Penticton should expect crowds and traffic downtown this weekend

Photo: Casey Richardson

The outdoor rink in downtown Penticton.

The BC Hockey League is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary in Penticton this week with a series of events, and that will bring with it crowds and traffic congestion.

The city is warning residents to expect increased foot and vehicle traffic in the are around the outdoor rink where many of the events will be held, 107 Martin Street.

The biggest day for traffic will be Saturday, Jan. 21.

"Martin Street will be partially closed between Estabrook Avenue and Lakeshore Drive on Saturday between 1-7 p.m., which is anticipated to be the peak time of the event," reads a news release from the city Monday.

"Traffic control personnel will be on-site redirecting traffic and filtering local residents through the closure. All visitors to the area are advised to avoid using these roads, where possible, and to exercise caution in the area until all signs and barricades have been removed."

The events at the outdoor rink are free to the public to attend, with no ticket required. It will be a full day of competitions, activities and tournaments, kicking off at 9 a.m. and running through to 9:30 p.m.

Bleachers will be set up for spectators, along with a beverage garden and food trucks.

Community skate activities are also planned at the outdoor rink on Friday from 3-5 p.m., Saturday from 6:30-9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Find a full schedule of events here.