T
he summer sun strikes a chord with communities throughout Okanogan Country. As the heat rises, so does the number of festivals and fun times throughout the area. During the summer, nearly every city and town sets aside a day or weekend to celebrate its heritage and have a good time. Over almost any weekend, a visitor can find themself in the middle of a street dance, parade, fireworks display, historical reenactment, pie-eating contest or other big event. Looking for the sporting festivals? Well, we have those, too. From 3-on-3 basketball tournaments to fishing competitions to golf tournaments and more, visitors and locals can feed their competitive spirit. For some action-packed excitement on the water, check out hydroplane racing in Pateros or Oroville. Or how about Jet Ski riding, racing and freestyle on the Columbia River? As we celebrate our communities, we also like to celebrate our country. Celebrate the Fourth of July Okanoganstyle with one of many festivals on the Fourth or the following weekend.
See Summer Page 8
Roger Harnack/The Chronicle
Brad Forthun gives a thumbs up after an exhibition round in the whipped-cream eating contest in Molson.
Al Camp/The Chronicle
Melvino the Clown shows his juggling skills at the Culpepper and Meriweather Circus in Omak. The circus comes through the area every summer. www.OkanoganVacation.com
Dee Camp/The Chronicle
Parade-goers fight back against local fire departments as they hose off the crowd on a hot August day.
Okanogan Country Vacationland 2012-2013 – Page 7