Launched in 2022, the #exploreKelowna Creator Program continues to grow as a powerful platform to spotlight local experiences through the eyes of talented content creators based in the Central Okanagan. In 2024, five creators collaborated with Tourism Kelowna to share vibrant, season-spanning stories that highlighted the depth and diversity of our destination.
“Since starting the program, I’ve focused in on the Okanagan and that shift has really helped grow my local audience. People were excited to see me partnering with a tourism board—it added credibility and sparked more engagement.”
2024 Results
From May 2024 to April 2025, the program generated more than 20 unique content pieces across social channels. Together, they featured 44 local businesses and experiences, from sunrise hikes and vineyard strolls to wellness retreats, lakeside dining, wine tasting, paddling, craft sips, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and more.
The results speak volumes:
- More than 330K accounts reached
- Over 689K views across platforms
- 5,330 content shares
- 44 local businesses featured organically
These authentic, high-quality stories not only captured the spirit of the region but also supported year-round visitation goals by showcasing shoulder-season activities and lesser-known experiences.
“As a small creator, I felt truly supported. The encouragement from my community made this journey incredibly special. Their enthusiasm reminded me why I create.”
Supporting Local, Driving Visitation
The #exploreKelowna Creator Program is designed to support industry growth by:
- Increasing awareness of local businesses and tourism offerings.
- Driving social engagement with meaningful, high-value content.
- Encouraging seasonal dispersion by highlighting off-peak travel.
- Creating evergreen assets that showcase the destination from a local lens.
Participating businesses benefited from organic exposure to engaged audiences, with creators sharing tailored stories that reflect the genuine character and charm of Kelowna and its surrounding communities.
“I really appreciated how flexible the program was; it allowed me to stay true to myself while spreading my wings and trying new things. The opportunities it brought were exciting and inspiring.”
Looking Ahead
The next chapter of the #exploreKelowna Creator Program recently kicked off, with five new local creators set to explore, capture, and share Kelowna’s essence in their own way. We’re excited to continue building meaningful relationships between creators and our tourism industry, working together to tell the story of the Central Okanagan with creativity, authenticity, and impact.
If you are a tourism-related local business interested in partnering with a future #exploreKelowna creator, we’d love to hear from you—please connect with me at darby@tourismkelowna.com to learn more.
“Tourism Kelowna gives you all the support you need to shine. Stay authentic, follow your passions, and try new things—that’s when the magic happens.”
Stay tuned for the official 2025 creator announcement—and in the meantime, discover highlights from the 2024 cohort’s most engaging content and stories.
