The July long weekend is when Kelowna truly hums to life. The valley is bursting with sunshine, patios buzz with laughter, and the lakes? Irresistible. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular visitor, here are seven ways to soak up the best of Kelowna this long weekend.

1. Explore the Lakes: Paddle, Float, or Cruise

Let’s start with the heart of it all: water. Kelowna is surrounded by lakes, including Okanagan Lake, Wood Lake, and Kalamalka Lake, each one with its own vibe. Rent a paddleboard and glide through early-morning calm, hop on a boat for an afternoon cruise, or simply float and forget what day it is. Many local lake rental businesses make it easy, offering everything from paddle boards and kayaks to Sea-Doos and pontoon boats. Pro tip: Kalamalka’s turquoise hue is unreal in July.

2. Dine Al Fresco on a Lakeside Patio

If patio-hopping were an Olympic sport, Kelowna would win a medal. Settle in at Earl’s Rooftop or King Taps for front-row lake views and people-watching. CRAFT Beer Market has the energy, Cactus Club the classics, and Maestro’s at Manteo offers lakeside sunset dining with a Mediterranean vibe. Over at the Lakeside Dining at Hotel Eldorado, elegance meets lake breeze, perfect for a long lunch or a romantic dinner. Want a winery vibe? Frind Winery’s beachside patio is the only one of its kind in North America.

3. Beach Hop & Bike Along the Shoreline

With over 400KM of bike lanes and 50KM of separated bike-friendly paths, Kelowna was made for casual pedalling. Start near downtown and follow Abbott Street south, you’ll weave past leafy parks, charming beach nooks, and perfect pit stops. Want something quieter? Take the Okanagan Rail Trail for access to secluded beaches near Wood and Kalamalka Lakes.

4. Hop on a Guided Tour (Or Go Self-Guided With a Twist)

Wine touring without the hassle of driving? Yes, please. Local guides offer half- and full-day wine tours with all the storytelling and history. Prefer a more active way to wine taste? Rent an e-bike or take a guided e-biking wine tour (the bikes even come with storage bags perfect for wine bottles!). Foodies can dig into Guided Food Tours downtown, while beer lovers can ride through Kelowna’s brewery district- or team up on a Smile Cycle beer tour!

5. Beat the Heat at Big White Ski Resort or SilverStar Mountain Resort

When the city is in full summer mode, cool air and alpine meadows are just an hour away. Big White Ski Resort and SilverStar Mountain Resort offer hiking trails, gondola rides, and scenic spots for a mountaintop picnic. July long weekend also brings festivals, music, and family-friendly fun at both resorts, perfect for a one-day escape or an overnight change of pace.

6. Learn About the syilx Okanagan Peoples

The syilx/Okanagan people have lived on and cared for this land since time immemorial. June marks Indigenous Peoples Month across Canada, making the July long weekend a timely opportunity to deepen your understanding and connection.

Reconciliation begins with awareness and engagement. Join an Indigenous plant walking tour, which happens monthly, to explore the traditional uses of local flora and the profound relationship between the syilx people and the land. Visit the kn k̓ʷul̓lm tl iʔ spuʔús (I made it from my heart) exhibit at the Kelowna Art Gallery, where Indigenous artists share stories through powerful, personal works. At the Sncewips Heritage Museum in Westbank, discover syilx history, language, and culture. In Westbank First Nation, you can find public art pieces that address the needs and aspirations of the WFN community and acknowledge WFN and syilx/Okanagan heritage. And as you explore the region, keep an eye out for Indigenous art, woven into murals, sculptures, and public spaces across the Okanagan Valley.

This weekend isn’t just about celebration, it’s also an invitation to listen, learn, and honour the enduring presence and contributions of the syilx people.

7. Attend an Event

Canada Day in the Okanagan is a true family affair, with celebrations lighting up the entire region. Tomorrow, festivities will take place in:

• Downtown Kelowna

• Swalwell Park in Lake Country

• Memorial Park in West Kelowna

• Heritage Park in Peachland

In downtown Kelowna, don’t miss “Country Corner,” hosted by the CCMA Country Music Week team. Channel your inner cowfolk, enjoy themed activities, and enter for a chance to win two tickets to the 2025 CCMA Awards, happening right here in Kelowna on September 13.

The July long weekend wraps up with a bang (literally). In downtown Kelowna, you’ll find live music, artisan markets, street performers, and family-friendly zones. Grab a bite from your favourite food truck, catch a live performance, and end the night under a sky full of fireworks over Okanagan Lake. It’s the kind of evening that stays with you long after the sparkles fade.