Winter holidays are almost here and with them come a magical time of lights and splendour. It’s almost time to visit some festive markets filled with local crafts and to get excited for visiting homes topped merrily with Christmas lights. And it’s definitely time to drink cozy drinks and take part in snowy outdoor activities like skiing and snowshoeing. Check out our list of winter holiday activities to get some ideas. There’s lots for the whole family to do together!
Snow Sports at Telemark Nordic Club
Get some snowy exercise in West Kelowna up at the Telemark Nordic Club. They have over 40 kilometres of cross-country trails, groomed for skate and classic skiing, with 3.5km of lit trails for night skiing. There are also almost 40 kms of trails for snowshoers. Want to bring a furry friend along? There are 10 kms of K9-friendly trails.
Location: Glenrosa Road, West Kelowna
36 min drive (28.4km) from the Shore
Festival of Trees at Mission Hill Family Estate
Head up to Mission Hill Family Estate and prepare to be dazzled by the Festival of Trees in a wintery wonderland. Tree decorations and lights are sponsored by local businesses, organizations, and members of the Kelowna community. Proceeds from this event go on to support the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, funding pediatric diabetes research.
Location: 1730 Mission Hill Road, West Kelowna
26 min drive (14.4km) from the Shore
Candy Cane Lane
Spanning Collison Road, Gramiak Road and Mary Court, which come together to form a giant candy cane, Candy Cane Lane is Kelowna’s most festive and fun neighbourhood. Close to 70 homes put up elaborate lights, displays, and decorations for the community to enjoy. You can walk or drive through, but we recommend walking from both a safety point of view and so you can take in the sights up close and personal.
All for a worthy cause, the cost is a non-perishable food item for Kelowna’s women’s and men’s shelter. Bring a to-go mug of hot chocolate and some winter wear, and you’re set to take in the magic! Check out the Facebook page for more information.
Location: Collison Road, Gramiak Road and Mary Court
12 min drive (7.5km) from the Shore
Craft Culture Holiday Market
On December 2 to the 4th, head to Prospera Place for the biggest and most anticipated holiday market of the year – Craft Culture Holiday Market. Peruse 180 vendor stalls with regional crafters and artisans to grab some great gifts for the family. They’ve added an extra day this year to try and reduce crowds so you can have a safe and enjoyable shopping experience, book your tickets ahead of time to make sure you’ve got a spot!
Location: 1223 Water St.
11 min drive (4.7km) from the Shore
Kelowna Community Theatre
For many people, holiday traditions include going to the theatre. This December, the Community Theatre has two festive weekend events. The first is the ever-popular Nutcracker ballet. The Canadian School Of Ballet returns to the city for their 32nd year with special guest performances by Ballet Kelowna. Enjoy this spectacular celebration of imagination with lavish costumes, settings, and nonstop dance. Experience the Nutcracker at Kelowna’s Community Theatre during the weekend of December 9-11th.
The second event, happening from December 16-18th is an evening with the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra featuring Ken Lavigne and the Okanagan Children’s Choir. Enjoy a magical evening as he breathes life into some seasonal favourites.
Location: 1375 Water St
11 min drive (4.4km) from the Shore
Ice Skating in Kelowna
Starting in November when the weather’s cold enough and running until late February, free skating is open to the public at Stuart Park. With skate and helmet rentals available, the whole family will be able to take part. You’ll also find trainer walkers available for those that need a bit more stability on the ice. Stay toasty warm by the natural gas fire pit, or swing by one of the many nearby coffee shops for a hot chocolate before or after getting on the ice.
Location: 1430 Water St
10 min drive (4km) from the Shore
Kelowna Winter Market
On December 3rd, head down to Water Street to catch Kelowna’s winter market, a free community event geared towards all ages. Experience delicious food and drink, local products for sale, music, family activities, and, of course, a visit with Santa.
Location: 1375 Water St
12 min drive (3.8km) from the Shore
Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market
Starting November 12th, the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market heads indoors for their winter market version. Grab some fresh produce or try some tasty treats from local bakeries. You’ll also be able to pick up some handmade clothes or crafts to use as holiday gifts for your loved ones.
Location: 1375 Water St
12 min drive (3.8km) from the Shore
Staying Cozy at The Shore
Built for long-term stays, each suite in The Shore is fully equipped with modern amenities. If you do get caught out in some wintery weather, our units are all equipped with an in-suite washer and dryer for easy cleanup. Whether you’re in town for work, school, or play, The Shore is the perfect place to call home. Learn more about our suites and apply today.
P.S. We’ve got 5 delicious meals that you can cook right in your suite. If you’d rather have someone else cook for you, be sure to check out some of the best nearby restaurants.