The first Regatta was held in Naramata in 1908 and was so enjoyable that three Regattas were held the next year. In addition, a spacious grandstand wharf and dance pavilion were constructed on the west beach of the Naramata Hotel. The first Regatta of 1909 was opened by Lieutenant-Governor Bulyea, of Alberta on June 17. Also attending were Premier McBride of BC and federal Minister of Finance and MLA for the Okanagan, Price Ellison. July 22 saw over 800 people attending with the guests of honour being the councils of Kelowna, Peachland and Penticton and their families. The August 26 Regatta hosted the councils of Coldstream, Vernon and Summerland. Everyone looked forward to the many events of a Naramata Regatta. The canoe races, men's and ladies' boat races and swimming events brought contenders from all over the Okanagan. One young participant who missed the ferry from Summerland decided that rather than miss a Regatta, he would swim to Naramata. He was late but missed very little. (From Don Salting's book 'Smile of Manitou'.)