It's not a badge of honour or courage, but a badge of thanks.
The Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce is rolling out a new Welcome Badge Program aimed at vendors or musicians who are part of an event in Armstrong or Spallumcheen.
"The Welcome Badge Program is a fun and easy way for local businesses to connect with visitors attending events in Armstrong and Spallumcheen," said the chamber. "Visitors wearing official event badges will be encouraged to explore our communities — and enjoy exclusive discounts and offers at participating businesses.
"Whether judging an agriculture event, vending at a festival, providing music or entertainment at a conference, event or workshop - you’re invited to enjoy exclusive discounts and special offers from local businesses in Armstrong and Spallumcheen. Thanks for visiting us. All you have to do is just show your official ID from the event, whether it's a name tag, lanyard, or business card."
The program kicks off this weekend with the annual Armstrong Metalfest weekend, where vendors and musicians can slip away from the IPE Fairgrounds, show their 'badge' at a participating business, and get a discount on select items.
Participating businesses and offers so far include:
• Armstrong Pharmacy: BOGO (Buy One Get One) 50 per cent off Option Products, or 15 per cent off all clothing;
• Armstrong Spallumcheen Visitor Centre: free Chapstick;
• The Clove (Armstrong): free Pico (salsa) and chips;
• Armstrong Regional Co-op (Armstrong location only): get a large iced coffee for 99 cents;
• Caravan Farm Theatre (Spallumcheen): free black currant lemonade and non-alcoholic drink when attending a Caravan event;
• Country Manor Kitchen (Armstrong): receive 15 per cent off your meal;
• Monashee Outdoors (Armstrong): 15 per cent off all drinkware;
• The Overlander Golf and Events Centre (Armstrong): buy three green fees, get the fourth free, OR, buy one putting course green fee, get the second half price;
• Village Dairy (Armstrong): 10 per cent off squeaky cheese curds;
• Waterside Beverage Co. (Enderby): free tasting for two with purchase.
"Thank you for supporting local," said the chamber. "This program is made possible by the businesses and volunteers of Armstrong and Spallumcheen. Thank you for shopping locally and joining us this summer."
Those who participate are asked to use the #ASWelcomeBadge to share their experience online.
The Welcome Badge Program will be in effect until the end of 2025, meaning it will be in place for the IPE and its vendors, carnival workers, judges, cowboys, cowgirls, rodeo clowns, and will be re-evaluated.
And there's a possibility more businesses will be added to the discount list.
