Be In The Know

December 09,2025

Winter Activities in Kelowna: Hidden Gems and Local Businesses Worth Exploring

 

Winter in the Okanagan isn’t just about the ski hills.

While we all love a powder day at Big White, those of us lucky enough to call Kelowna home know that the valley offers a different kind of magic when the temperature drops. As custom home builders, we believe that loving where you live extends beyond your four walls—it’s about connecting with your community.

If you’re looking to shake up your winter routine, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite local “hidden gems.” From cozy workshops to family-run vineyards, here is how to make the most of the season in our beautiful backyard.

 

1. Snowshoeing: Gear Up Local

Skip the big box stores and head to the local experts to get fitted for an adventure. Snowshoeing is one of the most accessible winter sports for families and a fantastic way to see the trails you hike in summer from a new perspective.

Where to go: Play It Again Sports offers seasonal and daily rentals if you aren’t ready to buy. For a full day out, head up to Telemark Nordic Club in West Kelowna. It’s often quieter than the big resorts and offers rentals right on-site with over 60km of stunning trails.

Play It Again Sports

 

Telemark Nordic Club

 

2. Community Ice Rinks (Beyond Stuart Park)

We all love the lights at Stuart Park, but for a true community feel (and a little more elbow room), explore the neighborhood rinks.

The Hidden Gem: Joe Rich Community Rink. Located a short drive up Hwy 33, this outdoor rink is maintained by the community and feels like a scene from a holiday movie. It’s perfect for a game of shinny or a quiet skate with the kids.

Indoor Option: If the weather is too biting, check out the public skate times at Rutland Arena. It has a great local vibe and is a staple for many hockey families in town.

Joe Rich Community Hall

 

Rutland Arena

 

3. Winter Winery Experiences

The vines may be dormant, but the tasting rooms are alive and cozy. Winter is arguably the best time to visit local wineries—the crowds are gone, and the experiences are more intimate.

Fireside & Fondue: Quails’ Gate Estate Winery is famous for its Old Vines Restaurant, but their winter après offerings (often featuring fondue and fireside tastings) are a must-do date night.

Dome Dining: For something truly unique, Frind Estate Winery in West Kelowna offers “Dome Dining.” You can enjoy a meal in a heated, transparent dome right on the beach, watching the snow fall over Okanagan Lake.

Family-Centered: Grizzli Winery is fantastic for families, hosting an art gallery and frequent community events throughout the winter season.

Quails’ Gate Estate Winery

 

Frind Estate Winery

 

Grizzli Winery

 

4. Get Creative: Local Craft Workshops

Winter is the perfect time to work with your hands. Whether you want to make custom decor for your new home or just try something new, these local spots are incredibly welcoming.

Candle Making: The Kelowna Candle Factory on Ellis Street isn’t just a shop; they offer beeswax and soy candle-making workshops. It’s a warm, fragrant way to spend an afternoon.

Pottery: Check out Pearl & Fern in West Kelowna. This beautiful studio offers workshops where you can get behind the wheel and throw your own clay—perfect for crafting that custom mug for your morning coffee.

Drop-In Crafts: Studio on Water in the cultural district offers “big table” drop-in crafts, making it easy to get creative without a long-term commitment.

Kelowna Candle Factory

 

Pearl & Fern

 

Studio on Water

 

5. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

Sometimes we forget to enjoy the things visitors travel here for. Several local tour companies run specialized winter experiences that take the stress out of planning.

Winter Wine Tours: Sagebrush Tours offers excellent winter-specific packages and ski shuttles.

Adventure & Wine: Roots & Vines Tour Co. (formerly Distinctly Kelowna Tours) runs a specialized “Winter Wine Tour” that combines a morning of snowshoeing or skiing with an elegant afternoon of wine tasting—the perfect balance of active and relaxing.
 

Sagebrush Tours

 

Roots & Vines Tour Co.

 

Planning Your Weekend?

At 3rd Generation Homes, we know that a great home is the foundation for a great life. We hope this list inspires you to get out and explore the incredible businesses that make the Okanagan such a wonderful place to live.

Did we miss your favorite winter spot? Let us know on Instagram or Facebook!