Welcome to Kelowna! As the city proudly hosts the Olympic Qualification Event (OQE) 2025, we’re thrilled to welcome athletes, teams, and fans from around the world. Whether you’re here to cheer on your favourite curlers or to soak up the spirit of competition, there’s plenty to discover beyond the ice. From lakeside views and vibrant downtown streets to world-class wineries and local flavours, Kelowna is ready to make your stay unforgettable.
With so many visitors travelling to Kelowna, some for the first time, we have compiled some helpful information and ideas of things to see and do for those attendees looking to fill downtime or those who have extended their stays.
Get your tickets to experience the Olympic Qualification Event 2025 live in Kelowna.
Savour Kelowna Sips and Bites
Kettle River Brewing. Photo: BC Ale Trail
The Kelowna Curling Club is a short walk from numerous choice spots to eat and drink. In the nearby North End, you'll find many of Kelowna's craft breweries, Sandhill Winery, and Pretty Not Bad, which dubs itself an "unconventional sports hub," which turns into Winter Wonderbar, a holiday-themed pop-up to get you in the Christmas spirit. Downtown, you'll also find Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery, BC's original craft distillery.
A short walk southwest from the Curling Club will offer up the following options:
- North End Brewery District is home to breweries, a winery, and a cocktail bar.
- Casual dining at Double J Hong Kong Fusion, Soul de Cuba Cafe, and Tiffin India's Fresh Kitchen.
- Elevated pub fare at BNA Brewing, Central Kitchen + Bar, and The Train Station Pub.
- Fine dining at Bouchons Bistro, Erica Jane Restaurant, and Waterfront Wines Restaurant.
Find more restaurant options in downtown Kelowna here.
Explore Kelowna’s Cultural District
Okanagan Heritage Museum. Photo: Kelowna Museums
Explore Kelowna’s Cultural District, where you'll find museums, art galleries, public art, and more, which is also close to the Kelowna Curling Club. Here are a few ideas of things to do in the District:
- The Okanagan Heritage Museum's latest exhibit is Weird & Wonderful, an exhibition of the curious and extraordinary.
- The Kelowna Art Gallery has several ongoing exhibits, including Seriously? by Comedy and Satire in Canadian Art 1970s - Now and To Be Something More by Sandeep Johal, among others.
- Kelowna's arts and culture hub, the Rotary Centre for the Arts (RCA), is home to several gallery spaces that can be visited free of charge. Several events will also occur at the RCA in and around the Championships; find out more on the RCA website.
Click here for a digital Cultural District map, or use the mobile-friendly walking tour.
Discover Kelowna's Wine Country
Winter Wine Tasting at Quails' Gate Winery. Photo: Megan Reading
Kelowna is known as wine country, and with over 40 wineries in the area, it's easy to see why. Winter wine tasting is always a great experience. Tasting rooms tend to be a little less crowded, which means more one-on-one time with the winemaker and knowledgeable staff. Head out to one of the wine spots for some fun wine tasting and stunning views.
- One of the best ways to explore wine country is with a guided tour - whether you only have a few hours or a full day, guided tours make it easy to discover hidden gems, iconic estates, and everything in between.
- New to exploring wineries? Not a problem! Here's your Wine Touring 101 Guide to help make the most of your visit!
- Not sure where to go on your wine touring adventure? Check out the Wine Spots page to learn about the different wine areas in Kelowna.
Stop by the Kelowna Visitor Centre
At the Kelowna Visitor Centre, located along the waterfront boardwalk at 238 Queensway Avenue and open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., you’ll find an array of curated local goods and art. There, you can connect with our Community & Visitor Engagement for dining recommendations or more ideas of things to see and do in and around Kelowna.
Helpful Planning Resources
- Use our itinerary builder to keep track of things to do and plan your schedule.
- Access our Neighbourhood Guides:
- Learn more about Kelowna’s array of accommodation options.
- Discover more of Kelowna in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
What transportation options are available in Kelowna?
- Kelowna Concierge operates a privately booked shuttle from the Kelowna International Airport to/from local hotels; click here for more information.
- There are several taxi companies in Kelowna, including Current Taxi, Kelowna Cabs, West Cabs, and ridesharing companies like Uber and URide.
- The Kelowna Regional Transit System offers public transportation in the region. Schedules can be viewed online; physical copies can be picked up at the Kelowna Visitor Centre or on the bus. Click here for fare information.
- Click here for more information on getting around Kelowna.
What is the weather like in December?
- Temperatures cool down through December, with averages for the month being a high of 1°C / 34°F and a low of -6°C / 21°F.
- Pack lots of layers and a decent jacket, and keep in mind that temperatures will be cooler near the lake and at higher elevations, so prepare accordingly if you’re exploring outdoors.
What amenities and shops are available near the venue?
- Sports Equipment: Chevy's Source for Sports, Play It Again Sports
- Groceries/Markets: Canada Safeway (including pharmacy)
- Medical Clinic: Capri Medical Centre, Kelowna Urgent and Primary Care Centre, Spall Medical Clinic & Walk-in
- Pharmacies: Pharmasave, Shoppers Drug Mart
- Post Office: Canada Post at Towne Centre Card Shop
- Souvenirs/Postcards: Ogopogo Giftland, Souvenirs Kelowna/Towne Centre Card Shop, Kelowna Visitor Centre