(1) Fireworks at Stuart Park. Photo: Voth Photography, (2) Fireworks at Big White Ski Resort., (3) New York New Years at Stuart Park. Photo: Voth Photography
Fireworks are one of the most popular ways to welcome the new year in Kelowna, especially for those looking to celebrate earlier in the evening. Displays and viewing locations vary year to year, but there are a few places where fireworks are commonly part of New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Downtown Kelowna
Community celebrations in Downtown Kelowna often include an early evening fireworks display, typically centred around Stuart Park and the waterfront. These fireworks are usually timed with an earlier countdown, making them ideal for families and anyone who prefers to celebrate before midnight.
Big White Ski Resort
Big White Ski Resort frequently hosts New Year’s Eve festivities in the village, with fireworks lighting up the alpine sky. The combination of snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, and mountain views makes this a memorable way to ring in the new year.
SilverStar Mountain Resort
Just north of Kelowna in Vernon, SilverStar Mountain Resort often features fireworks and family-friendly celebrations as part of their New Year’s Eve programming. It’s a great option for visitors staying in the region or already enjoying time on the slopes.
Fireworks schedules and locations change each year. For the most up-to-date details, check our winter events calendar closer to New Year’s Eve.
Celebrate Early with Family-Friendly New Year's Eve Events
New York New Year's at Stuart Park.
New Year’s Eve in Kelowna is easy to enjoy as a family, with plenty of options that don’t require staying up until midnight.
Downtown celebrations like the annual New York New Year's typically feature live entertainment, activity stations, games, and festive programming designed for all ages. Paired with early fireworks, these events allow families with younger children to be part of the excitement without a late night.
For an active and cozy indoor option, McCurdy Bowling Centre often offers New Year’s Eve specials, including evening all-you-can-bowl packages. It’s a fun, low-key way to celebrate together while staying warm.
Families visiting during the holidays can also find kid-friendly programming at local attractions, recreation centres, and ski resorts throughout the day, making it easy to build a full New Year’s Eve itinerary around the interests of all ages.
Enjoy a Memorable New Year’s Eve Dinner
BLOCK ONE Restaurant at 50th Parallel Estate Winery. Photo: Darren Hull Studios
New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular nights of the year to dine out in Kelowna. Many restaurants mark the occasion with special menus that highlight seasonal ingredients, local wines, and thoughtful pairings.
Across the city, you’ll often find prix fixe dinners, multi-course tasting menus, and wine-paired experiences created specifically for the evening. From plant-forward dining and Italian-inspired feasts to classic French bistro fare and lakeside fine dining, there’s no shortage of ways to toast the year ahead.
Wineries and winery restaurants also lean into the season, offering intimate dining experiences that reflect the Okanagan’s agricultural roots. Expect thoughtfully curated menus, cellared vintages, and sparkling wine to mark the moment.
Menus and offerings change each year, but the focus remains the same: celebrating local flavours and creating a memorable night out.
Ring in Midnight with Music, Nightlife, and Comedy
Photo: BreakOut West & Matt Lucas
New Year’s Eve in Kelowna offers plenty of ways to celebrate after dark, whether you’d rather laugh your way into January or dance until the countdown hits zero.
Comedy shows are a popular option on New Year’s Eve, often featuring touring performers or local favourites. Many include dinner options or a midnight champagne toast, making them ideal for couples or groups looking for something lively but low-pressure. These events tend to sell out, so planning ahead is always a good idea.
For those who love a packed dance floor, Kelowna’s nightlife scene delivers. Breweries, music venues, and nightclubs regularly host themed parties, live bands, or DJ-led dance nights to mark the occasion. Expect decorations, late-night snacks, and a glass of bubbly at midnight at many celebrations.
Whether your idea of a perfect night involves live music, throwback dance parties, stand-up comedy, or something more high-energy, there’s usually an option that fits your vibe. As events are announced each year, checking listings early helps secure tickets and make the most of the night.
Start the Year with Something Refreshing
Polar Bear Plunge. Photo: CRIS Adaptive
New Year’s in Kelowna doesn’t end at midnight.
New Year’s Day often brings opportunities to reset, reflect, or challenge yourself in classic Okanagan fashion. One of the most well-known traditions is the annual CRIS Polar Bear Dip, where participants plunge into Okanagan Lake to kick off the year while supporting CRIS Adaptive. It’s chilly, energizing, and a favourite for both spectators and brave participants.
If a calmer start is more your style, yoga studios and wellness spaces around Kelowna frequently host New Year’s Day classes, workshops, or visioning sessions. These experiences focus on intention-setting, mindfulness, and starting the year feeling grounded.
Turn It Into a Staycation
One of the best ways to spend New Year’s in Kelowna is by turning the celebration into an overnight getaway.
Several lakeside resorts and hotels regularly offer New Year’s Eve dining experiences paired with the convenience of staying on-site. After dinner, live music, or a midnight toast, you can head straight to your room rather than worrying about the trip home.
Many accommodations also offer seasonal packages during the holidays, which may include extras like bubbly, local chocolates, spa access, or late checkouts. It’s an easy way to make the night feel special while starting the new year rested and relaxed.
