Downtown Winter Aerial 6

Winter in Kelowna

Snowy Adventure and Cozy Evenings

Winter in Kelowna is a season of contrast, sparkling snow in the mountains and peaceful calm along Okanagan Lake. Whether you’re carving fresh powder, skating under twinkling lights, or sipping mulled wine by the fire, Kelowna’s winter days balance adventure with comfort.

Skiing and Snow Play

Just a short drive from downtown, Big White Ski Resort delivers world-class skiing and snowboarding, plus tubing, skating, and family-friendly fun. Champagne powder, wide-open runs, and a welcoming village atmosphere make it a winter playground for all ages.

To the north, SilverStar Mountain Resort near Vernon offers another spectacular option. Known for its colourful village and laid-back charm, SilverStar combines diverse terrain with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and even fat biking. With two resorts within easy reach, visitors can enjoy a variety of snow experiences all in one trip.

Two Resorts, One Trip 

Winter in Kelowna offers something rare: the chance to ski two world-class resorts in a single visit.

With Big White just 45 minutes from Kelowna and SilverStar just over an hour’s drive north, it’s easy to experience both. Start your trip carving powder at Big White, then head to SilverStar for a change of scenery, new runs, and more mountain adventure.

For skiers and snowboarders, Kelowna is the perfect basecamp, where two unique resorts double the winter fun.

Festive Downtown

In Kelowna, winter sparkles with festive energy. Stuart Park transforms into an outdoor skating rink framed by mountain views and holiday lights. Downtown shops, galleries, and cafés offer cozy stops for warming up, while seasonal markets and events bring the community together to celebrate.

Cozy Food and Drink

Winter is the perfect time to slow down and savour. Wineries, breweries, and restaurants embrace the season with hearty dishes, mulled wine, and fireside tastings. Local flavours take centre stage, from comforting farm-to-table meals to sweet winter treats.

Lakeside Calm

Even in winter, Okanagan Lake offers its own kind of magic. The shoreline is quiet, the air crisp, and the mountains often dusted in white. It’s a season for peaceful walks, birdwatching, or simply pausing to take in the stillness of the landscape.

Top 5 Things to Do in Winter

  1. Ski or Snowboard Big White. Enjoy champagne powder, family-friendly terrain, and village charm.
  2. Ski SilverStar Mountain Resort. Explore diverse terrain, Nordic trails, and a colourful alpine village near Vernon.
  3. Skate at Stuart Park. Glide across Kelowna’s outdoor rink under festive lights with lake and mountain views.
  4. Snowshoe Local Trails. Explore quiet winter landscapes on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
  5. Sip Seasonal Flavours. Warm up with mulled wine, craft beer, or fireside tastings at wineries and breweries.

A Season of Sparkle

Winter in Kelowna is more than a ski trip, it’s a time to embrace both the thrill of the mountains and the calm of the lake. With Big White and SilverStar nearby, plus festive city streets and cozy lakeside dining, every winter day offers a new way to shine.

Can't Miss Winter Experiences

Ski Resorts

Why just hike and bike through the mountains when you can ski, board and feel absolutely exhilarated.

Nordic Skiing

Gliding through a quiet forest under your own power while snowflakes float down from the sky is simply enchanting. Nordic skiers…

More to Discover Explore Winter

Discover the best winter experiences in Kelowna, from skiing and snowshoeing to festive events and cozy dining spots.