West Kelowna is a sight to behold at Christmas, with Mount Boucherie dusted with snow and Brown Street in downtown Westbank all lit up with twinkling lights. Why not book into the Best Western Wine Country hotel in West Kelowna and shop at one of our many fine local stores, gaze in awe at the Festival of Trees at Mission Hill Estate Winery, or visit Gellatly Nut Farm for some winter magic. Top it off with a delicious meal paired with world-class wines at one of the Westside’s many wineries when you book one of our Okanagan wine tour packages. There’s so much to do to get you into the Christmas spirit! Here are some events to put on your to-do list:
WHERE TREETOPS GLISTEN
Mission Hill Family Estate winery is a must-see at any time of year, but it is particularly beautiful at Christmastime. That’s because the winery’s massive interior and tasting room turns into an enchanted forest at this time of year. Locals and guests on Okanagan wine tours are welcome to view the holiday display and make a donation to vote for their favourite decorated tree, with proceeds going to BC Children’s Hospital. The Festival of Trees continues at Mission Hill until Jan. 4. Daily hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day).
WALK IN A WINTER WONDERLAND
A popular event on the West Kelowna tourism calendar, Winter Magic at Gellatly Nut Farm Regional Park, takes place Dec. 15 and 16 from 4-7 p.m. Stroll the orchard to take in the dazzling light display; visit the Santa Bus (on Saturday night from 5-7 p.m.), and listen to carolers sing on high while warming up by the fire pit. Make sure to take a tour of the West Kelowna heritage site’s Heritage House and purchase some nuts, grown locally at the farm.
MISTLETOE AND WINE
A unique event that involves crafting with alcohol, Volcanic Hills Estate Winery on Mt. Boucherie is holding a Sip and Paint Alcohol Ornaments as part of its Inspired Food and Wine Series, Dec. 15 from 1-4 p.m. Participants will make 3 alcohol ink glass ornaments and enjoy a free tasting from Volcanic Hills.
A-WASSAILING WE’LL GO
If you can’t get through the season without hearing all your favourite Christmas carols, there are a number of concerts taking place close to our Westbank hotel. Kelowna performances include:
Breath of Winter by the Phoenix Rising Singers, Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at Unitarian Fellowship Hall (Bertram Street and Cawston Ave.)
Christmas with the Kelowna City Concert Band, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m., at First Lutheran Church (4091 Lakeshore Ave.)
Okanagan Symphony presents Yuletide Tales, Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m., at the Kelowna Community Theatre.
Jazz Café Kelowna presents… Christmas Presence, Dec. 23, 6:30 p.m., Benvoulin Heritage Church, 2279 Benvoulin Rd.
Looking for one of the best West Kelowna hotel deals? Why not book a West Kelowna hotel wine package and read our blog on What to Pack When Staying at Hotels in West Kelowna: Fall/Winter Edition.
The Best Western Wine Country Hotels and Suites offers a wide array of well-appointed rooms and suites to make your stay in West Kelowna one to remember. Enjoy our complimentary hot breakfast buffet, indoor swimming pool with waterslide and hot tub, and 24-hour fitness room.
