The United Nations has officially acknowledged Kelowna, B.C., as a prime destination for culinary delights. Situated in the picturesque Okanagan Valley, this lakeside city has been honored as a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO, making it the first Canadian city to receive this prestigious title.
Chief Robert Louie of the Westbank First Nation, which shares borders with Kelowna, highlighted the region’s abundant agricultural resources, including orchards, vineyards, farms, wineries, and craft beverage producers across all seasons. He emphasized the beauty of the area and expressed pride in showcasing internationally recognized top-quality foods and flavors.
Collaborating with the City of Kelowna, Okanagan College, and various food industry partners, the Westbank First Nation played a key role in securing the UNESCO designation. Despite Kelowna’s reputation for wineries, orchards, and upscale dining establishments, Chief Louie emphasized the significance of traditional Indigenous foods like wild game, venison, moose, elk, and berries in the culinary landscape.
Kelowna’s location within the Syilx people’s traditional territory underscores the importance of preserving food culture through responsible land stewardship. Chief Louie emphasized the need to protect the environment to ensure the production of high-quality food and drinks, citing the successful restoration of sockeye salmon runs in Okanagan Lake as a positive example.
Being part of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network as a Creative City of Gastronomy aligns Kelowna with other Canadian cities recognized by UNESCO for their cultural contributions. Mayor Tom Dyas praised the acknowledgment, highlighting Kelowna’s reputation as a hub for agriculture, culinary arts, and beverages that enhance the local economy and inspire others nationwide.
Stephane Facon, the owner of Kelowna’s Bouchons Bistro, praised the Okanagan Valley’s unique food offerings, emphasizing the region’s diverse produce and the ability to utilize locally sourced ingredients. He expressed hope that the UNESCO recognition would attract more visitors to experience cuisine made from the region’s bountiful resources.
Chief Louie emphasized the importance of attracting tourists and new patrons to the region following challenging years marked by devastating wildfires and drought. He emphasized the natural beauty of the area, including Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains, as a compelling draw for visitors, underscoring the region’s appeal as a stunning place to live that deserves global recognition.