Global food tourism is expanding rapidly and could approach the $8 billion mark by the early 2030s, although travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences that may challenge traditional dishes.

Kelowna’s gastronomy sector is robust, comprising more than 500 restaurants that generate about $394 million in annual economic activity, attract over 2 million visitors each year, and contribute roughly $1.17 billion in tourism revenue.

Signature dishes act as identity symbols, tying ingredients, landscapes, and emotion to how cities and nations communicate cultural pride through food.

Gastronomy tourism is evolving into a means of cultural expression and soft power, with Canada and other nations increasingly leveraging food diplomacy.

Kelowna has secured UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy status, positioning the city for enhanced global recognition, economic growth, and the preservation of Syilx foodways, while promoting cultural exchange with other UNESCO cities and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Local leaders, including David Schimpky, say the designation will drive sustainable development and encourage collaboration guided by Syilx land and water stewardship.

Benefits of the designation include heightened international visibility, greater media attention, and opportunities to launch new culinary festivals and development projects, alongside preserving Syilx practices and ingredients.

Across Canada, regions use food festivals, culinary trails, and farm-to-table initiatives to promote local culture, support producers, and extend tourist seasons.

The UNESCO designation signals a shared cultural identity around food, wine, craft beverages, festivals, and markets within Kelowna and its broader region.

A local working committee will be formed to develop a multi-year action plan for Kelowna’s gastronomy sector, bringing together private, public, and nonprofit stakeholders.

The bid was a collaborative effort supported by the City of Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Tourism Kelowna, and Okanagan College, with input from growers, producers, chefs, business owners, nonprofits, and tech companies.

Mayor Tom Dyas underscored Kelowna’s status as a world-class hub for agriculture, culinary arts, and beverages, highlighting the designation’s potential to attract visitors and boost the local economy.