Kelowna's summer of 2025 is packed with vibrant festivals, cultural celebrations, and outdoor adventures. Here's a guide to the most anticipated events that promise to make this season unforgettable.
June
Kelowna Pride Month (May 30 – June 30)
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Kelowna Pride Month 2025 embraces the theme "Rise and Resist." The month-long festivities include the Pride March & Festival on May 31, the Fruitcake After Party featuring Bif Naked, and the Trans & Enby March & Festival on June 20. The celebration concludes with the 2nd Annual Two-Spirit Powwow on June 28, highlighting Indigenous 2SLGBTQIA+ voices.
Wine Country Half Marathon (June 14)
The Kelowna Wine Country Half Marathon is set for June 14, 2025, offering runners a scenic journey through the Okanagan Valley. Participants can choose from 5km, 10km, or 21.1km distances, traversing routes that wind through vineyards, along the Mission Creek Greenway, and conclude at Downtown Kelowna's Waterfront Park. The course features an elevation gain of approximately 171 meters, offering a mix of rolling hills and flat terrain. Following the race, runners can enjoy a post-run festival featuring local wine, beer, cider, and live music. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual run option is available from June 1 to 30, allowing participants to complete their chosen distance remotely and receive a t-shirt and finisher medal. Registration is limited to 1,800 runners to ensure a quality experience and minimize environmental impact.
Rotary Summer Kickoff Festival (June 14)
City Park hosts the Rotary Summer Kickoff Festival, a free, family-friendly event featuring $5 burgers, live music, an artisan market, and a dedicated kids' play zone. It's a perfect way to welcome the summer season with a sense of community spirit.
July
Celebrate Canada Day (July 1)
Downtown Kelowna transforms into a hub of patriotism with over 50 family-friendly activities, live performances, and cultural displays on Canada Day. The day culminates in a spectacular fireworks show over Okanagan Lake at 10:00 PM, visible from Waterfront Park and Tugboat Bay Beach.
Kelowna Ribfest (July 4-6)
Kelowna Ribfest 2025 is set to sizzle from July 4 to 6 at City Park, offering a weekend packed with mouthwatering BBQ, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. Organized by Impact Events, this free festival features five award-winning rib teams competing for the coveted People's Choice Award alongside diverse food vendors offering options for every palate, including vegan dishes. Attendees can enjoy a lively beverage garden, a dedicated Kids Zone, an artisan marketplace, and continuous live performances, making it a must-visit event.
Rock the Lake (July 11–13)
Held outside Prospera Place, Rock the Lake is a three-day festival showcasing Canadian rock talent. The 2025 lineup features Simple Plan, The Sheepdogs, Down With Webster, Sam Roberts Band, and more. Attendees can enjoy the music in a lively downtown setting. Rock the Lake is one of the most anticipated events of the summer, bringing you all the excitement of a rock and roll concert to be enjoyed in the warm Kelowna sun.
Across the Lake Swim (July 19)
As Canada's largest and longest-running open water swim, the Across the Lake Swim challenges participants to a 2.1 km swim across Okanagan Lake. Originating in 1949, this event is a testament to community spirit and athletic endurance.
Downtown Kelowna Block Party (Late July)
Bernard Avenue comes alive with the Downtown Kelowna Block Party, featuring local vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and interactive activities for all ages. It's a celebration of community and local culture in the heart of the city.
August
NestFest (August2-3)
NestFest 2025 is set to electrify Kelowna over the BC Day long weekend, from August 2 to 3, at Red Bird Brewing. Celebrating its 8th anniversary, this 19+ outdoor music festival is renowned for its intimate, community-driven atmosphere, blending top-tier live performances with the brewery's signature craft beers and artisanal cuisine. While the 2025 lineup is still under wraps, past editions have featured acclaimed artists like Sam Roberts Band, Ruby Waters, and Dear Rouge, alongside emerging talents such as Katie Tupper and Jesse Roper. Attendees can anticipate a weekend filled with soulful melodies, dynamic DJ sets, and the warm camaraderie that defines NestFest. With ticket prices ranging from $49 to $69, it's an essential experience for music lovers seeking a unique festival vibe in the heart of Kelowna.
Argus Apple Triathlon (August 9-10)
The Argus Apple Triathlon returns to Kelowna on August 9–10, 2025, serving as the host for the Triathlon Canada Age Group National Championships in Sprint, Standard, and Aquabike disciplines. Set against the scenic backdrop of Okanagan Lake, this event attracts athletes from across the nation, offering races for all levels, including Kids Races, Super Sprint, and Standard Distance events, with options for relay teams. The weekend also features the Western Development Regional Championship, providing a platform for emerging elite athletes. Top finishers in each five-year age category will have the opportunity to qualify for the 2025 Triathlon World Championships in Wollongong, Australia. With its rich history and vibrant community support, the Apple Triathlon remains a cornerstone of Canada's triathlon scene.
All Summer Long
Parks Alive! (July–August)
Parks Alive! brings over 50 free concerts to various parks across Kelowna throughout July and August. These family-friendly events feature a range of musical genres and performances by both local and international artists.
Meet Me on Bernard (May 16 – September 14)
From May 16 to September 14, Bernard Avenue becomes a pedestrian-only zone, offering extended patios, live music, games, and community events. This initiative creates a vibrant, walkable space for residents and visitors to enjoy the downtown atmosphere. By closing down the street to vehicle traffic during Kelowna's notoriously hot summer months, it creates an outdoor community area for all to enjoy and connect while basking in the sun.
Conclusion
Kelowna's summer lineup offers something for everyone, from cultural celebrations and music festivals to athletic challenges and community gatherings. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these events provide opportunities to connect, celebrate, and experience the vibrant spirit of the Okanagan.
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