OCNews

The work of advancing Kelowna’s new international designation as a City of Gastronomy through the UNESCO Creative Cities Network is moving into its next phase, with the formation of a new Advisory Council and upcoming opportunities for community members to get involved.

“This is an important first step in establishing the community-based governance that will guide Kelowna’s work as a City of Gastronomy,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “This advisory council will play a key role in turning this designation into real, on-the-ground impact for our community, supporting local producers, strengthening our food economy, and celebrating the people and traditions that define the Okanagan. It continues to be a collaborative effort, bringing together people and partners from across the region who care deeply about recognizing, sharing, and sustaining our unique food culture.”

The inaugural Kelowna Gastronomy Advisory Council, which is co-chaired by Mayor Dyas and Okanagan College President, Dr. Neil Fassina, will play a key role in establishing how the UNESCO designation is implemented and managed. A priority for the first year will be to determine a permanent, independent governance structure and workplan. The Advisory Council will also help identify initiatives that strengthen Kelowna’s local food ecosystem, support producers and culinary innovators, and showcase the Okanagan’s unique taste of place to the world. 

“Kelowna’s designation as a City of Gastronomy recognizes the remarkable people who that shape our food story, from farmers and winemakers to chefs, artisans, businesses, entrepreneurs, not-for-profit leaders, and educators,” said Dr. Fassina. “It also creates an opportunity for our community to identify initiatives that will increase awareness of the importance of food production and growth locally, sustainability, and the incredible range of careers, tourism development, and economic development initiatives that are connected to gastronomy.” 

The Advisory Council, which will meet quarterly, includes local governments, as well as from across the region’s food, beverage, agriculture and agri-tech, culinary and restaurants, tourism, not-for-profit, educational and cultural sectors. 

To help residents and community partners learn more about Kelowna’s City of Gastronomy designation and how they can be involved in the initial start-up conversations, two information sessions are planned for April 14 and will be open to the public. The sessions will provide an overview of the UNESCO designation, share early priorities, and invite individuals interested in volunteering to become involved in future projects and working groups.

Tuesday, April 14, 9 – 10 a.m., Online (Zoom) – Registration information  *Online meeting will be recorded and available for viewing after the meeting

Tuesday, April 14, 5 – 6 p.m., Kelowna City Hall – Registration information

Kelowna’s City of Gastronomy project is currently being led by a central co-ordination group including representatives from the City of Kelowna, Okanagan College, and Tourism Kelowna, who put the application together on behalf of the community and supporting organizations. This partnership is responsible for program development, reporting, and co-ordination with the international network of UNESCO’s creative cities.

“We are in the early stages of embracing this new UNESCO designation and learning about the opportunities it has for Kelowna and the region,” said Jenn Goodwin, Okanagan College vice president and chair of the coordination group supporting the Advisory Council. “People across the community are excited to make a positive impact as a result of Kelowna being named a City of Gastronomy, and this is the time to gather ideas and input that will shape our plan and next steps together.”

Kelowna was designated Canada’s first City of Gastronomy by UNESCO in 2025, joining an international network of cities that place creativity and sustainable food systems at the heart of their development. The designation celebrates the region’s deep agricultural roots, world-class wineries, innovative culinary scene, and commitment to local food.

Additional information about the Kelowna City of Gastronomy designation is available here: https://www.tourismkelowna.com/gastronomy

Kelowna Gastronomy Advisory Council – Membership

www.tourismkelowna.com/gastronomy