Kelowna Earns UNESCO City of Gastronomy Honour

Kelowna, B.C., has become the first city in Canada — and only the third in North America — to earn the prestigious UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation. Announced on October 31, 2025, the recognition celebrates Kelowna’s thriving food culture, agricultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable culinary development. The city’s application, led by the City of Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Tourism Kelowna, and Okanagan College, highlights collaboration between local chefs, farmers, and Indigenous communities. The honour is expected to boost tourism, economic growth, and global recognition while preserving Syilx food traditions and promoting sustainable food systems.