Perched right along the shores of sparkling Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is well-known as a major wine and food destination, home to over 40 wineries and countless orchards. In fact, it's the birthplace of BC wine!

While the lake, abundance of wineries, and incredible food scene are certainly reasons enough to visit Kelowna, they're just the beginning. The city also has fantastic shopping all year long, and particularly during the bustling holiday season.

Whether you want to treat yourself, are looking for something to do on the occasional rainy day, or searching for that perfect gift, you'll find it in Kelowna's shopping scene. You should have no problem checking items off your list with this holiday gift guide!

Downtown Kelowna

Downtown Kelowna, with Bernard Avenue as its nucleus, is a true shopping mecca. Known as The District on Bernard, this lively, walkable area is home to a myriad of fashion retailers and specialty stores (over 70, to be more specific), as well as charming coffee shops, chic eateries, and salons. Best of all, the district is condensed into a relatively small area spanning just a few blocks, so you can easily hit every store and local gift shop on your wishlist. It's also within a 15-minute walk of The Royal Kelowna.

A few local favourite shops within The District on Bernard include:

Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com - Pamela Vaughn

The Artful Hand - One of the best gift shops in Kelowna, featuring handmade items from over 100 local Okanagan artists and artisans
Mosaic Books - The largest independent bookstore in the entire Okanagan Valley, with giftable items like games, puzzles, socks, and stickers, in addition to books
1000 Palms Swimwear Boutique - Everything ladies need to achieve the perfect "lake life" look, with lots of hard-to-find specialty sizes

Bonus: parking in downtown lots is free on weekends.

Pandosy

Just south of downtown Kelowna lies the picturesque neighbourhood of Pandosy. Not only does the community have dozens of colourful, splurge-worthy shops in Pandosy Village, but it's also home to beaches, parks, and great restaurants. You could easily spend a whole day here, hopping from store to store and taking breaks for drinks, snacks, and lake views in between. The Book Bin and Lois Lane Warehouse are popular go-to's for used books and antiques, respectively, and you can't miss family-owned sister shops Lily Blue and Blue Ginger.

Orchard Park Shopping Centre

If you prefer the convenience of a shopping mall, Orchard Park Shopping Centre has you covered. Just a short 10-minute drive inland from downtown and The Royal Kelowna, Orchard Park is a traditional mall with nearly 200 popular retailers.

You'll find large department stores such as Hudson's Bay alongside Old Navy, Gap, Best Buy, Bath & Body Works, Sephora, and local specialty shops. The mall has a private parenting room with key-only access (inquire at Guest Services), as well as complimentary wheelchairs and motorized scooters available for those who may need them.

Kelowna Farmers' & Crafters' Market

Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com - Kerri-Jo Stewart

Thanks to the region's unique geography and microclimates, Kelowna is famous for its fresh produce, flowers, and of course, wine. Shop these goodies year-round at the Kelowna Farmers' & Crafters' Market, about as literal as you can get for a local gift shop.

In addition to food items and flowers, vendors at the market sell a variety of handmade goods. These include bath and body products, home decor, jewelry, artwork, Kelowna souvenirs, and more—all items essential to any gift guide.

Note that while the farmers' market is open year-round, it has a different location and schedule in the winter season. From November through March, the market moves indoors to the Parkinson Rec Centre, and transitions to Saturdays only from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. From April through October, the market is twice a week on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. That market is held outdoors, on the corner of Dilworth and Springfield.

Seasonal Markets

Aside from all of its year-round staples for shopping, Kelowna has a unique winter option: seasonal markets. Also often called Christmas or winter markets, these special events add a festive, European-style twist to shopping. Plus, they offer the opportunity to pick up some truly unique gifts you won't find anywhere else! There are several to check out, including at many local Kelowna wineries. Here are a few long-standing annual markets.

Winter Street Market & Light Up - Free, family-friendly celebration that serves as the official kick-off for the holiday season, when downtown Kelowna and its main Christmas tree get lit up, plus there are dozens of vendors and live music
Fall Into Winter Market at Sandhill Winery - Sample market-exclusive wines, listen to live music, and shop from a nicely curated selection of local vendors on weekends leading up to Christmas
Winter Night Market at Lake Country Public Art Gallery - 15+ vendors, local art for sale, fire pits where you can roast your own s'mores, a photo booth, food trucks, and children's areas

Catch up on R&R at The Royal Kelowna

One of just a few hotels right downtown, The Royal Kelowna offers unmatched convenience and proximity to the best shopping in town—not to mention the best restaurants, wineries, and beaches, too.

After a fun-filled, busy day of shopping and wine tasting, there's nothing quite like coming back to lake views and a rooftop infinity pool, plus a jetted tub in your suite.

Book your stay today, and take advantage of special packages and Stay | Well amenities, including complimentary bicycles, umbrellas, and discounted rates with our preferred local partners.

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