Downtown Kelowna Winter Street Market & Light Up
Winter Street Market brings the community together in downtown Kelowna to celebrate the start of the holiday season. Visitors can browse an array of artisan and market vendors, purchase hot chocolate supporting the Central Okanagan Food Bank, and gather to watch the official Christmas tree light up.
What to Expect
Downtown holiday market featuring local vendors and the official tree lighting.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Kelowna
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Kelowna Association
Food & Drink
Market vendors offer crepes, baked goods, mini donuts and drinks; hot chocolate is by donation, while adult beverages require drink tickets and proof of ID.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday shoppers
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Drink tickets are $6; hot chocolate is available with a minimum $5 donation, or $10 for hot chocolate and a branded mug while supplies last.
- Hours: Market: 12pm–6pm; Light Up: 5:00pm.
- Accessibility: This is an outdoor event; dress for the weather. Public skating depends on weather conditions.
Tips & Advice
- Dress for outdoor conditions, including while waiting for Santa photos inside the tent.
- If you booked a Santa photo, arrive 10 minutes early because late arrivals may lose their appointment slot.
- Treat walk-up Santa photos as uncertain, since booked sessions are full and walk-up photos are not guaranteed.
- Bring skates or rent them on site, and remember that public skating depends on the weather.
- Bring identification if you plan to buy adult beverages; it is required for drink-ticket purchases.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free public skating, weather permitting.
- Santa and the mayor lead the Christmas tree lighting.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything for children to do?
Children can write letters to Santa and receive a reply. The event also has family-friendly activities and skating when weather permits.
Can I get a photo with Santa without booking?
Walk-ups may be accommodated, but a photo is not guaranteed. Booked visitors should arrive 10 minutes before their appointment; late arrivals may be moved to another slot or the walk-up line.
What food and drinks are available?
Food vendors offer crepes, German Christmas baking, waffles, mini donuts, and drinks. Hot chocolate is available by donation, and adult beverages include mulled wine and beer.
Can I skate, and are rentals available?
Free public skating is available at the outdoor rink when weather permits. Skate rentals are available on site.
How can vendors or volunteers take part?
Vendor applications are closed, but applicants can email to join the waitlist. Volunteers can sign up for shifts helping with setup, decorating, activities, and cleanup.
More Christmas Events Near Kelowna
More Christmas Events near Kelowna
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.