News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Country Music Awards Week to be Hosted in Kelowna September 2025
Canada’s biggest night in country music is coming to Kelowna in September 2025 for the first time ever during the Canadian Country Music Award Week.
Core to the efforts of the CCMA organization is Country Music Week. It is the focal point for the organization and its members, providing professional development opportunities, showcasing slots, and an opportunity to heighten awareness and increase exposure for Canada’s country music artists.
Hosting this event offers an exciting economic opportunity for the local community during less traveled months. According to Tourism Kelowna, ”Country Music Week 2025 is forecast to generate over 2,000 room nights (not counting fans or families), resulting in an estimated economic impact of over $11 million in Kelowna and BC.“
2025 is going to be an exciting year. If you are interested in attending events during the Country Music Award Week, sign up at the CCMA website to be the first to receive presale access.
New Hotel and Parkade Coming to Kelowna
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) will welcome the Sutton Place Hotel and a new parking structure next to the airport terminal.
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) will welcome the Sutton Place Hotel and a new parking structure next to the airport terminal in the next couple of years. The new Sutton Place Hotel will be six stories, adding 245 hotel rooms to the region.
Among the amenities planned, the hotel dining room will offer locally inspired cuisine, offering guests a taste of the Thompson Okanagan. It will also feature a penthouse lounge, a fitness centre, and conference rooms. The Sutton Place Hotel plans to offer valet, bell-hop, and concierge services. The parking structure beside the hotel will add 1,000 parking spots to the airport campus.
Conceptual Mockup of the Sutton Place Hotel and Parkade at YLW
The Sutton Place Hotel project is overseen and managed by Northland Properties, a Canadian-owned hospitality company. The completed Sutton Place Hotel at Kelowna International Airport will be their fifth addition to the Sutton Place Hotel brand, joining Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, and Revelstoke Mountain Resort.
The addition of this hotel to the Thompson Okanagan will provide different advantages to travellers coming to the region. The close proximity to YLW will make things like connection flights and early or late flight times much more convenient to get to for those travelling for business purposes, while the amenities of the planned Sutton Place Hotel will offer a luxurious experience for tourist travel, setting the Thompson Okanagan apart as a premier destination.
New 3D Virtual Tours Highlight Accessible Features at Tourism Venues in the Thompson Okanagan
TOTA and Spinal Cord Injury BC have partnered to share 22 Virtual Venue Tours of Thompson Okanagan accommodation and attractions. The virtual tours showcase priority accessible features to help people easily plan a visit based on their specific requirements.
View tours: https://ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours
Kelowna, B.C. - Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC), and their Access BC program have launched Virtual Venue Tours, a mapping project to improve access and inclusion for people exploring the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. 22 tours are available on ThompsonOkanagan.com as of March 2023 showcasing priority accessible features of various accommodations and attractions in Kelowna, Kamloops, Penticton, Naramata, Keremeos, Cawston, and Chase.
The virtual platform is easy to navigate on desktop and mobile devices, allowing people to explore venues and determine whether accessible features meet their specific requirements. When planning a visit, trip planners can explore the venues virtually and make informed decisions about which ones to experience in person.
The Virtual Venue Tours project was created for the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which supports businesses to improve access and inclusion for visitors and staff through various services; with support from the Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative (TRTDI) fund from the Province of BC.
"This project will help improve access and inclusion for all visitors to the Thompson Okanagan region. We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the beauty of the region, and this program will make it easier for people to do so," said TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews.
At launch, these tours showcase the accessible features of the following venues who have participated in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program or are committed to access and inclusion:
Chase:
Kamloops:
Penticton:
The 3D images were created by Jody Wall Photography, a BC-based photographer and are hosted on the TourMkr platform.
More virtual tours will be added as funding becomes available.
To view the tours, visit ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours
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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.
As a Biosphere Certified Destination, TOTA is committed to working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including goals related to access and inclusion, such as “Reduced Inequalities” and “Sustainable Cities & Communities.” becoming a world-renowned accessible tourism destination and to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Learn more at TOTABC.org.
About Spinal Cord Injury BC:
Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) is a non-profit organization based in British Columbia, Canada, that provides support and resources for individuals who have sustained a spinal cord injury, as well as their families and caregivers. The organization was founded in 1957 and has since grown to become a leading resource for those affected by spinal cord injury.
SCI BC offers a wide range of programs and services, including peer support, information and referral, community outreach, and advocacy. One of the key initiatives of SCI BC is the development of accessible technology and equipment for people with spinal cord injuries, with a focus on enhancing mobility and independence. The organization also provides education and awareness programs to promote understanding and inclusion in the community.
Learn more at SCI-BC.ca.
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Thompson Okanagan Communities Receive Over $5.5 million in Funding from PacifiCan to Revitalize Public Spaces and Enhance Tourism Experiences
PacifiCan funding for 17 projects in the Thompson Okanagan through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and the Tourism Relief Fund. Communities benefiting from funding include Kelowna, Penticton, Peachland, Vernon, Summerland, Keremeos, and Osoyoos.
TOTA received funding to conduct sustainability assessments for tourism businesses to help them implement sustainable and environmentally responsible operational practices. More details will be shared shortly.
The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $5.5 million in PacifiCan funding for 17 projects in the Thompson Okanagan through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and the Tourism Relief Fund.
TOTA received funding to conduct sustainability assessments for tourism businesses to help them implement sustainable and environmentally responsible operational practices. More details will be shared shortly.
Upgrading existing infrastructure and building new public assets will mean British Columbians will have better access to recreational programs and facilities; these projects will grow economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve community wellness.
The funding announcement builds on the recent openings of PacifiCan offices in Kelowna and Cranbrook that will help support local economic development for British Columbians in the Southern Interior.
Thompson Okanagan Projects
Communities benefiting from funding include Kelowna, Penticton, Peachland, Vernon, Summerland, Keremeos, and Osoyoos.
Canada Community Revitalization Fund
City of Kelowna
$750,000
Funding will go towards adding accessibility features to Pandosy Waterfront Park in Kelowna, including a floating dock, pedestrian lighting, wayfinding signage, and mobile infrastructure.
City of Penticton
$750,000
Funding will go towards building a new lake-to-lake bike route between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake. The safe and dedicated cycling route and pedestrian sidewalk will allow easy public access across the city.
$200,000
Funding will go towards the construction of two accessible community washrooms at Penticton’s Kiwanis Park Safety Village and Riverside Park.
City of Vernon
$639,000
Funding will be used for the continued development of Civic Memorial Park. Project activities include upgrading an existing building to improve energy efficiency and the creation of accessible public washrooms and a community meeting space.
City of West Kelowna
$416,250
Funding will go towards revitalizing four community parks in West Kelowna: Beechnut, Pritchard, Paula and Shetler Park. Upgrades include landscape and parking enhancements, and the installation of new playground equipment, volleyball courts and picnic areas.
District of Peachland
$53,188
Funding will be used to expand and improve the accessibility of multi-use pathways that link Heritage Park to downtown Peachland. Project activities include installing new streetlights, expanding the parking lot, and adding safe trail connections and crosswalks.
O’Keefe Ranch and interior Heritage Society
$94,915
Funding will help create ten glamping accommodation units at the O’Keefe Ranch Historic Site in Vernon. The project will leverage green technology and improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
Osoyoos Museum Society
$310,530
Funding will go towards redeveloping the lower level of the Osoyoos Museum to include cultural artifact displays and multi-purpose work rooms to host community gatherings and events.
Tourism Relief Fund
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
$500,000
Funding will go towards conducting sustainability assessments for rural tourism businesses in British Columbia to help them adopt and implement sustainable and environmentally responsible operational practices.
Argus Properties Ltd.
$99,999
Funding will help build a floating platform and ramp extension for Hotel Eldorado’s marina dock on Okanagan Lake. Improvements will expand existing floatplane services, bringing visitors from Vancouver to Kelowna.
British Columbia Snowmobile Federation
$500,000
Funding will go towards creating a recreational snowmobile trail program, which will support snowmobile clubs in the province and enhance tourism offerings.
Carpe Diem Tours Ltd.
$85,000
Funding will go towards purchasing a new vehicle and facilitate further development of winery tours targeted to francophone and other visitors to the Okanagan.
Elevation Outdoors Experiential Programs Association
$219,600
Funding will go towards expanding operations at Kelowna Bike Rentals, including the purchase of 92 new bikes including adaptive e-bikes, mountain and city bikes, and cycling accessories.
ERTCU Travel Group Ltd
$99,999
Funding will help develop and market a series of new RV tours across rural British Columbia, targeting the international market.
Renedian Adventures Ltd.
$99,999
Funding will go towards purchasing four motorcycles, a van and trailer and hiring additional staff to increase motorcycle tour services in Kelowna.
Vernon Winter Carnival Society
$125,000
Funding will go towards new activities that expand the Vernon Winter Carnival, a 10-day winter festival featuring over 100 local events.
Wine Country Studios
$56,960
Funding will go towards expanding and promoting unique Metis art workshops and classes to tourists visiting West Kelowna.
For the full list of projects, please see the press release and backgrounder.
Shuswap and Kelowna Listed in Leading Places: The 100 Most Loved Travel Destinations Around the World
The Tourism Sentiment Index has released a report, Leading Places: The 100 Most Loved Destinations Around the World for 2021. For the first time ever, destinations around the world have been ranked to uncover those that are truly most loved, according to the Tourism Sentiment Score. To produce the rankings, Tourism Sentiment Index conducted a study of a massive volume of online data – more than 1.6 billion online conversations and content pieces publicly available about 21,330 global destinations.
In the Thompson Okanagan, the following destinations were in the Top 100:
96. Kelowna
99. Shuswap
Congratulations to Kelowna and the Shuswap for earning some of the world's most positive feedback and content in 2021.
The Tourism Sentiment Index has released a report, Leading Places: The 100 Most Loved Destinations Around the World for 2021.
For the first time ever, destinations around the world have been ranked to uncover those that are truly most loved, according to the Tourism Sentiment Score. To produce the rankings, Tourism Sentiment Index conducted a study of a massive volume of online data – more than 1.6 billion online conversations and content pieces publicly available about 21,330 global destinations.
In the Thompson Okanagan, the following destinations were in the Top 100:
96. Kelowna
99. Shuswap
Congratulations to Kelowna and the Shuswap for earning some of the world's most positive feedback and content in 2021.
Making Your Space Accessible to All
Creating an accessible and inclusive space doesn't need to be a daunting or expensive task. Upside Cidery quickly made their already inclusive space even more so by creating tables that are accessible to all in their cidery. Included are some tips on where and how to start making your space accessible.
Accessible Business Feature: Upside Cidery
Creating a space for all was the inspiration behind the opening of Upside Cidery. A space that welcomes anyone from families with children to business professionals, and everyone in between. They even welcome dogs into their space.
Upside Cidery is an organic cidery located on 18 acres of land on Gale Road behind Route 97 in Kelowna. This land was originally used to crush gravel for the building of the highway when it was first purchased in 1970 by the co-owner, Mike Large’s father. Both owners, Mike Large and Isaac Potash, grew up farming with Isaac’s family farm being one of the first organic farms.
The building that houses Upside Cidery was created in a way that upon arrival, is easy for everyone to access and move around. They have a paved and flat parking lot with a designated accessible stall and three stalls along the side of the building that can accommodate a vehicle with a side lift or ramp. Their open floor concept allows for lots of space to maneuver around in the cidery and the washrooms are very accessible.
Isaac Potach
Having only opened in June of 2019, the cidery is very successful and has become a very popular hangout for locals. The atmosphere is extremely welcoming and the staff are very friendly and accommodating. With the vision of everyone being welcome and able to enjoy Upside Cidery, Isaac was eager to do what he could when TOTA Accessibility specialist, Sonja Gaudet, brought to his attention, on her visit to the cidery, that there was no accessible seating in the building, only high tops and picnic tables.
“Making your space accessible doesn’t have to be expensive or daunting.”
Isaac immediately called up his builder to create two tables that were wheelchair accessible and comfortable for anyone that struggles to sit at high top tables. One of these tables is able to be moved inside and out.
Without hesitation and within a couple of weeks, Upside was able to create a space that truly is for everyone. Along with the accessible seating, they are now planning to design a tasting bar that will be at an accessible height for seated tastings by next year.
Creating a space for all, although may seem initially overwhelming, is not a complicated task. In order for people with mobility requirements to participate and experience the services and products available in the tourism space, there are three accessible features to address first. These features will help to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience, worthy of several repeat visits and recommendations to MANY friends and family members! Keep it simple and start with these aspects to make your space accessible to all.
Simple, but Key Priorities
Accessible Parking
Paved or hard packed crush grade gravel surface.
Designate accessible parking spaces with:
Clearly marked lines.
Accessible parking signage on a post at the front of the parking space.
Ensure spaces are wide enough to accommodate a vehicle that may have a side lift or ramp - 3.9 meters wide.
For gravel surface parking lots:
Designate accessible parking closest to the main entrance access route.
Using spray paint is very effective for marking parking space lines.
When your able to re-paint your parking lot lines, here are best practice recommendations - Accessible Parking Stall
Main Entrance Access
Level/minimal slope access route to the main entrance.
Curb cut access from the parking area to the main entrance access route
If main entrance access is via stairs - ramp access is required.
Automatic/low touch/no touch main entrance door - minimum width 81.5 cm
OR easy push/pull main entrance door.
If applicable, loosen tension on overhead automatic door tension bar/closer unit.
Weather permitting, keeping the main entrance door in the open position is a temporary option.
Level/no step door thresholds.
Threshold ramps are a very inexpensive and easy way to eliminate a step-up door threshold that you may have anywhere throughout your site.
Accessible Washrooms
Ensure your washroom is wheelchair accessible.
Automatic, low touch or easy push/pull door - minimum width 81.5 cm.
Grab bars beside the toilet.
Roll under sink vanity height - minimum 68.5 cm / maximum 86.5 cm
152 cm floor space free of any obstruction.
An easy initial adjustment to allow for more space inside the washroom, is to ensure that the swing of the door swings out. This is also for safety reasons, in case someone were to fall up against the door inside the washroom and access was required.
Until a full renovation is possible, work with the washroom you presently have to re-configure, adjust and modify as best as possible to the best practice recommendations found here - Accessible Washroom
Further Recommendations
If your experience offers food & beverage service - ensure you have lower height tasting bars & table options for wheelchair users and individuals who require or prefer to be seated while eating and/or tasting.
Minimum height - 68.5 cm / floor to bottom of surface
Maximum height - 86.5 cm / floor to bottom of surface
Learn more about Accessibility Recommendations
Remember, accessibility and inclusion is so much more than what we build into our physical environment. It is a collective positive energy and attitude that can be felt upon entering any environment. It transcends directly from the heart and creates a feeling of belonging and freedom. This powerful and open mindset towards full integration inspires meaningful and authentic connections with one another, enriching the lives of EVERYONE along its path.
TOTA’s Accessibility video, Accessibility in a New Light, gives us a better understanding of the importance and positive impact accessibility and inclusivity in our community can have on individuals.
About the Author
Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. As a Brand Ambassador for the Thompson Okanagan region, she hopes to be able to showcase the region’s local businesses and natural attractions to encourage others to come and enjoy them in a safe and sustainable way.
About the Author
Sonja Gaudet is a retired 3 X Paralympic Gold Medalist and most recently a Canadian Order of Sport Inductee 2020/21. She lives in Vernon with her husband Dan and two adult children, Alysha and Colten. Sonja has a passion in locating and creating accessible experiences in the Okanagan region. Some of her adventures include kayaking, exploring the accessible hiking trails with her dog Lina, and enjoying Charcuterie with her most recently discovered favorite glass of red wine, more than likely from somewhere in the South Okanagan or Similkameen region.
CedarCreek Estate Winery Wins ‘Canadian Winery of the Year’
CedarCreek Estate Winery
Acclaimed Okanagan Winery also Celebrates a Prestigious International Riesling Award
Kelowna, British Columbia (December 18, 2019) – CedarCreek Estate Winery is the winner of the ‘Canadian Winery of the Year’ title at the 2019 InterVin International Wine Awards, with more than 1,100 wines entered from 15 countries. This is the third ‘Canadian Winery of the Year’ title for CedarCreek, and the 2019 honour caps off a momentous year as CedarCreek celebrates some of the most noteworthy achievements in its 32-year history.
The InterVin International Wine Awards recognize and celebrate the very best wines available to Canadian consumers. The competition’s rigorous judging process is led by some of the most respected wine writers, educators and sommeliers in the country. CedarCreek won a total of 15 medals for its portfolio of premium wines across virtually every category in the competition. In addition to the coveted ‘Canadian Winery of the Year’ title, CedarCreek also won Gold Medals for its 2018 Platinum Block 3 Riesling and its 2017 Platinum Haynes Creek Syrah.
“As one of the original eight wineries in the Okanagan Valley, CedarCreek has championed quality winemaking practices and a vineyard-specific focus from the start,” noted Christopher Waters, Head Judge of the InterVin International Wine Awards. “If one were to look for a winery that’s emblematic of the dynamic changes afoot in the Okanagan Valley, CedarCreek’s renewed focus is a great case study.”
‘World’s Best Semi-Dry Riesling’ Trophy
CedarCreek is also making its presence known on the world stage with a key win at the Canberra International Riesling Challenge in Australia, the largest and most competitive Riesling competition in the Southern Hemisphere. At this year’s competition, CedarCreek’s 2018 Estate Riesling won the esteemed Wolf Blass Trophy for ‘World’s Best Semi-Dry Riesling’, and was awarded a score of 97 points – topping its category and beating out more than 500 Riesling wines entered from nine countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, and China.
Commenting on the awards, CedarCreek Winemaker Taylor Whelan stated: “We’re in a constant state of evolution here. Our team continues to push the boundaries of winemaking and viticulture even further with sustainable practices that will improve the quality of our entire portfolio of wines. These awards clearly underscore that we are on the right path with our organic commitment in our vineyards and at the winery.”
Commitment to 100% Organic Farming
CedarCreek wines are taking their place alongside the best in the world as a result of a bold and long-term vision to convert 100% of the winery’s vineyards to organic farming. The results of this commitment are evident in the vineyards, with soils that are more alive, vines that are healthier and stronger, and grapes that have increased varietal character.
The 2019 growing season marks the third year of CedarCreek’s transition to organic farming. The winery’s Home Block vineyard and winery have now achieved official organic certification. The 50-acre Home Block vineyard — originally planted in the 1930s — produces several certified organic wines from the current harvest, including the Estate Riesling and Estate Pinot Noir. By 2021, all of the wines made by CedarCreek will be produced organically.
About CedarCreek Estate Winery
From its 50-acre property in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, CedarCreek Estate Winery is building on more than three decades of winemaking, and defining a new chapter with bright, expressive north Okanagan Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and aromatic white wines. The family-owned winery produces certified organic wines from its 100% estate-grown fruit. The year-round tasting room and Home Block restaurant, housed in contemporary farmhouse buildings crafted from fieldstone and 100-year-old reclaimed barn wood, offer visitors an exceptional experience in a serene natural setting. For more information, visit
cedarcreek.bc.ca.