Agriculture is at the heart of the Okanagan Valley, where orchards blossom across the region thanks to the rich soil and climate. Apples, in particular, have become a signature crop, with several popular varieties originating right here in the valley. This fruit doesn’t just sustain local farmers and their orchards— they also power businesses like juice makers and cideries.

Despite a tough year marked by frost and the closure of BC Tree Fruits, the community has rallied together to celebrate the bounty of apples and other local produce. Here are a few ways you can make the most of harvest, specifically the apple harvest, right here in Kelowna.

 

Kelowna Apple Fest 2024

Gatzke_s_Farm_MarketGatzke Orchards. Photo: Mirae Campbell (@miraecampbell)

Join the first-ever Kelowna Apple Fest, happening from August 31st to September 8th. Across the Okanagan Valley, a variety of events and activities will be happening throughout the city with apple-themed dishes at local restaurants, unique apple products at retailers, and fresh apples straight from the farm. The Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market will be the heart of the festival, featuring fresh apple varieties and artisanal goods inspired by the harvest. Meet local farmers, stock up on apples (did you know they have one of the longest shelf lives if stored properly?), and enjoy all the festival has to offer. For the market schedule and to learn more about Kelowna Apple Fest, visit their website.

Here is a list of participating businesses for Apple Fest 2024:

Apple U-Pick Orchards

Fruit Picking with Baby
Photo: Wesla & Duane

Apple U-Pick orchards are a perfect way to embrace the apple harvest season with family and friends. Across the Okanagan Valley, many farms offer U-Pick experiences, allowing you to choose the apples you love most while enjoying the outdoors. It’s a fun activity for all ages and a great way to support local farmers while taking home the freshest produce right from the orchard.

 

Apple Picking Tips

  • This is a great experience for all ages. Have fun and take lots of photos, you can share them on Instagram with #exploreKelowna.
  • Each type of fruit requires a different picking technique to ensure you don't damage it. With apples, twist and pull the apple from the branch.
  • Ask questions. The farm staff is very knowledgeable about picking, fruit, and orchards.
  • Make sure that you only pick from the designated areas, as fruits and vegetables ripen at different times.
  • Fruit is ripe and ready when it easily comes off the tree branch; if it's hard to pull off it's not ready.
  • There can seem like an endless supply of fruits and vegetables to choose from (which there is). Plan out how much you will use while you're in Kelowna. Your eyes are often bigger than your stomach.

 

Visit an Apple Orchard or Fruit Stands

Fruit OrchardPhoto: Destination BC and Kari Medig

 

Local Orchards you can purchase Apples From

Tractor in Apple Orchard (2)Photo: Nic Collar Film

 

For a full list of Farms, Markets, & Orchards in the Okanagan Valley, click here.