Launched in 2017, Canada's Agriculture Day is a time to celebrate Canadian agriculture and food, and all those who work in the industry. Whether you are part of Canada's agriculture community, or simply want to show your support for this vital industry, learn more about the Central Okanagan's ag industry below and join in this year's celebrations on Tuesday, February 13.
Agriculture in the Central Okanagan
When it comes to agriculture, nothing says Kelowna quite like fresh fruit—think cherries, peaches, and apples—and locally-grown vegetables. Our region's agriculture sector started more than 160 years ago. Industry highlights from the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission show that the region has more than 800 farms and nearly 5,000 paid agriculture workers. There are also just over 400 fruit and tree nut farming businesses and over 51,000 acres of total farm area.
Showcasing the Central Okanagan's Strength in Agriculture
Over the past several years, Tourism Kelowna's business development team has showcased our region's strengths and success in agriculture as part of our economic sector strategy (ESS), which aligns with Destination Canada Business Events' ESS, to attract meetings and conferences. In 2021, to further these efforts, the award-winning OKGo marketing campaign was launched—this collaborative project was created through a partnership between the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC), Accelerate Okanagan, and Tourism Kelowna to jointly leverage the region’s key industry sectors, which include agriculture, to generate business investment and tourism.
Tourism Kelowna's Business Development Sales Manager, Nicolle Gomez de Sousa, will attend the Advancing Women in Agriculture West Conference for the third year in conjunction with the OKGo campaign.
Learn more about some of the Central Okanagan's agricultural success stories on the OKGo website.
Get Involved on Canada's Agriculture Day
Canada’s Agriculture Day is an opportunity to showcase all the amazing things happening in the industry and help consumers see the connection between where their food comes from and the people who produce it.
Here are a few ways you can get involved, whether you're in the industry or want to show your support:
- Post a photo, make a video, or write a blog. Share what you’re doing on social media using the hashtag #CdnAgDay.
- Encourage your customers, family, and friends to use all-Canadian ingredients to show off their culinary talents.
- Teach someone something new about agriculture—share your knowledge and story with others.
These ideas are only suggestions—come up with your own ways to share your passion for agriculture and inspire others to join the conversation. It’s all about celebrating Canadian agriculture and food in engaging, fun, and respectful ways. For more inspiration and resources, visit AgDay.ca. To discover more about our region's farms and orchards, visit our website.