Kelowna, British Columbia, has received official recognition from the United Nations as a top destination for food and beverages. The city, situated in the scenic Okanagan Valley, has been honored as a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO, making it the first Canadian city to achieve this prestigious title.
Chief Robert Louie of the Westbank First Nation, which shares borders with Kelowna, emphasized the region’s abundant agricultural resources, including orchards, vineyards, farms, wineries, and craft beverage producers. He highlighted the diverse culinary offerings that reflect the four seasons and the stunning natural surroundings that make Kelowna a desirable place to reside.
Collaborating with the City of Kelowna, Okanagan College, and various food industry partners, the Westbank First Nation played a crucial role in securing the UNESCO designation. While the area is renowned for its wineries and upscale dining establishments, Chief Louie underscored the importance of preserving traditional Indigenous foods, such as wild game like venison, moose, elk, and berries.
The Syilx people, whose ancestral land encompasses Kelowna, have a deep connection to the region’s food culture. Chief Louie emphasized the significance of environmental stewardship in maintaining the quality of food and drink sourced from the land, citing the successful restoration of sockeye salmon populations in Okanagan Lake as a positive development.
The Creative City of Gastronomy distinction places Kelowna among a select group of Canadian cities in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network, recognizing the city’s contributions to agriculture, culinary arts, and beverages. Mayor Tom Dyas praised Kelowna’s vibrant food scene, economic strength, and role as an inspiration to communities nationwide.
Stephane Facon, owner and executive chef of Bouchons Bistro in Kelowna, highlighted the unique culinary opportunities in the Okanagan Valley, enabled by the region’s favorable climate for growing diverse produce. Facon expressed hope that the UNESCO recognition would attract more visitors eager to savor dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing the commitment to quality and service.
Chief Louie stressed the importance of attracting tourists and new patrons to the region following challenging years marked by devastating wildfires and drought conditions. He emphasized the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley, with its picturesque lake, surrounding mountains, and lush valley, as a compelling reason for the world to discover and appreciate Kelowna’s culinary and cultural offerings.