
Pritchard Park
A vibrant community hub in Asheville known for its Friday drum circle, and a family-friendly beach on Okanagan Lake in Kelowna.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the famous drum circle!

Pritchard Park
Best Time
Experience the famous drum circle!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant community hub in Asheville known for its Friday drum circle, and a family-friendly beach on Okanagan Lake in Kelowna.
"Pritchard Park offers a unique blend of energetic community gatherings and serene lakeside relaxation."

🥁 Drum Circle Etiquette
Bring your own drum or just come to vibe! Respect the space and enjoy the collective energy.
🪨 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach has a mix of sand and small rocks; water shoes make wading and swimming more comfortable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Friday Night Drum Circle
Pritchard Park
Feel the rhythm of Asheville at this iconic, free-spirited gathering. A true community celebration!
Family-Friendly Beach
Okanagan Lake shoreline
Shallow, calm waters and a sandy-rocky mix make this a safe haven for kids to splash and play.
Scenic Okanagan Lake Views
Pritchard Park shoreline
Enjoy picturesque vistas of Okanagan Mountain across the sparkling lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Drum Circle Vibe
Beach Day Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥁 Drum Circle Etiquette
Bring your own drum or just come to vibe! Respect the space and enjoy the collective energy.
🪨 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach has a mix of sand and small rocks; water shoes make wading and swimming more comfortable.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Park parking is limited; look for street parking in the nearby neighborhood.
☀️ Sunrise Spectacle
Catch a breathtaking sunrise over Okanagan Lake from the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥁 Drum Circle Etiquette
Bring your own drum or just come to vibe! Respect the space and enjoy the collective energy.
🪨 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach has a mix of sand and small rocks; water shoes make wading and swimming more comfortable.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Park parking is limited; look for street parking in the nearby neighborhood.
☀️ Sunrise Spectacle
Catch a breathtaking sunrise over Okanagan Lake from the park.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Several picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a casual meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pritchard Park is celebrated for its dual offerings: a vibrant community drum circle in Asheville and a family-friendly beach on Okanagan Lake in Kelowna. Visitors praise the safe, shallow waters and scenic views at the beach, while the drum circle is a unique, energetic cultural experience. Some note limited parking and the need for water shoes at the beach.
"This is a great beach for families as it is not as busy and definitely more kid friendly. Great for paddle boarding or floating. The beach is more rocky and water shoes are needed to make it more comfortable. Sometimes boats fly by causing wakes so it can get big waves if boaters don't slow down making it interesting for paddle boarding.
There is a pier too that you can jump off or lower your into your floaties."
Mandie Dee
"Very nice small beach. Mix of mostly sand and small rocks (rounded). Some picnic tables and clean public bathrooms 🚻. Suggest wearing water slippers due to lots of small rocks in the water. Very shallow, perfect for kids."
Carl Hamel
"Quality kept beach. Shallow until well past the 100 ft swimming dock. Newish facilities. Lots of kids, safe area."
orangecheesekj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pritchard Park is located in downtown Asheville, easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot if you're staying nearby. Parking can be limited, so consider street parking in the surrounding neighborhoods.
No, there are two distinct Pritchard Parks. One is in Asheville, NC, famous for its drum circle. The other is in West Kelowna, BC, known for its family-friendly beach on Okanagan Lake.
For the Friday night drum circle, arriving early is key. Consider walking or using ride-sharing services if you're in downtown Asheville, as parking can be challenging.
Yes, Asheville has a public bus system that serves the downtown area, making Pritchard Park accessible via public transit. Check local schedules for routes and times.
Absolutely! Asheville is a bike-friendly city, and Pritchard Park is a great destination to cycle to, especially if you're exploring downtown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pritchard Park is a public park and entry is free for everyone. You can enjoy the drum circle, beach, and green spaces without any admission cost.
Pritchard Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, like most public parks. However, the drum circle typically happens on Friday evenings, and specific event hours may vary.
The Friday night drum circle at Pritchard Park is a free, community event. No tickets are required; just show up and participate or observe.
Pritchard Park hosts various events, most notably the iconic Friday night drum circle. It also serves as a venue for other community gatherings and markets.
While Pritchard Park is a public space, specific areas might be available for reservation for larger private events. It's best to contact the City of Asheville Parks and Recreation department for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The drum circle is a vibrant, improvisational gathering where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to play drums, dance, and enjoy the collective energy. It's a spontaneous and joyful expression of community.
At the Kelowna Pritchard Park, you can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing on the sandy-rocky beach. There's also a pier for jumping and beautiful views of Okanagan Lake.
Yes, Pritchard Park is very family-friendly. The beach in Kelowna has shallow waters perfect for children, and the Asheville park offers open green spaces for play.
Yes, clean public restrooms are available at Pritchard Park, particularly at the Kelowna location, making it convenient for families and longer visits.
Facilities vary by location. Asheville's Pritchard Park is known for its open space and drum circle area. The Kelowna location offers sandy beaches, picnic tables, restrooms, and a dock.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Pritchard Park itself does not typically have restaurants within its grounds. However, the Asheville location is in the heart of downtown, surrounded by numerous dining options. The Kelowna location is near local eateries.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at Pritchard Park. There are picnic tables available, especially at the Kelowna location.
Downtown Asheville, where Pritchard Park is located, boasts a diverse culinary scene. You'll find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants offering various cuisines.
In Asheville, numerous convenience stores and cafes are within walking distance of Pritchard Park. The Kelowna location might have nearby shops depending on the season.
While not a regular occurrence, some community events or markets held at Pritchard Park might feature food trucks. It's best to check event schedules.
📸 📸 Photography
In Asheville, the Friday night drum circle offers dynamic, candid shots. The park's trees and general ambiance are also picturesque. In Kelowna, capture the lake views, sunrise, and family beach fun.
While known for sunrises over the lake in Kelowna, the western-facing aspect of Asheville's Pritchard Park might offer pleasant evening light, especially with the vibrant drum circle activity.
Drone usage in public parks often has restrictions. It's advisable to check with the local city ordinances for Asheville or Kelowna regarding drone operation in Pritchard Park.
For the drum circle, evenings are essential. For the beach and lake views in Kelowna, early mornings for sunrise or late afternoons offer beautiful light.
In Asheville, the drum circle itself is the main event. In Kelowna, the pier and the expansive view of Okanagan Lake are prime photo spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Asheville, NC, while not a beach, Pritchard Park provides ample open green space for kids to run around. The famous Friday night drum circle, though energetic, can also be a fascinating spectacle for children to observe, offering a unique cultural experience in a safe, public setting.
🎶 Drum Circle Enthusiasts
☀️ Beach & Water Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pritchard Park Drum Circle: A Community Phenomenon
Visitors often describe the experience as captivating and liberating. While some bring their own drums, many simply come to watch, dance, or soak in the energetic vibes. The drum circle is a powerful example of Asheville's free-spirited culture, offering a truly authentic and unforgettable experience that stands out from typical tourist attractions. It's a place where creativity flows freely and the community comes alive.
Pritchard Park Beach: A Family Oasis
The park is well-equipped with amenities such as clean public restrooms and picnic tables, enhancing the comfort for day-trippers. A notable feature is the pier, which serves as a popular spot for jumping into the lake or for simply enjoying the water. The shallow waters are also ideal for activities like paddleboarding and floating, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the lake.
Beyond the immediate beach area, Pritchard Park provides beautiful views of Okanagan Mountain across the lake, adding to its scenic appeal. While parking directly at the park can be limited, ample street parking is usually available in the surrounding neighborhood, ensuring accessibility for visitors.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit