Elk Valley Pride Festival takes places this year between September 18-22nd, 2024. Once again, this event will be jam packed with activity throughout an extended weekend.
Whether this is your first time or you’re a return visitor to our town, we’d love for you to get the absolute most out of your time here in the Rocky Mountains.
Where is Fernie?
The rural mountain city of Fernie, BC is tucked in the Canadian Rockies towards the south eastern corner of British Columbia. Bordering Alberta, we are a three-hour drive from Calgary via Highway 3. Our nearest regional airport is Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) in Cranbrook which operates scheduled flights to Vancouver and Calgary.
Things to do in Fernie, BC
Fernie is surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and is bisected by the pristine Elk River. Visitors and locals renown Fernie for its wealth of options and its accessibility to outdoor adventure.
However, beyond the world class flyfishing, alpine hiking, biking, and rafting, you really don’t have to look far to also get immersed into its rich arts, culture, and heritage scene.
Old architechture flanks the streets as you walk around Fernie’s Historic Downtown 2nd Avenue. You’ll find quaint independently-run shops, restaurants to suit all tastes, museum and galleries, and street art casually scattered around this former coal mining town.
Elk Valley Pride Festival takes place at the tail end of the summer leading into the stunning fall season. The quieter crowds in town, and milder temperatures make this time a perfect window to visit the Rockies.
It’s always worthwhile to stop by the Fernie Visitor Info Centre when arriving to get a face-to-face lowdown on the new and best things to see and do during your time here. For some deeper insight in valley’s history and art scene, we also recommend you check out the latest seasonal issue of the Elk Valley & Fernie Culture Guide.
Where to Eat
Fernie has a diverse range of culinary options ranging from Korean, Himalayan, Sushi, European, Mexican, as well as traditional North American cuisine at places like the Pub at Park Place Lodge. You will find the majority of restaurants along Fernie’s Historic Downtown 2nd Avenue, as well as just off Highway 3.
A full dining guide can be picked up at the Fernie Visitor Info Centre, and there is also a great listing on Tourism Fernie.
Where to stay
There are plenty of options to stay in Fernie both in and around towns for varying budgets. Accommodation choices range from hotels suites, hostels, bed and breakfasts, and private condos to even camping and RV spots.
Again, you’ll find there is a great listing of accommodation options on Tourism Fernie.com. Wherever you stay, you’ll no doubt have a great view of the mountains and be in close proximately to the festivities of the of the Elk Valley Pride Festival.
#ElkValleyPrideFestival
We always love to see how everyone spends their time here in Elk Valley as we fill Fernie with colour and joy. Please share your experience here at Elk Valley Pride Festival by tagging us with #ElkValleyPrideFestival.