Are you looking for some fun things to do in Kelowna, British Columbia during the winter season? This guide is for you!
Whether you’re just visiting Kelowna or live here, I’ve got you covered with this list of 35 exciting Kelowna winter activities and attractions that are sure to keep you busy all winter long.
From winter sports to bougie wine tastings, cultural art gallery visits to live theatre shows, this guide to the best things to do in Kelowna in winter has something for everyone.
By the way, if you’re visiting Kelowna soon you might also want to check out these posts:
- 31 Awesome Things to do in Kelowna
- The Best Wineries in Kelowna – Kelowna Winery Guide
- 7 Best Wineries for Lunch in Kelowna
- 6 wineries you need to visit in Oliver & Osoyoos
- Wineries of Lake Country – The perfect Kelowna day trip!
- 6 of the most instagrammable places in Kelowna
And be sure to follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. I share a lot of travel content on those that never make it to the blog!
Before we get started, let’s discuss something important – the weather in Kelowna in winter!
What to expect weather-wise in Kelowna during the winter
While the weather can be a bit unpredictable, you can expect an average high temperature of around 4-5°C (40-41°F) and an average low temperature of around -3°C (27°F).
It can get pretty cold and dry, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
Although this has traditionally been the case – this year it dropped to as low as -20°C for a few days so it is best to be prepared for anything!
Make sure you dress warmly and in layers to stay comfortable, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
And if you’re planning on heading outside of the city, be prepared for cold, wet, and icy conditions.
With a little bit of planning, you’ll have a great time in Kelowna no matter what the weather brings!
Now, onto the guide to the best things to do in Kelowna in winter!
Things to do in Kelowna in winter
1. Go wine tasting at one of the many local wineries
Kelowna is home to so many incredible wineries, and unlike in some regions (like Okanagan Falls for example) most wineries stay open for tastings during the winter months.
Winter is a great time to go wine tasting, and you’ll find the winery tasting rooms to be much less busy.
I have a whole guide to the best wineries in Kelowna so be sure to check it out.
A lot of wineries not only offer tastings, but tours as well.
You can learn all about the winemaking process and taste some amazing wines.
This is definitely one of my favourite things to do in Kelowna in winter!
2. Try a wine tour
Skip the hassle of designated drivers and navigating unfamiliar roads by booking a wine tour!
With the Kelowna or West Kelowna Afternoon Sightseeing Wine Tour, you’ll get to visit 4 of the top wineries in the area with a knowledgeable guide that will take you from one to the next.
With pick-up and drop-off service from your hotel or Airbnb, the Kelowna Sightseeing Wine Tour is a virtually stress-free way to enjoy the best of what Kelowna has to offer.
As an added bonus, you’ll also get a glimpse of local sights and learn about the area’s history thanks to your knowledgeable guide.
It’s no wonder this tour is the highest rated on Viator.
Check out the glowing reviews for yourself here!
3. Take a day trip to visit the wineries of Lake Country
While Kelowna is home to some amazing wineries, the smaller, more intimate wineries of Lake Country are not to be missed.
Just a 20-minute drive away, these wineries are perfect for a day trip from Kelowna.
They’re all located close to each other, making it easy to visit them all in one day.
Trust me, these wineries are some of my favorites and we I them every time we’re in the area.
Don’t believe me?
Check out my guide to the best wineries in Lake Country and see for yourself.
4. Go outdoor ice skating at Stuart Park or City Park
Skating is a classic winter activity that’s fun for the whole family.
Both Stuart Park and City Park have great outdoor skating rinks and an afternoon of skating on them is the perfect Kelowna winter activity.
Bundle up and hit the ice at one of these outdoor rinks and take in the beautiful surrounding views before enjoying a cup of hot cooca.
5. Hit the slopes at Big White Ski Resort
As if I could write a guide to the best things to do in Kelowna in winter without including Kelowna’s world famous ski resorts!
Big White Ski Resort is a must-visit for any winter sports enthusiast.
With plenty of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, you’re sure to have a blast on the slopes.
Big White is known for its powdery snow, which attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world.
Here you can enjoy 118 runs that are spread across 2,765 acres of skiable terrain, as well as a variety of other amenities such as accommodations, restaurants, and a ski school.
Big White is open from late November to early April and is great for skiiers and snowboarders of all levels.
6. Skiing or Snowboarding at Silverstar Mountain Resort
The second world famous ski resort near Kelowna is SilverStar Mountain Resort, and you definitely don’t want to miss it during your winter visit to Kelowna!
Silverstar has 120 runs spread across 3,282 acres, with a mix of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The resort also has a terrain park for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing.
They also have a variety of dining and shopping options, as well as rental equipment and lessons for those who need it.
7. Experience the best of Kelowna’s food and culture with a fun food tour
Now THIS is a great way to experience Kelowna’s vibrant culinary scene!
The Kelowna 3 Hour Walking Food Tour is a 5 star rated tour that will having you tasting some of Kelowna’s best eats & drinks, while also taking in the incredible sights.
On the 3 Hour Walking Food Tour you’ll get to learn all the cool stuff about Kelowna – the stories, the people, and especially the amazing food that’s put the city on the map.
You’ll start at the Laurel Packinghouse and then hit up the cultural district and lakeshore, taking in all the sights along the way.
Along the way there will be plenty of photo ops for the beautiful buildings, art, statues, gardens, waterfalls, Okanagan Lake, and more.
And don’t worry, they’ll make sure you stay fueled up with 7-8 tasty stops at local businesses, where you can choose from alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
The 3 Hour Walking Food Tour of Kelowna truly is the best way to dive into Kelowna’s culture and cuisine, so don’t miss out!
8. Try your hand at cross-country skiing at Telemark Nordic Club
Cross-country skiing is a great way to explore Kelowna’s beautiful winter landscape, and there is no better place to do it than the Telemark Nordic Club!
The Telemark Nordic Club has over 50 km of professionally groomed cross country ski trails that will take your cross-country expedition to a whole new level.
They also have rentals available if you don’t have your own equipment.
9. Go snowshoeing in the Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park
Snowshoeing in the Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park is a fun and unique way to experience the outdoors in the winter.
The park has several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to more challenging.
The park itself covers an area of approximately 25,000 hectares, and snowshoeing is a great way to explore the park in the winter months, when the trails are covered in snow.
Here you will find a number of marked trails that are suitable for snowshoeing, ranging from easy to more challenging routes.
The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and provide the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and rabbits.
10. Try ice fishing at Okanagan Lake
Did you know that Okanagan Lake is a popular destination for ice fishing?
Well it is!
Okanagan Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and burbot.
Head to Okanagan Lake for a chance to try your hand at ice fishing.
This peaceful and relaxing activity is a great way to spend a winter afternoon in Kelowna.
Just a heads up that in order to go ice fishing on Okanagan Lake, you will need to obtain a fishing license in advance.
11. Go snow tubing at The Adventure Park
When I was a kid I absolutely loved snow tubing, and even as an adult it’s definitely one of the funnest things to do in Kelowna in winter.
Snow tubing at The Adventure Park is a thrilling activity that the whole family can enjoy.
Zip down the hill on a giant inner tube and see who can make it the farthest (and quickest).
12. Go on an epic winter hike at Myra Canyon
If you’re looking for a thrilling and beautiful winter activity, look no further than hiking in Myra Canyon.
Located just a short 39 minute drive from the heart of Kelowna, this gorgeous spot is home to a network of trails that offer something for everyone.
From easy routes to more challenging ones, you’ll get to explore a stunning landscape of forests, meadows, and canyon walls.
You’ll get to hike along trestle trails, and even through caves way up high in the mountains.
And let’s not forget the wildlife!
You might spot some birds, deer, or rabbits as you make your way through the trails.
Keep in mind that the trails can get slippery and icy during the winter, so take your time and use caution.
And let someone know your plans before you set out on your hike.
Trust me, this is one winter adventure you don’t want to miss!
13. Visit the Kelowna Art Gallery
If you love art galleries, this is for you!
Visiting The Kelowna Art Gallery is a great things to do in winter in Kelowna when the weather is especially cold.
The art gallery features rotating exhibitions of local and international artists for you to enjoy.
14. Catch a flick at the Landmark Cinemas
If you’re looking to catch a break from the cold, why not watch a movie at the Landmark Cinemas in downtown Kelowna?
With a variety of new releases and comfortable seats, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the show.
Don’t forget to grab some popcorn before heading in, after all, what’s a movie without buttery theatre popcorn?
15. Enjoy a live performance at the Kelowna Community Theatre or the Kelowna Actors Studio
If you love a good live show, both the Kelowna Community Theatre and Kelowna Actors Studio host a variety of live performances throughout the winter season.
From plays to concerts to dance performances, there’s sure to be something that interests you.
16. Check out the Christmas lights at Mission Hill Family Estate Winery
The Mission Hill Family Estate Winery puts on a beautiful display of Christmas lights during the holiday season, and if you’re visiting Kelowna in winter you won’t want to miss it!
Take a stroll through the lights and enjoy a glass of wine at the winery’s restaurant.
You can also do a wine tasting while you’re here.
Mission Hill is easily one of the most beautiful wineries in Kelowna, and is definitely something you don’t want to miss seeing in winter.
17. Cheer on the boys of the Kelowna Rockets junior hockey at the Capital News Centre
If you’re a hockey lover, why not enjoy a game and cheer on the Kelowna Rockets junior hockey team at the Capital News Centre?
With a fast-paced and exciting game, you’ll be entertained from start to finish.
You can check out the schedule of upcoming games for the Kelowna Rockets here.
18. Enjoy a beer tasting at BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery
It’s no surprise that BNA Brewery was voted #1 in Kelowna – it’s a total must-visit.
Swing by their tasting room and choose from a flight of 9 locally made beers, or grab a bite and a few pints at their restaurant.
And if the weather isn’t great or you just want to switch things up, they’ve got ten pin bowling on site.
Trust me, this is a winter afternoon well spent in Kelowna.
Want to explore more of the city’s amazing cideries, breweries, and distilleries?
Check out Tourism Kelowna’s website for a full list.
If you’re a beer lover this is definitely one thing you absolutely HAVE to do on this list of things to do in Kelowna in winter.
19. Go for a spirit tasting at Okanagan Spirits Kelowna
Address: 267 Bernard Ave
Prefer something a little stronger than wine or beer?
Okanagan Spirits has you covered!
Located right in the heart of downtown Kelowna and just a short walk from the harbour, Okanagan Spirits has a great spirit lineup that includes Whiskies, Vodka, Gin, Liqueurs, Brandies and even Absinthe.
Stop the shop to try out some of their spirits and go home with a bottle or two.. you won’t regret it.
20. Experience the Best of Live Music in Kelowna at the Community Theatre or Prospera Place
Kelowna Community Theatre and Prospera Place both host a variety of concerts throughout the winter season.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable night of live music, the Kelowna Community Theatre and Prospera Place are both top picks.
Both host a variety of concerts throughout the winter season, and make for a great indoor Kelowna winter activity.
The Community Theatre, located downtown, is a cozy 700-seat venue known for its amazing acoustics.
You’ll feel like you’re right there with your favorite artists!
Prospera Place, on the other hand, is a multi-purpose arena that can hold up to 6,800 people.
They’ve got it all – concerts, trade shows, conventions, and even hockey games.
No matter which venue you choose, you’ll want to snag your tickets in advance – these shows can sell out fast!
21. Check out the selection of books at the Okanagan Regional Library
If you’re looking for a place to hang out, get some reading done, or learn something new, the Okanagan Regional Library has you covered!
Located in downtown Kelowna, it’s super easy to get to and totally free to visit.
Inside, you’ll find a ton of books, magazines, and other print materials, as well as access to digital media and online resources.
Plus, there are all sorts of events and workshops for every age!
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, a fun way to spend a cold winter day, or just want to expand your horizons, the Okanagan Regional Library is the place to be.
They also have an on-site cafe so you can grab a snack and coffee during your visit.
22. Shop locally made goods at the Kelowna Farmers and Crafters Market
The Kelowna Farmers and Crafters Market is held on Saturdays at the Parkinson Rec Centre from December to April and is a great place to find locally made goods.
Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and home baked goods.
There’s something for everyone at the market and it’s a great way to spend a winter day in Kelowna.
23. Go for a winter ride on a fat tire bike!
Here’s a fun winter activity to try out – fat biking!
Big White Ski Resort has designated fat biking trails that allow you to explore the beautiful winter terrain while biking in the snow.
Get ready to pedal your way around the beautiful ‘Trapping Meadows’ nordic trail, which winds around the mountain and offers plenty of designated trails to explore.
Rentals are available on site and cost about $40 for 2 hours or $75 for 4 hours.
This is the perfect way to take in the stunning scenery and get some exercise while you’re at it.
Don’t miss out on this unique adventure in the great outdoors!
24. Get in a laugh with a comedy show
Dakoda’s Comedy Lounge hosts live stand-up comedy shows throughout the winter season.
Enjoy a night out and laugh it up with some of the best comedians in the region.
Many of the comedians who appear on Dakoda’s stage have performed on Just For Laughs, CBC, and The Comedy Network.
25. Catch a live performance at the Rotary Centre for the Arts
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy an evening show indoors, and Kelowna has some great venues!
The Rotary Centre for the Arts is a vibrant arts center that hosts a variety of live performances, including music, dance, and theater.
You can check out their calendar to see what’s coming up, as well as purchase tickets on their website.
26. Enjoy a cooking class at The Okanagan Table
The Okanagan Table offers a variety of cooking classes for all levels of experience.
Learn to cook something new and impress your friends and family back home.
Here you’ll all sorts of unique classes like an Indian Cuisine class, Holiday Entertaining class, Essentials of Fish & Seafood, and so many others.
You can check out the classes available on their website here.
27. Taking a scenic drive through the Okanagan Valley to see the winter landscape
The Okanagan Valley is home to many beautiful scenic drives, and the winter season is a great time to take one.
The landscape takes on a unique beauty when covered in snow, and you might even spot some wildlife.
if you’re looking for some awesome winter drives around Kelowna, here are some options to consider:
- Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park is seriously stunning in the winter. The rolling hills and forests are so picturesque, and you get some seriously gorgeous views of the Okanagan Valley.
- Okanagan Lake is always a good choice for a winter drive. There are a bunch of roads that follow the shoreline and take you through small towns and past wineries. So pretty!
- If you want to head up into the mountains, Big White Ski Resort is the way to go. The views from up there are seriously breathtaking, and it’s a super popular spot for winter sports enthusiasts.
- The Kettle Valley Railway is an old railway line that’s been converted into a recreational trail, and the drive along it is just breathtaking. You’ll get some seriously amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Finally, the Westside Wine Trail is a must-do. It takes you through the west side of the Okanagan Valley, where you can visit tons of wineries and just soak in all the beauty of the region.
28. Try a winter hike through the Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park or Knox Mountain Park
The Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park and Knox Mountain Park are both great places to go for a winter hike.
The trails at both are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the valley.
Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park offers a variety of trails ranging in difficulty, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Knox Mountain Park offers a variety of trails, as well as picnic areas and lookout points with beautiful views of the Okanagan Valley.
Regardless of which one you pick they are both fantastic spots for a winter hike in Kelowna!
A winter hike is truly one of the best things to do in Kelowna in winter.
29. Go indoor ice skating at the Memorial Arena
If you prefer indoor to outdoor skating the Memorial Arena is a great place to go ice skating in Kelowna.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, you’re sure to have a great time on the ice.
The Memorial Arena has public skating sessions throughout the week at various times.
Just check the schedule online or give them a call to find out when you can skate.
If you don’t have your own skates, no worries!
They have a skate rental booth where you can rent a pair.
30. Take a self-guided art tour of the downtown Kelowna galleries and studios
The downtown Kelowna area is home to many galleries and studios featuring the work of local artists.
Take a self-guided art tour and see what catches your eye.
Here are some awesome art galleries to check out in downtown Kelowna:
- Art & Soul Gallery has a ton of amazing artwork from local and regional artists. You’ll find everything from paintings and sculptures to photographs.
- Kelowna Art Gallery is all about contemporary art from the Okanagan Valley and beyond. Definitely worth a visit.
- Canada House Gallery has a ton of amazing artwork from Canadian artists. There’s everything from paintings and sculptures to prints.
- The Gallery at Kelowna Artisan Market is located in the Cultural District of downtown Kelowna, and it has a ton of amazing artwork from local artists. You’ll find everything from paintings and photography to other media.
- Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art is also dedicated to exhibiting and promoting contemporary art from the Okanagan Valley and beyond. Definitely worth a visit.
31. Visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum
At the Okanagan Heritage Museum you’ll discover the natural and human history of Kelowna.
Admission is by donation (although $5 is recommended) so it’s a super affordable activity.
At the Okanagan Heritage Museum you’ll get to learn how the Okanagan valley was formed, and why it supports tremendous biodiversity.
Step into the world of the syilx/Okanagan people, and gain insights into their close connection to the land.
Learn about the arrival of traders and settlers, and peer into the windows of an original “Chinatown” shop.
32. Learn about military history at the Okanagan Military Museum
Another great cold winter day activity to do in Kelowna is a visit to the Okanagan Military Museum!
Here you’ll get to explore artifacts from all kinds of wars, like the South African War, World War I and II, the Korean War, the Cold War, and more recent military operations.
The Okanagan Military Museum is all about preserving and promoting Okanagan military heritage, and it’s super interesting to see how locals were involved in all these big events around the world.
33. Hit the water slides at H2O Adventure and Fitness Centre
The H2O Adventure and Fitness Centre was voted the best place for family fun in Kelowna, and there’s no surprise why!
The H2O Centre is seriously epic.
It’s the biggest publicly-owned water park in all of Canada and it has three super thrilling waterslides that are 60, 80, and 90 meters long.
There’s also a cool river run with waves and floating devices, and the wave pool has waves up to 1.5 meters high.
If you’re bringing the little ones, the children’s water play area is packed with toys and all sorts of fun stuff like spray nozzles, jets, and pull valves.
This is a great family friendly activity to do this winter in Kelowna!
34. Take a yoga class at one of the local studios
The Okanagan region is home to many yoga studios, and the winter season is a great time to take a class.
Find your inner peace and relax with a yoga session.
Here are some of the top rated yoga studios in Kelowna:
- YYOGA Kelowna: This studio offers a wide range of yoga classes for all levels, as well as other fitness classes such as Pilates and barre.
- The Yoga Den: This studio offers a variety of yoga classes for all levels, as well as Pilates and meditation classes.
- Pure Hot Yoga: This studio specializes in hot yoga classes, and also offers other fitness classes such as Pilates and barre.
- The Om Room: This studio offers a variety of yoga classes for all levels, as well as meditation and mindfulness classes.
- The Yoga Collective: This studio offers a wide range of yoga classes for all levels, as well as Pilates and other fitness classes.
35. Relax the afternoon away in a salt cave
Room & Pillar Spa is a beautiful spa in Kelowna that offers salt therapy in a salt cave, and it’s such a unique experience!
They provide dry salt therapy through the exposure of thousands of pounds of Himalayan salt and a machine called a Halogenerator that grinds pharmaceutical grade salt particles and releases it into the cave.
Here you can relax, meditate and breathe in the healing salt air while listening to meditative music and being surrounded by floor to ceiling Himalayan salt.
They also offer massages and other spa treatments, and it really is the perfect way to spend a winter day in Kelowna.
This is definitely one of the most relaxing things to do in Kelowna in winter!
Final Thoughts
As you can see from this post, there sure are a lot of fun things to do in Kelowna in winter!
Whether you’re looking for more relaxing activities like wine tastings and theatre shows, or want a more thrill seeking adventure, this guide has you covered.
By the way, if you’re visiting Kelowna soon you might also want to check out these posts:
- 31 Awesome Things to do in Kelowna
- The Best Wineries in Kelowna – Kelowna Winery Guide
- 7 Best Wineries for Lunch in Kelowna
- 6 wineries you need to visit in Oliver & Osoyoos
- Wineries of Lake Country – The perfect Kelowna day trip!
- 6 of the most instagrammable places in Kelowna
Which of these Kelowna winter activities are you most excited to try?
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