Kelowna gains international gastronomy status

Widely known for its vibrant food and wine culture, Kelowna has received a prestigious gastronomy designation that could push it further onto the international stage.

Kelowna is the first city in the country to get a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation, an achievement that is sparking pride among some community members.

“This recognition confirms what those in the Okanagan Valley have known for decades – Kelowna is a world-class centre for agriculture, culinary arts, and beverages,” said Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas in a media release issued by the city today, Oct. 31.

“These industries boost our vibrant local scene, strengthen our economy, and inspire others across the country.”

UNESCO stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and is a world-wide network promoting peace and security through international cooperation in education, arts, sciences and culture. Gastronomy is one of eight fields in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Earlier this year, the City of Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Tourism Kelowna and Okanagan College applied for the designation, which required input from industry professionals such as growers, chefs and tech companies.

The prestigious designation means the city will be attracting national and international media attention which could inspire culinary festivals and development projects, and attract businesses and talent to the city. There will be opportunities for partnerships with other designated cities around the world.

The designation aligns with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, promoting a resilient food system and economy, and helps preserve and promote traditional syilx culinary practices and Indigenous food practises.

“Situated within the traditional territory of the syilx people, Kelowna is an agriculturally diverse region. The traditional foods and medicines within our territory reflect a deep connection and shared responsibility to the land and the water,” Westbank First Nation Chief Robert Louie said in the release.

“Joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network is an opportunity for the City of Kelowna to uphold this shared responsibility on a global scale by prioritizing protection of traditional foods, medicines, lands, and waters for generations to come.” 

Of course, the status is a source of community pride.

“This prestigious designation elevates Kelowna’s destination brand to an international level, and it is elating to see our city’s name listed with other global culinary destinations,” Lisanne Ballantyne, President and CEO of Tourism Kelowna, said in the release.

“Becoming a city of gastronomy will attract new visitors, events and conferences, and is something very special to be proud of as residents.” 

In the near future a working committee will be put together to develop a multi-year action plan.