The holiday season in Kelowna has a special kind of magic, especially when experienced together as a family. Downtown streets glow with festive lights, familiar holiday stories come to life on stage, and the lakefront takes on a calm, wintry charm that invites you to slow down and savour the moment.
During a recent holiday visit, Vancouver-based travel and lifestyle creator Ashley Kizito (@theashleyrhapsody) explored Kelowna with her husband and daughter, experiencing the city through a family-first lens. This two-day itinerary highlights the festive, walkable experiences they enjoyed in Downtown Kelowna, from seasonal dining and holiday markets to classic winter activities the whole family can enjoy.
Holiday Family Magic Trip in Kelowna with Ashley Kizito
Day 1: Festive Arrivals and Holiday Classics in Downtown Kelowna
Check into your family-friendly suite at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort and take some time to settle in. Start the holiday fun by exploring the Festival of Trees in the hotel lobby, then head out for dinner at Pretty Not Bad’sWinter Wonder Bar, where festive décor and seasonal favourites set the tone for the evening.
After dinner, enjoy a live theatre performance, like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by New Vintage Theatre, a holiday classic that’s perfect for all ages.
Wrap up the night with a family skate at Stuart Park, the free outdoor skating rink along the waterfront. With twinkling lights and Okanagan Lake nearby, it’s a classic winter experience and the perfect way to ease into a holiday getaway in Kelowna.
Stuart Park turns into a postcard-perfect skating rink in the winter, framed by mountains, twinkling lights, and the shimmer of…
Day 2: Markets, Lights, and Local Dining
Start the day with a swim and hot tub soak at the Delta Grand, then walk to Sprout Bread for a cozy breakfast. The Mushroom Ricotta Toast is a favourite and a great way to fuel up.
Spend the afternoon at Downtown Kelowna's Winter Light Up & Street Market, browsing local vendors, enjoying live entertainment, and warming up with hot chocolate along the waterfront. Or, take advantage of one of the many holiday markets and events happening across the Okanagan. Take a break for lunch at Oak + Cru’s festively decorated Cellar, with 2025's theme being the Gingerbread Cellar, before returning to the market to watch the trees light up.
End the day with dinner at Erica Jane, where locally inspired dishes and a welcoming downtown atmosphere make for a memorable family meal.
Erica Jane provides an Elevated Dining experience in the Okanagan.
Where to Stay
The Delta Grand by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort is a popular choice for families visiting Kelowna during the holidays. With family-friendly suites, an indoor pool, hot tub, and seasonal resort activities, it offers plenty of ways to unwind between outings. Its waterfront location and easy access to downtown attractions make it a convenient and comfortable home base for a holiday stay in Kelowna.
This urban resort offers stylish hotel rooms and suites, many with Lake views.
Plan Your Holiday Trip to Kelowna
Kelowna makes it easy to experience winter as a family, especially during the holiday season. With festive markets, live theatre and performances, cozy dining, and walkable downtown attractions, the city offers a welcoming setting for creating meaningful holiday memories together.
Whether you follow this itinerary step by step or simply use it as inspiration, Kelowna delivers a holiday experience that feels relaxed, festive, and full of heart. Start planning your winter getaway at tourismkelowna.com
About the Creator @theashleyrhapsody
"As a mom and content creator, I’m on a mission to uncover the most family-friendly events and activities around YVR. Think of me as your personal tour guide to all things fun and exciting for the whole crew.
My ultimate goal is to help families make meaningful connections, have a blast, and PLAY! And with my fam by my side, we’re always ready to tackle the next adventure."
Meet Darby, a devoted foodie, arts enthusiast, and travel lover with a deep appreciation for all things local. As the Social Media & Content Lead at Tourism Kelowna, Darby combines her passion for storytelling with a love for the Okanagan, sharing unique experiences through engaging content and creative writing. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
