In 2025, the City of Kamloops launched a pilot program allowing responsible liquor consumption in a designated area of Riverside Park. On June 24, 2025, Council adopted the amendment to Parks and Public Lands Bylaw No. 35-66. This pilot program has been extended for 2026 to gather further feedback from the community and where staff will report back to Council with updated findings and recommendations following the 2026 season.

This page is an opportunity for public feedback on the pilot program. Full details on the program can be viewed at Kamloops.ca/ResponsibleLiquor.

This initiative, modelled after successful programs in other Canadian municipalities, allows responsible liquor consumption in public spaces. The pilot will run daily from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm from May 15 to  October 1, 2026. Under the program, individuals aged 19 and older are permitted to bring and consume their own liquor within a clearly marked area around the Rotary Bandshell in Riverside Park. This location was selected due to its accessibility, visibility, and alignment with existing park activities, such as picnicking and the seasonal Music in the Park concert series.

As a pilot project, residents are invited to provide feedback throughout the pilot program. A summary of the pilot program and the feedback received will be presented to Council in Winter 2026.