When most people think of Penticton, they picture hot summer days, patio wines, and afternoons spent by the lake, but once the air turns crisp and the first flakes fall on the surrounding hills, something magical happens. The crowds fade, the lights glow a little warmer, and Penticton slips into a quieter, cozier rhythm that we can’t get enough of.
If you’ve only ever visited in summer, it’s time to see what you’ve been missing because Penticton in winter is every bit as special.
Snow-Filled Adventures Just Minutes Away
Adventure is never far away in Penticton. Less than an hour from downtown, Apex Mountain Resort offers incredible skiing and snowboarding with short lift lines and long, powder-filled runs. Whether you’re carving down the slopes, chasing fresh snow, or cozying up in the lodge between runs, Apex delivers that small-hill charm with world-class terrain.
Prefer a calmer kind of snow day? Nickel Plate Nordic Centre delivers over 45 km of groomed cross-country trails as well as plenty of marked snowshoe routes surrounded by breathtaking alpine views. This is the perfect way to get some activity in while truly appreciating the magic of winter.
And if you’re chasing that small-hill charm, head south, about 90 minutes, to Baldy Mountain Resort. Expect big snow, short lift lines, and that friendly mountain vibe that keeps you grinning from first chair to last run. With an authentic, laid-back feel and unbeatable powder days, Baldy is well worth the drive.
Cozy Eats & Après Adventures
Winter is the perfect time to slow down and savor Penticton’s incredible food and drink scene. Cozy cafés like Wayne & Freda, The Bench Market, and Petrasek Bakery offer the perfect start to your day with fresh-baked pastries, seasonal breakfast items, and comforting cups of locally roasted coffee.
When it’s time for dinner, Penticton’s culinary scene truly shines. For a memorable and extra cozy meal, don’t miss OROLO Restaurant + Cocktail Bar, where you can enjoy locally inspired dishes paired perfectly with estate wines and artfully crafted cocktails. For a laid-back and intimate dining experience, Chulo Tapas serves up Spanish inspired tapas and small share plates in a warm and welcoming space. Or head to the Dragonboat Pub, a local favourite for elevated pub classics, lake views, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to stay a while.
Round out your evening with a stop at one of Penticton’s craft breweries like Highway 97, Tin Whistle or Neighbourhood Brewing and find out why Penticton was named Canada’s Craft Beer Capital. Whether you’re raising a glass by the fireplace or sharing a meal with friends, Penticton’s food and drink scene is all about comfort, connection, and local flavour.
Festive Cheer and Winter Events
If you love the sight of twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and that unmistakable small-town holiday magic, you’ll fall in love with Penticton in winter. The city transforms into a cozy hub of celebration, where every corner feels a little brighter and every weekend brings something new to enjoy.
Bring on the holiday cheer during Magic on Main Street, Penticton’s annual Christmas parade and light-up celebration. Follow festive floats as they make their way down Main Street and wave to all your favourite holiday characters, including Frosty, the Grinch, and of course, Santa Claus himself. Once Santa arrives at Gyro Park, he’ll flip the giant switch to illuminate the park in a dazzling display of colour and Christmas magic. Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate as you wander through the park’s many interactive light installations, soaking in the sights, sounds, and sparkle of the season.
Throughout November and December, holiday markets pop up across the city, filled with local makers, handmade gifts, and delicious treats. They’re perfect for finding unique holiday treasures and supporting Penticton’s creative community.
Wine lovers can join in the celebrations with Christmas wine tasting events like the Naramata Bench Winterfest, Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive’s Light up the Vines, and Holiday Cheer presented by the Okanagan Falls Skaha Lake Winery Association. Each region adds its own festive touch, offering special holiday tastings, treats, festive activities, and beautifully decorated tasting rooms that make winter in wine country feel extra special.
And when the holidays wind down, the celebrations keep going. In mid-January, don’t miss Penticton’s newest family friendly winter festival – Frost Fest. Festival goers can look forward to a variety of activities and events that embrace the winter season including a rail jam, hockey tournament, polar bear dip, hot balloon glow up and more. Details are still to come, but it’s shaping up to be another unforgettable weekend of frosty fun.
Wandering under sparkling lights, shopping local, and sipping your way through the valley, Penticton’s winter calendar is full of festive moments worth celebrating.
Slower Pace, Cozy Places
If you’re looking for a stay that feels just right for winter, you’ve got options full of character. Casa Grande Inn is a lakeside retreat just steps from Okanagan Beach, where you can watch snowflakes fall over the water before heading out for a peaceful morning walk. For a mountain escape straight out of a snow globe, Chute Lake Lodge has you covered with rustic cabins, wood-fired saunas, an on site restaurant, and all the adventure you could want right at your doorstep. And if you’re drawn to art, colour, and creativity, Cormier’s Studio blends hospitality and local flair in a space that feels as warm and inspiring as it is unique.
The Perfect Winter Getaway
No matter how you choose to spend your days, Penticton in winter has a way of surprising and delighting. From snow-covered adventures and cozy culinary experiences to sparkling holiday celebrations and peaceful escapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your layers, grab your sense of adventure, and discover a side of Penticton that’s just as magical as summer… if not more. Your Penticton winter getaway is waiting!
Start planning your winter getaway today and experience Penticton’s coolest season yet.
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