Indigenous Arts & Cultures in West Kelowna

Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences in West Kelowna

West Kelowna, located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, is part of the traditional territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) Nation. The Westbank First Nation (WFN), a self-governing community within the Syilx Nation, has deep cultural, spiritual, and ecological connections to the land. Today, visitors to West Kelowna can explore Indigenous history, art, and traditions through immersive experiences that celebrate Syilx culture and knowledge.

Visit the Sncewips Heritage Museum

The Sncewips Heritage Museum, operated by the Westbank First Nation, is a must-visit for those interested in Syilx history, governance, and traditions. The museum houses:

• Traditional artifacts, tools, and regalia
• Oral histories and storytelling exhibits
• Contemporary Indigenous artwork showcasing Syilx identity and resilience

The museum provides a deeper understanding of the Syilx way of life and the impacts of colonization on their communities.

Indigenous Art and Public Installations

West Kelowna is home to stunning Indigenous art, including:

• Public totem poles, murals, and sculptures that tell the stories of the Syilx people
• Indigenous carvings and jewelry available at local galleries and artisan markets
• Cultural exhibits featuring beadwork, woven cedar, and modern Indigenous paintings

Explore Indigenous-Owned Wineries

West Kelowna is part of BC’s wine country, and several Indigenous-owned wineries provide a unique blend of Syilx traditions and modern viticulture.

• Nk’Mip Cellars, located in nearby Osoyoos, is North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery, offering wine tastings and tours that incorporate Syilx land stewardship practices.
• Indigenous World Winery, operated by Westbank First Nation, highlights Indigenous-led sustainable farming and winemaking.

Hike Ancient Indigenous Trails

The Syilx people have lived in the Okanagan Valley for millennia, following seasonal migration routes. Visitors can explore:

• The Boucherie Rush Trail, a scenic hike on Mount Boucherie, where Indigenous guides share stories about Syilx land stewardship and traditional plant knowledge.
• Bear Creek Provincial Park, an area historically used by the Syilx for fishing and hunting, with interpretive signage about Indigenous land use.

Attend Indigenous Cultural Events and Festivals

West Kelowna hosts several Indigenous-led events throughout the year, including:

• National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations, featuring drumming, dance performances, and traditional storytelling.
• Westbank First Nation Powwow, a powerful gathering of Syilx and other First Nations dancers, singers, and artisans.

Indigenous-Led Outdoor Adventures

• Canoeing and kayaking experiences on Okanagan Lake, guided by Indigenous knowledge keepers who share the history of Syilx people and their connection to water.
• Guided nature walks and foraging experiences, where visitors learn about traditional plant medicines, food harvesting, and wildlife conservation.

Whether you’re exploring Syilx cultural landmarks, engaging with Indigenous artists, or experiencing traditional ecological knowledge, West Kelowna invites you to connect with the deep-rooted heritage and living traditions of the Syilx (Okanagan) people.