Riot on the Road

Hosted by the Vernon Public Art Gallery, Riot on the Road is Vernon’s signature alternative arts festival and one of the Okanagan’s most unique end-of-summer events. Taking place on the road and alley beside the parkade, Riot transforms an everyday urban space into a high-energy celebration of creativity, music, and performance. Now entering its 18th year, Riot on the Road showcases emerging artists working across a wide range of artistic forms. Each year’s lineup is different, with past festivals featuring live music, visual art, video and film, spoken word, performance, dance, drag, installation art, wearable art, interactive experiences, and more, all unfolding throughout the evening in a dynamic, open-air setting. Designed to be informal, accessible, and community-driven, Riot on the Roof invites audiences to wander, discover, and engage with artists up close. It’s a rare chance to experience bold, experimental work in a relaxed and welcoming environment, right in the heart of downtown. Riot on the Road is an all-ages event and an affordable way to celebrate the creativity and diversity of Vernon’s growing arts and culture scene.