Local Blogs - Kelowna

Over 60,000 people pack downtown Kelowna every Canada Day. That's a LOT of red and white!

Canada Day 2025 in Kelowna promises to be the biggest celebration yet. You'll find amazing food, live music on multiple stages, and the best fireworks show in the Okanagan Valley region. Plus, most events happen right in downtown's best neighbourhoods.

Here's everything you need to know to make the most of July 1st in Kelowna.

Quick Kelowna Canada Day Checklist

• Festivities start at 11 a.m. (not 10 a.m.!)
• Bring cash for food vendors and markets
• Pack sunscreen or visit the FREE wellness station
• Find your fireworks viewing spot before 9 p.m.
• Use bikes or walk - Water Street closes to cars
• Check the weather and dress for the day

Airbnb isn't the only platform available to short-term rental hosts in Canada. With rising fees and more competition, many hosts are exploring alternatives that better suit their property and goals. Platforms like Vrbo and Homestay offer unique advantages—Vrbo typically draws group travellers looking for space, while Homestay attracts guests who want host interaction. 

Each platform comes with its own audience, pricing structure, and features that can lead to more consistent bookings and higher short-term rental profits. Let's break down the top Airbnb alternatives in Canada to help you find the right fit for your rental and take control of your hosting strategy.

Quick Host Tips: Top 5 Airbnb Alternatives

• Vrbo specializes in entire homes

Boat storage isn't just another expense you need to factor in—it's key to the long-term ownership experience. The right boat storage setup can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the boat. Depending on your location, a popular storage option may be all wrong—especially for your wallet.

If you're storing a boat on the coast of British Columbia, salt water and air could be your main concerns. If you're in the lake-rich Okanagan Valley region, weather protection might be the top priority. Storing a boat in a big city? Security could top the list.

The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to boat storage. Your best option depends on how often you use your boat, your budget, and where you live.

Quick Boat Storage Tips

• Check your boat

A cold ice cream cone hits different on a warm Kelowna day. Whether you're walking by the lake, checking out downtown shops, or need something sweet after visiting Kelowna’s world-class wineries, this Okanagan city has amazing ice cream spots waiting for you.

Need to know where to get the best ice cream in town? Here's your guide to the top spots for your next ice cream craving.

Tips for Your Kelowna Ice Cream Hunt

• Amore Mio makes real Italian gelato with local ingredients—try their outdoor seating
• Moo-Lix has the best salted caramel brownie and vegan options, too
• Parlour Ice Cream serves birthday cake flavour in fresh waffle cones
• La Diperie lets you customize with tons of dip flavours and toppings
• Marble Slab hand-churns its

Myra Canyon is one of the best places to hike near Kelowna, BC—but it’s so much more. The Myra Canyon Trail, also known as the Myra Canyon Trestles for its distinctive trestle bridges, follows the path of the historic Kettle Valley Railway.

Though trains haven’t run on this line since the late 1980s, its transformation into one of British Columbia’s most popular outdoor attractions has made it more popular than ever. 

With amazing views and cool sights, Myra Canyon feels like stepping back in time. Dive in and prepare for your epic adventure on the Myra Canyon Trail!

Tips for Your Myra Canyon Adventure

• Drive about 25 km southeast of Kelowna to reach Myra Canyon
• Get there early—parking spots at Myra and Ruth Stations fill up fast

If you're craving a glass of wine with a view that stops you in your tracks, head to Lake Country in the Okanagan Valley—just a quick drive from Kelowna and packed with charm. 

The town is home to cozy, family-run wineries, award-winning vintages, and rolling vineyards. Whether you're into crisp whites, easy-drinking reds, or that perfect summer rosé, you'll find a sip that hits just right. And you don’t need to live in Lake Country to enjoy its wineries (though you may want to afterward!).

It’s the kind of place where wine tasting feels like a mini vacation—and you’ll want to come back again and again.

Highlights of Lake Country Wineries

• Lake Country sits between hills and Okanagan Lake, creating unique terroir for stellar wines.
• If

If you’re thinking about hiking or biking the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, you’re in store for amazing views and tons of history. Before you head out, you need to know about trail conditions and what to bring. 

The 650-kilometre trail runs through some of British Columbia's most beautiful areas: from its easternmost point in Hope, through the stunning Okanagan Valley, and east all the way to Castlegar. Being ready makes the difference between a tough slog and an awesome adventure. 

Here's what you need to know about the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.

Key Tips For the Kettle Valley Rail Trail

• Always check trail conditions and weather before you go
• Bring water, snacks, and a first-aid kit
• Wear a helmet and sturdy shoes—the trail gets rough

Wondering where to swim, fish, or relax in the beautiful Okanagan Valley? With so many lakes to choose from around here, it can be tough to narrow down the list of must-see spots, especially if you have a particular activity in mind. 

After previewing the top Okanagan Valley lakes, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next day out or vacation.

Quick Okanagan Valley Lake Guide

• Okanagan Lake: Region’s biggest lake with tons to do (and home to Ogopogo, the lake monster!)
• Kalamalka Lake: Waters that change colour with beautiful kid-friendly beaches
• Skaha Lake: Sandy beaches with gentle slopes—perfect for families
• Sugar Lake: Hidden gem in the north for when you need to escape crowds
• Osoyoos Lake: Canada's warmest lake—like

The Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market is a lively gathering place where local farmers, artisans, and food vendors come together to showcase the best of the Okanagan Valley. From fresh, seasonal produce and handmade crafts to gourmet treats and global cuisine, the market offers something for everyone. Whether you visit the Main Market (April–October), Winter Market (November–March), or the downtown Satellite Market, each experience highlights the community’s dedication to local, sustainable living. With over 150 vendors, special events, and a welcoming atmosphere, the Kelowna Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Keys to Kelowna’s Farmers’ Market

• Check Market Dates and Hours: The Main Market is held on Wednesdays and

The lush vineyards of Kelowna offer guided wine tours that tantalize your tastebuds while expanding your wine knowledge. Visitors are captivated by knowledgeable guides who not only share the intricacies of winemaking but also recount historic events that paint a vivid picture of the region's viticultural history. Each tour offers something unique, whether it's a serene boat ride between tastings or a panoramic view from a helicopter. Let’s explore some of the fantastic guided wine tours in the Okanagan Valley, and discover which one of these explanations is right for you—and how they all enhance the experience of living in Kelowna. 

Keys to Kelowna’s Top Wine Tours

• Kelowna offers a variety of wine tours, ranging from half-day to full-day