Kelowna’s Newest Local Newsletter Has Arrived 🍷

Spring is in full swing, the lake is calling, and our city is making serious noise on the national stage. From an NHL signing to a major provincial investment right here in Kelowna — there's a lot to celebrate this week. Let's get into it.

☀ Good News Only

🏆 Kelowna named Year of Sport

Mayor Tom Dyas officially proclaimed 2026 the Year of Sport in Kelowna on May 11. The city is set to host the Memorial Cup, Kelowna Hoopfest including a Vancouver Bandits game, two BC Lions games as part of Touchdown Kelowna, the BC Summer Games, and Skate Canada International — all within the same calendar year. It's a remarkable run of major events, and it's just getting started.
Source: Kelowna Capital News

🏒 Rockets captain signs NHL deal

Kelowna Rockets captain Carson Wetsch has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the San Jose Sharks. The 20-year-old right winger recorded a career-high 72 points in 65 games with Kelowna this season. He'll suit up at the Memorial Cup right here at Prospera Place before making his leap to the professional ranks — a proud moment for the Rockets organization and the whole city.
Source: Kelowna Capital News

🌲 West Kelowna lands major forestry investment

The province is investing $2 million to launch Make More in BC, a new initiative creating regional economic hubs to protect forestry workers and generate new jobs. Gorman Brothers Lumber in West Kelowna has been named the first Make More in BC economic hub. Gorman employs around 1,000 people across its divisions and exports to 35 countries — a true valley success story getting well-deserved provincial recognition.
Source: KelownaNow

⛵ Cook Road boat launch open for summer

It's officially lake season. The City of Kelowna confirmed on May 11 that annual dredging work at the Cook Road boat launch is complete, clearing sediment buildup and ensuring full access for boaters. A future project will add new slips, a public pier, and shoreline enhancements at Truswell Park. For now — load up the boat.
Source: Kelowna Capital News

🏛️ New downtown plaza under construction

Construction is underway on Ellis Plaza, a new $475,000 public space at the corner of Harvey Avenue and Ellis Street. The city describes it as a welcoming gateway to Kelowna's Cultural District — a vibrant six-block area featuring venues, galleries, theatres, museums, and public art. A beautiful new gathering space coming to the heart of downtown.
Source: Castanet

📆 This Week in Kelowna

NICO (CDN) — Live at SOMA Cider
SOMA Cider, Kelowna · Friday May 15

Montreal electronic producer NICO kicks off your long weekend at one of Kelowna's best intimate venues. A great way to start the Victoria Day weekend right.

Happening now - Free!
Okanagan Sun Spring Camp
Apple Bowl, Kelowna · May 15–17 · Open to the public

The back-to-back BCFC champion Okanagan Sun open their 2026 Spring Camp with over 100 players competing for roster spots. Free to watch and a great way to spend a long weekend afternoon at the Apple Bowl.

Mark Your Calendar
Memorial Cup 2026 - One Week Away
Prospera Place, Kelowna · May 22–31

The Memorial Cup arrives in Kelowna in just one week. Ten days of world-class junior hockey, free street programming, and downtown energy unlike anything we've seen before. Tickets are nearly gone — act now if you haven't already.

Last Chance
High Tea at Oak + Cru
1310 Water Street, Kelowna · Through May 15 · 11am–4pm · $45/person

One of Kelowna's most elegant dining experiences wraps up its spring run this Friday. Reservation required, minimum 4 guests. A lovely treat before it's gone for the season. https://oakandcru.com/

Victoria Day Long Weekend — Get Outside
Valley-wide · May 17–19

The first long weekend of the season is here. Hiking, paddleboarding, winery patios, and lakeside everything — Kelowna is at peak spring beauty right now. No excuses needed.

Asian Heritage Month — Chinatown Tours
Okanagan Heritage Museum, Kelowna · May 16

Part of the 15th anniversary celebrations of Asian Heritage Month in the Okanagan. A fascinating piece of local history worth exploring right here in Kelowna.

Multicultural Community Showcase
Kelowna Event Centre · May 31

Mark your calendar — a celebration of cultural diversity coming to the Kelowna Event Centre at the end of the month. A great community event to look forward to.

📍 Worth the short drive — Creekside Theatre, Lake Country

Just 20 minutes from downtown Kelowna, Creekside Theatre at 10241 Bottom Wood Lake Rd in Winfield is one of the Okanagan's most intimate and beautifully run live music venues. This Sunday, May 17, JUNO-nominated artist Bobby Bazini plays there at 7pm for just $39. If you've never been, this is the perfect introduction — the kind of show you'll talk about for weeks.

Reach a growing number of Kelowna locals every Thursday at 6am. Please contact us at [email protected] for more info.

😄 Joke of the Week

Q: Why did the Kelowna tourist bring a ladder to the winery?

A: Because they heard the wine was on another level. 🍷

🏠 Home Tip of the Week

Victoria Day weekend is the traditional time to plant in the Okanagan. Soil temps are finally right — get your tomatoes, peppers, and herbs in the ground this weekend.

Tip: Wait until after May 18 to be safe from late frosts.