Kelowna

Kelowna is a city in the British Columbia Interior of Canada, located in the Okanagan Valley on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake. It is the largest city in the Central Okanagan and the broader Okanagan region, serving as a commercial and cultural hub for the area.

The area was traditionally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Secwepemc and Okanagan nations. European settlement began in the late 19th century, and the community grew as an agricultural center before being incorporated as a city in 1905. As of the 2021 census, Kelowna had a population of about 142,000.

Kelowna has a diversified economy anchored by agriculture, particularly fruit orchards and vineyards, as well as tourism, education, health care, and light manufacturing. It sits at the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan wine region, with many wineries and vineyards nearby that attract visitors year-round. The city’s lakefront, parks, golf courses, and nearby ski resorts contribute to its appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation.

Education and culture are prominent in Kelowna. The University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus is located in the city, along with Okanagan College. Cultural institutions include galleries, performing arts venues, and a vibrant downtown. Kelowna is served by Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and connected by Highway 97, with public transit provided by BC Transit. The climate is semi-arid, characterized by hot summers and cold winters, with relatively low annual precipitation.