A Sweet Celebration

If you have an appetite for sweet things and a love for outdoor events, the Kelowna Maple Festival might just be the place for you. Celebrated every April in beautiful Kelowna, this festival combines the joy of springtime with the rich traditions of Canadian maple syrup production. Here's what you need to know if you're planning to attend this year's celebration.

A Brief Overview

The Kelowna Maple Festival, known for its celebration of all things maple, is a tradition in the Okanagan Valley. The event is typically held in the last weekend of April, perfectly timed to celebrate the end of the sugaring-off season. The festival's primary goal is to honour the historical and ongoing significance of maple syrup production in Canada whilst also providing a fun and engaging event for locals and visitors alike.

The Venue

Kelowna, British Columbia, with its scenic beauty, offers the perfect backdrop for this event. The festival takes place in Stuart Park rain or shine. For many, visiting the Sugar Shack is a cherished tradition, full of family fun and sweet memories with the whole community.

The Festivities

At the core of the Kelowna Maple Festival are the delightful maple syrup tastings. The festival features various local producers offering samples of their rich and sweet syrups, allowing you to explore a wide range of flavours. But the syrup is just the beginning. You'll also find maple taffy on snow, maple tarts, maple cotton candy and pea soup. There are plenty of activities for all ages at the festival, including arts and crafts, live entertainment, a parade, and interactive exhibits showcasing the process of maple syrup production. Children's activities often include face painting, balloons, clowns, jugglers and giants. The special 'sugar shack' is where kids can learn about the traditional methods of making maple syrup.

Practical Information

Given its popularity, it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance. The festival usually begins around 10 am and concludes by 4 pm. It's free to attend, but some activities or tastings may require a small fee. Kelowna is easily accessible via the Kelowna International Airport for those travelling from afar, and there's a range of accommodation options in the city catering to different budgets. In terms of weather, April in Kelowna is typically mild and sunny, but it's wise to check the forecast and dress appropriately, as the festival takes place outdoors.