(1) Kelowna Rockets, (2) Kelowna Rockets, (3) Memorial Cup in Kelowna
The Memorial Cup is one of the most prestigious championships in junior hockey, bringing together four of the Canadian Hockey League's top junior teams, including the Kelowna Rockets as the host team. In 2026, Kelowna will serve as the backdrop for this iconic tournament, welcoming hockey enthusiasts from across Canada and beyond.
Over the course of ten days, fans can expect high-stakes games, a lively downtown atmosphere, and city-wide excitement. Prospera Place will be the main venue, with additional activations and events taking place throughout the downtown core. Restaurants, patios, and public spaces will buzz with activity as fans gather before and after games.
Late May in Kelowna typically brings mild temperatures and long daylight hours. Expect daytime highs that are comfortable for exploring between games. Pack layers for evenings near the lake and comfortable walking shoes for moving between the arena, restaurants, and waterfront trails. May is also a time when beach days become more frequent, so a bathing suit might be worth packing!
For official details and updates, visit the Memorial Cup 2026 website.
Where It’s Happening: Prospera Place and Downtown Kelowna
Downtown Kelowna. Photo: Ken Hagen
All games will take place at Prospera Place, located in the Cultural District. The venue is just steps from the waterfront, hotels, restaurants, and shops.
One of the biggest advantages of attending Memorial Cup 2026 in Kelowna is walkability. From Prospera Place, you can stroll to the lakefront in minutes, explore Bernard Avenue’s boutiques and cafés, or unwind in nearby parks between games. Downtown Kelowna is compact and vibrant, making it easy to turn a hockey trip into a full Okanagan getaway. Expect downtown to feel festive. Public viewing areas, fan zones, and special programming may activate surrounding streets and public spaces. Keep an eye on event updates as the tournament approaches.
While downtown will be the epicentre of the action, your experience does not have to stop there. Everything in Kelowna is within a short drive, and it is easy to explore beyond the core. Getting around Kelowna is easy with public transit, ride-share apps, and taxis, which offer convenient transportation options, whether you are heading to the winery communities, the scenic views from a sunset hike, or the lakefront communities further south.
Take time to explore other neighbourhoods across Kelowna and the surrounding Okanagan while you are here. Each area offers its own personality, from vineyard-lined country roads to relaxed lakeside communities. You can browse our neighbourhood guides to discover where to eat, stay, and explore beyond downtown.
(1) Downtown Waterfront Promenade. Photo: Photos by Ash, (2) Wine Tasting at Mt Boucherie Winery. Photo: Ken Hagen, (3) View of Downtown Kelowna from Knox Mountain. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography, (4) Biking Downtown by the Kelowna Visitor Centre., (5) Lakeside Dining at Hotel Eldorado. Photo: Ken Hagen
Getting Here and Around
Kelowna is easily accessible for fans travelling from across Canada.
By Air
Kelowna International Airport is a short drive from downtown and offers direct flights from major Canadian cities. Consider making the most of your trip by renting a car from companies like Budget Car & Truck Rental, which can be conveniently booked and picked up from the airport.
By Road
Highways connect Kelowna to Vancouver, Calgary, and other regional centres. The scenic drive through the Okanagan Valley adds to the experience.
Getting Around Town
Downtown Kelowna is highly walkable. Taxis, ride-share services, and public transit provide convenient options for exploring beyond the core. If you plan to visit wineries or surrounding communities, consider booking a guided tour or arranging transportation in advance.
