Fall is a beautiful time to visit Kelowna and the surrounding valley. Harvest season is in full swing, with apples, pears, pumpkins, and late-season plums ready to be picked. The agricultural industry flourishes at this time of year, offering visitors the chance to not only taste the bounty but also experience it first-hand through orchard strolls, farm markets, and even a classic apple u-pick. What makes this season even more special is the legacy of family-owned farms and orchards, where generations have worked the land and welcomed locals and visitors to share in their traditions. If you're looking for things to do during Kelowna's fall, stop by these local Farm Spots.
Gatzke Orchard in Oyama
Apples at Gatzke Orchards. Photo: Mirae Campbell (@miraecampbell)
The story of Gatzke Orchard in Oyama began almost by accident when Grandpa Leo Gatzke missed his train stop, starting a family legacy that now spans four generations. Today, the orchard is more than just a place to buy fruit, it’s a historic orchard and a testament to how deep the agricultural roots run in the Okanagan. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the café, pick out some fresh-grown produce right from the farm, and find other local and seasonal products to take home. Of course, you can't miss Grandma Gatzke’s apple pie, now lovingly made by her great-granddaughters, which remains a highlight.
This fall, Gatzke Orchard is brimming with pears like Bartlett, Anjou, Clapps Favourite, and Kotsui, along with late-season plums in several varieties, including Golden, Black Amber, Rancher, and even the unique “Mystery Plum.” Apple lovers will also be in their element, as the orchard offers a massive variety from Golden Delicious and Gala to the local favourite, Ambrosia. Rooted in history yet alive with modern flavours and experiences, Gatzke Orchard blends family tradition with fall abundance.
KLO Farm Market in the Lower Mission Neighbourhood
KLO Market is Family-owned and Operated.
Located on KLO Road in Kelowna, KLO Farm Market is another example of how family passion and hard work shape the agricultural landscape. Run by a local family and their dedicated staff since 2019, the market makes it easy for visitors and residents alike to stock up on seasonal produce and farm-fresh goods. Since 2023, KLO Farm Market began implementing the Environmental Farm Plan, which shows their dedication to sustainable farming practices in an effort to build healthy soil, which then provides healthy produce. Inside, the shelves are filled with everything from fruits and vegetables to milk, cheeses, eggs, poultry, and locally made sauces and dressings. It’s a one-stop shop for anyone looking to bring a taste of Kelowna home.
During the fall harvest, KLO Farm Market offers an abundant selection that captures the shift from late summer into cooler months. Visitors can pick up pears and apples alongside hearty staples like squash, pumpkins, and potatoes. The wide variety ensures that whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving meal, looking for crisp apples to snack on, or simply browsing for local flavours, you’ll find it here. This is more than a convenient stop—it’s a continuation of a family’s commitment to connecting Kelowna with the freshest local food possible.
Paynter’s Fruit Market in West Kelowna
Owner Jennay Paynter. Photo: Wines of British Columbia
The Paynter family’s story began in Alnwick, England, before emigrating to Canada in 1909. After World War I, Edwin and Margaret Paynter returned to West Kelowna in 1919 to farm the land, raising seven children. Six remained in Westbank, while one daughter settled in East Kelowna. In 1951, Henry Paynter Sr recorded in his diary, “Sold our first cherries on the side of the road”—a simple note that marked the start of Paynter’s Fruit Market. Since then, the farm has been passed down through generations, evolving into the beloved market it is today.
With 106 years of farming and 72 years of sharing produce with locals and visitors, Paynter's Fruit Market and the Paynter's family have built a reputation for quality, authenticity, and deep ties to the land. From May through October, the market is overflowing with fruits and vegetables grown on the farm or sourced from nearby BC growers. Each season brings something different, and fall is no exception. Shoppers can find apples, pears, and other harvest favourites, with the added bonus of u-pick opportunities depending on timing. Strolling through the orchard to pick your own fruit is a quintessential Okanagan fall experience, giving visitors a true taste of farm life. With more than a century of history, Paynter’s is a reminder of how strong family roots create experiences that keep people coming back year after year.
Savouring Family Traditions This Season
Kelowna’s fall harvest is more than a collection of fruits and vegetables; it’s a celebration of family, history, and tradition. Whether you’re enjoying pie at Gatzke Orchard, filling a basket of squash and potatoes at KLO Farm Market, or picking apples straight from the tree at Paynter’s Fruit Market, each stop connects you to generations of growers who have shaped the Okanagan’s agricultural story. Visiting these Farm Spots and markets is a must-add to your list of things to do in Kelowna this fall.
Plan your trip this fall and explore more at tourismkelowna.com
