverton / Slocan / Winlaw / Vallican
Castlegar / Robson
Rossland / Warfield / Trail / Salmo
Nelson
North Shore / Procter / Harrop / Balfour / Meadow Creek
Crawford Bay / Riondel / Gray Creek / Boswell
Creston
Cranbrook / Kimberley / Invermere / Golden
Fernie / Sparwood