Top 5 Winter Holiday Activities in Kelowna

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It’s finally December and we are already in the Christmas cheer and thinking of ways to fill the weekends in Kelowna this holiday season. We have got a selection of some of the best things to do in Kelowna; events that are offering safe Christmas experiences for families this year. Here are the top 5!

1. Mission Hill Tree Festival

In support of BC Children’s Hospital and their Healthy Minds Centre, Mission Hill Winery is currently underway with its 5th Annual Season of Trees. The event will be running until the 23rd of December. Those guests who book a Season of Trees Tasting on Sundays can also visit the evergreen pop-up market on the Loggia showcasing many local vendors and artisans.

2. Kettle Valley Santa Parade

Lace up your boots to witness the annual “Macy’s Christmas Parade” of Kettle Valley! The Santa Clause Parade will surely impress both children and adults! The parade will set off on the 11th of December from 5 PM via Quilchena Dr and McCarren Ave, continued by a photo session with Santa and friends at the Kettle Valley Public on Main Pub. This annual event is organized in support of the Central Okanagan Food Bank and the Youth Recovery Centre. Don’t miss out on this event!

3. Stuart Park Skating Rink

The Stuart Park skating rink is the centerpiece for the downtown being the city’s most picturesque spot for an outdoor skate. Skating at Stuart Park has been a popular winter tradition in Kelowna every Christmas season. This year, COVID–19 safety measures are taken into consideration, and therefore residents can check the crowd conditions beforehand through a live cam. The rink will be open daily from 6 AM until 11 PM for three months before it shuts down in late February.

4. Festive Market at Quails Gate

Enjoy this holiday season at Okanagan’s, one of the festive vineyards! Make a quick visit to Quails Gate Winery this December. Stay cozy around the fire with some complimentary mulled wine while enjoying the local entertainment and local shopping experience. Head to the artisan market to check out some local cheeses and desserts that could be perfect holiday gifts for your loved ones! The festive shop is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 PM to 8 PM until the 18th of December.

5. Christmas events at O’keefe Ranch

The Victorian Christmas at O’Keefe Ranch returns once again this year! A few minutes drive from the city, the ranch has a lot to offer during the holiday season. You will be welcomed by beautifully decorated heritage buildings, Santa Claus, wagon rides, and live music. Head to the General store for some amazing baked goods and hot drinks. While enjoying Christmas caroling you can roasted chestnuts, Christmas contests, and much more. The ranch will be open for guests on the weekends till 19th December from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Shop Local

This year, due to concerns about the supply chain, online shopping, and lots of delayed shipping experiences, holiday shopping might be a little overwhelming and stressful. Here are some QVA recommendations to shop locally. We wish you a happy and safe holiday season!

 

 

 

 

Hottest Indoor Activities for Winter in Kelowna

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Well, the snow has officially made its appearance. Looking at the weather forecast, it looks like the snow may be here to stay! With the cooler weather, it’s often hard to find things for your little ones to do that’ll keep them out of the cool weather and into warm weather! Yes, we all wish we were going on a hot vacation and sitting on a beach bathing in the warm summer heat. This winter in Kelowna, have a few fun activities up your sleeve for your little ones to do if the weather stops you from going outside!

Create an Indoor movie theatre

three children sitting in indoor movie theatre

Create an indoor movie theatre

Don’t let winter in Kelowna get you down! Create an indoor movie theatre in your Kelowna home. If you are looking for an inexpensive and fun idea for you and the family, this is it! Start by gathering the little ones, this one will for sure help set up! Grab blankets, pillows, and whatever else you may need to assemble this indoor movie theatre. Pick a movie the whole family will love and enjoy this time that you have with your little ones!

Fire and Hot Chocolate

The best part of this weather is cozying up to the fireplace and grabbing a nice hot cup of cocoa! This is probably the hottest indoor activity and we mean it! You can do plenty of things while sitting by the fire with hot chocolate. Play a game with your family, share fun memories of 2017, or just sit and enjoy the beautiful fire and time spent with family in your Kelowna home.

family baking until winter in Kelowna is over

Bake until Winter in Kelowna is over!

Bake until winter in Kelowna is over!

One way to heat your Kelowna home and warm some of your little one’s bellies is by baking! There are so many different things you can bake to keep your home warm and make winter in Kelowna go by quickly! Check out Pinterest for great recipes for holiday baking! This is a fun way to get the family together. Have fun decorating cookies or eating freshly baked brownies… don’t forget to share!

Winter in Kelowna is officially upon us! Don’t let the cool weather get you down. Try one or all of these hottest indoor activities with your family this winter. Enjoy the next few months of cool weather and snow. Spend time with your little ones, enjoy family time, and keep warm in your Kelowna home.

If you are looking to relocate to Kelowna, contact the team at Quincy Vrecko and Associates. Tracey Vrecko is an experienced real estate agent. She has years of experience selling Kelowna real estate and is ready to assist you with your next home purchase. Call Tracey today at 1-778-760-2860!

Okanagan Winery List You Need to Visit!

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The beautiful weather is officially here and for some of us, that means time to start exploring the great outdoors. Whether that be walking along our beautiful Okanagan Lake, enjoying the downtown nightlife, or visiting our spectacular wineries. Did I just say wineries? Sure did! We didn’t get the name “Wine Country” for nothing! If you need something to do this weekend,  here are 5 wineries you need to visit in the Okanagan.

Mission Hill Winery

winery located in the Okanagan

Mission Hill Winery

Family-owned and located in the community near Lakeview Heights, is the spectacular Mission Hill Family Estate. Take in the beautiful breathtaking Okanagan views from the Terrace Restaurant where they source local, sustainable, and seasonal food, or sample some of the award-winning wines with their knowledgeable associates. In 1984 this winery won the coveted Avery Trophy for “Best Chardonnay in the World” at the International Wine and Spirit Competition.

Quail’s Gate Winery

Just a short drive from Mission Hill Winery, you will find the amazing Quail’s Gate Winery. Enjoy the expansive views from the outdoor patio and sip on some sublime wines. The family-owned estate is known for its national wine brand and its exceptional wines that are fresh and rich in color and flavor.

Tantalus Winery

Located in the community of South East Kelowna is this spectacular 75-acre single vineyard site. Known for their 1978 Riesling and 1985 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this winery was established in 2004 by Eric Savics. This winery hosts amazing events, such as a dinner cooked by the Top Chef Canada Alumni.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Purchased by the Cipes Family in 1986, this winery has been practicing organic winemaking. Summerhill Winery has been committed to producing 100% organic wine and in 2012 received Demeter Biodynamic certification. In 2007 the cellar achieved the Certified Organic Status allowing this amazing winery to display the organic logo on their bottles. If you are wondering why this winery chose to go organic check out their website for a short video.

view of Lake Okanagan from winery

Breathtaking views

Sandhill Winery

Located in the community of Downtown Kelowna is this amazing winery that dedicates its techniques to not interfere with the natural flavors of the wine but enhance them. The grapes used for the wine come from six different BC Vineyards which makes this winery very unique. They source out the best and unique combination of soil composition, slope, and sun exposure to ensure they create a wine that is unlike the others.

Needless to say, we are in no shortage of amazing wineries in the Okanagan. These are just 5 wineries you need to visit in the Okanagan this Summer. Aside from having spectacular varieties, awards, and breathtaking views of the Okanagan, these wineries are sure to excite your taste buds.

Luxury Real Estate: 4 Hottest Waterfront Areas in Kelowna

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When it comes to waterfront property, there are many luxury real estate opportunities in the Kelowna area.

Kelowna is ripe with luxury real estate investment opportunities. Of all the high-end properties available on the local market, waterfront continues to be one of the most desirable options.

However, there are several distinct neighborhoods with waterfront on Okanagan Lake, each with its unique characteristics and amenities. Our Kelowna realtors are here to break down the most popular areas to help you choose which one suits your lifestyle.

1. Lower Mission

The Lower Mission offers the type of luxury real estate Kelowna residents and summer homeowners have enjoyed for decades. Located just six kilometers south of Highway 97 (along Pandosy Street or Gordon Drive), the area offers tremendous upscale living opportunities.

The area is ideal for families as there are many schools in the neighborhood, plus there are many sports fields, arenas, and recreation complexes such as:

There are many public beaches in the Lower Mission, as well as a full-scale marina. People investing in Kelowna high-end real estate also love the Lower Mission area because it’s flat. This makes it easy to get around on a bike, or foot. 

There is also an increasing number of beachfront restaurants that make the Lower Mission a fun place to be, day or night.

2. Downtown Kelowna

For those who want to be in the middle of everything, it doesn’t get much better than Downtown Kelowna. While it has everything an active city has to offer year-round, Kelowna truly comes to life when the sun is shining and the temperature rises.

Luxury real estate in Downtown Kelowna has everything you could want in an active urban lifestyle as you are within walking distance of:

  • Restaurants
  • Shopping
  • Pubs
  • Cultural events
  • Nightlife

Plus, you’ll have City Park and its beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and wildlife sanctuary right on your doorstep.

3. Westside Road

If privacy is your thing, then the waterfront properties along Westside Road are sure to please. Located on the west side of Okanagan Lake, across the William R. Bennett Bridge, this region features several Kelowna luxury houses built in natural settings that offer stunning views of the lake. 

Several private gated communities along Westside Road offer exclusive living at its finest. 

4. Lakeview Heights

Stretching from Casa Loma Resort all the way south to Peachland, Lakeview Heights features properties with some of the most spectacular views in the entire Okanagan. The area also boasts many custom-built, award-winning homes that exemplify luxury living.

There are many well-established wineries in the area, including:

Before you hunt for Kelowna luxury homes, read our post: 6 Tips for Buying Kelowna Luxury Real Estate on the Water.

Are you searching for luxury real estate on the waterfront in Kelowna? Call the Kelowna realtors at Vrecko & Associates. We’ll show you the top properties in the most desirable areas to suit your lifestyle.