The Ryga Festival Society honors the legacy of George Ryga (1932–1987), one of Canada’s influential writers, by hosting an annual arts and culture festival in Summerland, BC. Known for The Ecstasy of Rita Joe, Canada’s most renowned English-language play, Ryga’s work spotlighted the impacts of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples and continues to inspire with its focus on social justice.
Your donation helps us celebrate the arts through inclusive performances, arts education, and opportunities for local talent to collaborate with national artists. Together, we can keep George Ryga’s spirit alive in our community!
Get your 2024 tax receipt by donating now to help support our 10th Anniversary!
An anonymous donor will match all donations up until Dec 31st, 2024.
The 2024 Ryga Arts Festival in Summerland was a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture, uniting a diverse group of artists and performers to honour George Ryga’s legacy through community and art. With incredible live performances and a unique blend of music, theatre, literature, and workshops, the festival was an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. Attendees immersed themselves in the thriving arts scene of the Okanagan, celebrating the immense talent that made the event truly special. As we look ahead to 2025, excitement is building for another year of showcasing a dynamic range of artists and creating unforgettable moments. Explore this year’s featured talent on the Artist page of the Ryga Arts Festival website and get inspired as we prepare for another fantastic celebration.
Are you an artist looking to be part of the 2025 Ryga Arts Festival? Don’t miss your chance to shine! Sign up now to join this incredible event and share your creativity with the community.
Stay tuned for more details!