Williams Lake was once a patchwork of ranches until the railway came through in 1919. To celebrate its connection to the rest of Canada, the stampede was established, and the town grew up around cowboys, lumber, and trains. Today, that trifecta of heritage can be found in every corner of the region, complemented by locally inspired art, cuisine, music, and some unique and entertaining attractions.

"Take a look at you. Lord have mercy!” Gordie Johnson exclaimed as he took the stage at Sun Peaks Resort on Canada Day weekend. “Canada, I know you can handle it."

Alex Cuba's mirrored aviators glint neon green as he tilts his face toward the sun.

The Afro-Cuban jazz groove master has just launched into his hit Beautiful Mistake and the crowd at the Salmon Arm ROOTSandBlues Festival is going wild.

The Huckleberry Festival at Castle Mountain Resort is the quintessential summer wrap-up party. With good times, great views, and huckleberries, it has become an annual tradition for many, including the Carmichaels, who are here for the 11th year in a row.