Kelowna UNESCO City of Gastronomy

Kelowna is Canada’s first city designated a City of Gastronomy by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. In the heart of the Okanagan Valley, food is shaped by a semi-arid climate, a long growing season, and land protected for agriculture. Orchards reach toward the lake. Vineyards climb sunlit slopes. Kitchens respond to what is harvested that week. Here, gastronomy is a living expression of soil, season, and community.

A Global Designation Grounded in Place

As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Kelowna is internationally recognized for its agricultural strength, sustainable food systems, culinary innovation, and collaboration across the community.

Located on the traditional, unceded territory of the syilx / Okanagan people, Kelowna’s culinary identity reflects generations of stewardship and respect for the land. Today, farmers, winemakers, chefs, and makers continue that relationship, transforming the valley’s harvest into experiences rooted in place.

To see how this connection unfolds from soil to table, explore our Culinary Journey video series below.

Land

Passion

Enjoyment

Rooted in Agriculture

Kelowna sits at the centre of one of Canada’s most concentrated agricultural regions. The Okanagan Valley’s semi-arid climate and the moderating influence of Okanagan Lake create ideal conditions for orchards and vineyards to thrive.

From cherries exported globally to cool-climate wines such as Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay that earn international acclaim, the valley’s reputation is built on quality and care. A long-standing commitment to protecting farmland through British Columbia’s Agricultural Land Reserve ensures agriculture remains central to the region’s identity for generations to come.

Discover where it begins through our Farms, Orchards & Markets.

A True Farm-to-Table Destination

In Kelowna, farm-to-table is not a trend. It is how the city eats.

Restaurants design menus around what is at its peak. Chefs collaborate directly with farmers, shaping dishes around ingredients harvested nearby. The result is food that reflects the rhythm of the valley and the character of the season.

Winery restaurants overlook the vines that fill your glass. Downtown kitchens source from farms just minutes away. Here, proximity is part of the experience.

Explore local Restaurants in Kelowna, discover the region’s Wineries in Kelowna, or book a Guided Wine Tour to experience it firsthand.

Experience Kelowna Through Taste

Every season offers a distinct expression of the valley.

In spring, orchard blossoms signal what’s to come. Summer brings sun-warmed peaches and cherries. Fall marks harvest and crush season. Winter invites intimate tastings and thoughtfully composed seasonal menus.

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Old Vines Restaurant in Winter at Quails Gate

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(1) Orchard Blossoms, (2) Hand Picked Peaches, (3) Harvest Grape Crush, (4) Old Vines Restaurant at Quails Gate Winery

Sip wine overlooking the vineyard it came from. Meet growers at a roadside stand. Wander a farmers’ market filled with orchard fruit. Take a cooking class inspired by Okanagan ingredients.

Whether you are planning a culinary weekend or a longer exploration of the valley, Kelowna invites you to experience gastronomy at its source.

What the UNESCO Designation Recognizes

Kelowna’s inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network reflects a complete culinary ecosystem built on:

Agricultural depth and protected farmland
Sustainable vineyard and farming practices
Internationally acclaimed wine production
Culinary education and hands-on food experiences
Collaboration between producers, chefs, and community
Respect for Indigenous knowledge and stewardship

Food in Kelowna connects urban energy with rural abundance. It strengthens community, supports local families, and invites visitors to engage with a food culture that is innovative yet deeply rooted in place.

By the Numbers

Kelowna’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation reflects both city-level commitment and the strength of the broader Okanagan Valley food system:

45% of Kelowna’s land base is zoned for agriculture, representing nearly 10,000 hectares, including approximately 8,600 hectares within British Columbia’s Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). Source: City of Kelowna Agricultural Plan
The Central Okanagan region is home to 807 farms and 20,888 hectares of total farmland, including 27,123 hectares protected within the Agricultural Land Reserve. Source: 2021 Census of Agriculture (BC Government)
The Okanagan Valley is home to 286 wineries, making it one of Canada’s most significant and internationally recognized wine regions. Source: Wine Growers BC

Together, these figures demonstrate a region where agriculture is foundational to identity, economy, and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a UNESCO City of Gastronomy?

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network recognizes cities that use culture and creativity to support sustainable development. As a City of Gastronomy, Kelowna demonstrates excellence in agriculture, culinary innovation, sustainability, education, and community collaboration.

When did Kelowna receive the UNESCO designation?

Kelowna became Canada’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2025.

Why is Kelowna internationally recognized for food and wine?

Kelowna sits at the heart of the Okanagan Valley, one of Canada’s most productive agricultural regions. Its climate and protected farmland support orchards, internationally acclaimed cool-climate wines, and a vibrant farm-to-table dining culture.

How many wineries are in the Okanagan Valley?

The Okanagan Valley is home to 286 wineries, making it one of Canada’s most significant wine-producing regions.

When is the best time to visit Kelowna for culinary experiences?

Every season offers something distinct. Summer and fall highlight harvest and winery experiences, while spring and winter showcase evolving seasonal menus, intimate tastings, and culinary events.