The Riverside Park Rotary Bandshell. (CFJC Today File Photo)

By Victor Kaisar

Drinking in the Park

New liquor pilot launches in Kamloops; no consumption during Canada Day or other community events

Jun 30, 2025 | 11:35 AM

KAMLOOPS — While the City of Kamloops has launched its new pilot program that allows people to consume alcohol in a section of Riverside Park, you won’t be able to – legally – crack a cold one in the park this Canada Day.

That’s because the city says the “responsible liquor consumption” pilot will be temporarily suspended during community events or if the area around the Riverside Park Rotary Bandshell is booked for a private event.

“Major events require a special event permit and enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of large crowds,” Andrew Smeaton, the City’s Business Operations and Special Event Supervisor, said. “In these cases, the permit takes precedence over the bylaw.”

The bylaw will also not be in effect during the Kamloops International Buskers Festival (July 24 to July 27) and during Ribfest (Aug. 8 to 10), though both Canada Day and Ribfest will feature beer gardens with alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

Area of Riverside Park where open liquor consumption would be permitted. (Image Credit: City of Kamloops)

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On all other days until Oct. 1, people over the age of 19 will be able to bring and consume their own liquor on the lawn near the Bandshell between the pickleball courts and the playground between 12:00 noon and 9:00 p.m.

The City said that location was chosen due to its accessibility, visibility, and alignment with existing park activities, such as picnicking and the seasonal Music in the Park concert series. They also note while moderate consumption is allowed, public intoxication is not.

“This pilot program reflects a thoughtful approach to modern urban park use,” Smeaton added. “By allowing responsible liquor consumption in a controlled setting, we are committed to educating the public on safe consumption practices while fostering a sense of shared community space.”

Smeaton said the City will monitor the area and gather feedback from a number of stakeholders – park users, event organizers, community partners, and enforcement personnel – as part of its efforts to gauge the effectiveness of the pilot.

“The feedback will be taken into consideration when the pilot program summary is presented to Council in fall 2025,” Smeaton said. “It will inform future Council direction regarding responsible consumption in City parks and public spaces.”

For more information on this pilot from the City of Kamloops, go here.