Kelowna, British Columbia

Kelowna (2005 population 105,621 metropolitan population 165, 221) is a city on Okanagan Lake in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada. It is the seat of the Regional District of the Central Okanagan, and the third-largest metropolitan area in British Columbia (aside from Vancouver and Victoria). Kelowna is one of the fastest growing cities in North America and is considered by some to be one of the most desireable cities in the world in which to reside. The appropriate management of such rapid development (and its attendant consequences) is a source of significant debate within the community. It is the fourth most expensive housing market in Canada behind Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Victoria.

Related Topics:
2005 - City - Okanagan Lake - Okanagan Valley - British Columbia - Canada - Regional District of the Central Okanagan - Vancouver - Victoria - Toronto - Montreal

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First settled by missionaries in 1859, Kelowna was officially incorporated in 1905. Neighbouring towns include Westbank to the west across the lake, Lake Country and then Vernon to the north, Peachland to the southwest and further to the south, Summerland and Penticton.

Related Topics:
1859 - 1905 - Westbank - Lake Country - Vernon - Peachland - Summerland - Penticton

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The service industry employs the most people in Kelowna, the largest city in the tourist-oriented Okanagan Valley. In summer, boating is popular and in winter, Alpine skiing at the nearby Big White Ski Resort.

Related Topics:
Okanagan Valley - Alpine skiing - Big White Ski Resort

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Kelowna produces wines that have a worldwide reputation. Vineyards are common around and south of the city where the climate is ideal for the many wineries. Notable ones include the Mission Hill Estate Winery, specifically for its unique architectual design. However, at least two major wineries were damaged or destroyed in 2003 due to the Okanagan Mountain Park Fire. Kelowna is also the home to Sun Rype, a popular manufacturer of fruit juice and snacks.

Related Topics:
Okanagan Mountain Park Fire - Sun Rype

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Kelowna was home to the late Premier of British Columbia, W.A.C. Bennett and the birthplace of his son, William R. Bennett, who would also become Premier of the province.

Related Topics:
W.A.C. Bennett - William R. Bennett

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Major League Baseball player, Jeff Zimmerman of the Texas Rangers was born here. The city is also home to The Grapes of Wrath, one of Canada's most popular rock bands in the 1980s and early 1990s.

Related Topics:
Major League Baseball - Jeff Zimmerman - Texas Rangers - The Grapes of Wrath - 1980s - 1990s

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