The Museum & Archives of Vernon (MAV) is thrilled to announce that their summer historic downtown mural tours are set to begin again on July 20, 2024.

Every Tuesday evening and Saturday morning until August 20, the museum will offer two alternating tours around different parts of downtown, led by their keen summer student reprising her role from last summer. Each tour invites visitors to step into the past and learn about how the city came to look, behave, and feel how it does today.

An incredible and unique opportunity, these tours display not only Vernon’s history but also the artistic talent of its citizens. Archives Manager Gwyneth Evans writes, “On their own, each mural is an artistic representation of Vernon’s history; together, they represent one of the largest displays of public art in Canada. 27 of the 28 downtown murals were completed by muralist Michelle Loughery, beginning in 1998 when she approached the Downtown Vernon Association (DVA) with the idea of a youth engagement and downtown revitalization initiative. Thus began a multi-year project by Loughery and her talented young crew, as well as collaborators from the DVA, local businesses, and not-for-profits. One such organization was the MAV.”

The fact that these murals are based on historic photographs from MAV’s archival collection underpins the historic background which makes Vernon’s murals so unique. Those who come along for the ride (on foot, of course) will hear the fascinating stories behind passionate local trailblazers, inspiring women who paved the way to modernity, cornerstone businesses and organizations, and much more.

The MAV invites one and all to this immersive summer experience. For more details and to book tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/downtown-mural-tours-tickets-945878988517.