Salmon Arm Roots and Bues Festival was shut down after one day. (submitted photo/Facebook)

By Pete McIntyre

poor air quality

Roots and Blues Festival shut down after one day, Vernon plaza closed

Aug 19, 2023 | 10:10 AM

The North Okanagan is experiencing some of the worst air quality of the summer today due to wildfire smoke, which is impacting scheduled events.

After holding one night of music, the Salmon Arm Folk Music Society has called an end to the 31st annual Roots and Blues Festival.

“The SAFMS follows a ‘safety first’ approach to ensure our patrons, volunteers and community health and safety is a priority,” David Gonella, executive director, said.

“Cancelling the 31st annual Roots and Blues was a difficult decision to make and one we did not take lightly.”

As communities in the north and south Shuswap face evacuation orders and alerts, and following direct communication with local fire officials and the RCMP, the society made the difficult decision Saturday morning.

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Despite the smoke and raining ash, the legendary Canadian band Blue Rodeo performed Friday night

“With our songs and good cheer, we just sent love to everybody,” Blue Rodeo guitarist and singer Greg Keeler said.

The society will be in contact with ticket holders with more information in the coming weeks.

Meantime, the 2900 Plaza in downtown Vernon has been cancelled for the day.

“Our stores are open today, but the plaza will be closed. Many of our businesses are assisting evacuees,” Peter Kaz, marketing and events director for the Downtown Vernon Association, told Vernon Matters.

The heat and smoke also caused closures of the plaza earlier this week.

Meantime, Silver Star announced a delayed opening of its bike park, cross-country trails, and hiking trails Saturday morning due to the smoke. The village remains open.

The resort added that if conditions didn’t improve by noon, they would remain closed for the day.