World’s Invitational Gold Panning Championship returns to Taylor

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The 53rd World’s Invitational Gold Panning Championship takes place from August 1st to 3rd, 2025. (Jordan Prentice)

TAYLOR, B.C. — Less than 24 hours to go before the District of Taylor once again hosts the best gold panning competitors from around the world.

The World’s Invitational Gold Panning Championship takes place during the August long weekend, with a webpage on the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) promising “this spirited community tradition sets the stage for a weekend of fun.”

The championship will be divided into three competitions for speed, skill and fine gold panning. Classes including professional, non-professional, juvenile and adult will take place during the weekend.

There will also be food vendors and wagon rides alongside events in claim staking, metal detecting and bannock baking.

Festivities will kick off with a parade beginning behind the Taylor Community Hall at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, August 1st.

The procession will venture throughout the district, with the PRRD webpage saying the parade will feature “vibrant floats, local performers and community groups — all celebrating the town’s rich history, heritage and festive spirit.”

The competition has been a staple on Taylor’s event calendar since 1972.

The 53rd annual World’s Invitational Gold Panning Championship will take place at Peace Island Park in Taylor until Sunday, August 3rd. Entry to the event is free.

More details about the championship can be found by calling Taylor’s Community Services at 250-789-2828 or emailing Sherri Maycock at smaycock@districtoftaylor.com.