It may not be the high season for tourism, but winter in Kelowna has no shortage of activities and things to do. From hiking frosty trails to indulging in some ice wine, craft beer, and local eats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our list below of our top 11 things to do in Kelowna in winter!
1. Ice Skating at Stuart Park Ice Rink
This one can’t be missed! The Ice Rink is located downtown right next to the lake, offering great views across the water of the snowy mountains. The rink is open daily from 6 am – 11 pm in winter, and skating is always free. Skate rentals are also available on site from 11 am – 9 pm daily (cash only). Learn more
2. Winter Wine Tours
Wine tasting isn’t just a summer activity! Visiting wineries in the winter is a fun and cozy activity. It’s also the season for ice wine – learn about the process of making this sweet treat and try some of the amazing varieties that come out of the Okanagan. There are plenty of year-round wine tour companies if you would like to take a guided tour. Learn more
3. Hit Up the Ski Hills
Kelowna is close to a number of great ski resorts. Closest to town is Big White, known as the local favourite. If you want to travel a little further afield or try something different, there is also Silver Star Mountain near Vernon and Apex Mountain near Penticton.
4. Local, Seasonal Eats
Kelowna has an amazing food scene, with plenty of great restaurants all nestled closely in the downtown core. For a local, seasonal, farm-to-table experience, try Krafty Kitchen & Bar or Raudz.
5. Telemark Nordic Club
Nothing says winter quite like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing powder trails. Telemark Nordic Club is a popular destination for locals to get some fresh air and enjoy the winter scenery. Learn more
6. A Night at the Theatre
There are plenty of winter programs on at various theatres around the city. The Canadian School of Ballet is currently performing The Nutcracker at Kelowna Community Theatre, while the Kelowna Actors Studio is currently bringing the beloved classic Beauty and the Beast to life.
7. Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees is becoming an annual tradition, hosted by Mission Hill Estate Winery. It’s a fundraising event for BC Children’s Hospital and features beautifully decorated trees by members of the community. If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, this is the place! Learn more
8. CRAFT Beer Market
Kelowna has no shortage of craft breweries to enjoy if that’s to your tastes. CRAFT Beer Market is hosting Kelowna’s first holiday-themed pop-up bar on Bernard, open daily from December 4-29. Learn more
9. Learn about Hockey at the Heritage Museum
The Kelowna Heritage Museum is currently running an exhibition that celebrates Canada’s favourite sport. The exhibition runs from December 7 to February 29. Learn more
10. Winter Hikes and Trails
One of the best things about living in Kelowna is the abundance of beautiful nature, and it’s no less true in the winter. The Myra Canyon Trestles are a great place to go snowshoeing, offering stunning snowy vistas of the surrounding mountains. There are also plenty of frosty waterfall hikes to enjoy: try Crawford Falls in Kelowna or Hardy Falls in nearby Peachland.
11. Try Curling
The Kelowna Curling Club is currently offering a Sunday special: pay only $22 per person for 2 hours of curling, including rental gear, as well as a burger and side dish! It’s recommended to call to book ahead. Learn more
12. Kelowna Art Gallery
Finally, the Kelowna Art Gallery is always running interesting exhibitions. It’s a great way to escape the cold and spend an hour or two viewing beautiful Canadian art or learning from one of the many art classes and workshops they offer during the winter. View current exhibitions
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Featured photo by Pigoff PhotographY