It had been six years since the skies of Penticton last hosted the legendary Snowbirds. That changed this BC Day as the elite Royal Canadian Air Force jet team gave beachgoers a thrilling surprise over Okanagan Lake Beach.
The last official Snowbirds air show in Penticton was back in August 2019. But on Monday afternoon, locals and tourists were treated to a surprise rehearsal that lasted nearly 10 minutes.
Just before 2:30 PM, the full nine-plane formation appeared over the city. The aircraft moved quickly across the sky in single file, roaring above the valley and the beach. The jets made several low passes, offering a preview of what’s to come during their official performance at the Penticton Peach Festival.
The crowd along the beach quickly turned their attention to the sky, where the pilots showed off their speed and control. As the aircraft slowed down, the team moved into a tight “Big Diamond” formation. This stunning visual lasted for a couple of minutes before they headed back toward Penticton Airport.
The jets did not use their famous colored smoke during the practice run. Nor did they perform their more advanced stunts. Still, the brief appearance excited many who were enjoying the BC Day holiday by the lake.
This unexpected show was not only a gift to those in the city early for the festival but also a teaser of the full event planned for later in the week.
The Snowbirds are scheduled to perform officially on Wednesday, August 6, at 6:00 PM. Their appearance will kick off the 2025 Penticton Peach Festival, which runs through Sunday, August 10. They will follow the Canadian Armed Forces SkyHawks parachute team, making the opening night a celebration of skill and precision in the sky.
This year’s festival will also include a performance by Men Without Hats, known for their 80s synth-pop hits. They are set to take the stage about three and a half hours after the Snowbirds fly.
Locals say the surprise flyover has already brought a buzz to the community. Many festival-goers expressed their excitement about the upcoming performances and the return of such a beloved air display team.
The Snowbirds are known across Canada for their tight formations and bold maneuvers. Their shows are not only about speed and tricks but also about teamwork, discipline, and honoring military aviation.
For many in Penticton, Monday’s show was a reminder of just how special these jets are. And for those visiting for the festival, it was an unforgettable start to what promises to be five days of fun and celebration.
As the Peach Festival prepares to welcome thousands of guests, the surprise air show has already set the tone. With the Snowbirds leading the charge, Penticton is ready for a high-flying festival week.
