Longs for Kelowna of past

Contributed - Jul 3, 2026 / 10:35 am | Story: 622971

Growing up in Kelowna, you could play in the streets for hours, stay at the park until dark and you knew your neighbours by name.

Families spent summer days at the Wild Waters waterslides, Flintstones Bedrock City theme park or at the Boardwalk Roller Skating. For many of us, those were some of the best memories of growing up here — simple, fun, and connected.

Fast forward to today and Kelowna is still an incredible place to call home. We have the lake, our beaches, beautiful parks, golf courses, wineries, and many improved public spaces. There is a lot to be proud of. But for many families, something still feels like it is missing.

I miss the days when you could feel like a tourist in your own town. I remember the coupon books families would get, filled with local places to visit and things to do. There was a sense that Kelowna had experiences built for families — places where people could spend a day together, explore, laugh and feel connected to the community.

Today, many families stay busy with children’s sports, school events and structured activities. Those things matter and they help build friendships, confidence and community. But I still wonder: Is that enough? Are we creating enough spaces and experiences where families can simply be together?

So, what does tomorrow look like?

My hope is for a safer, more connected Kelowna. A city where children can play soccer and parents can focus on cheering them on, not worrying about what might be on the field or happening nearby. Neighbourhoods where kids can ride their bikes, knock on a neighbour’s door if they need help and feel safe to do so. A city that continues to grow but also protects the everyday experiences that make families feel rooted, supported and connected.

Canada Day was a great reminder of what that can look like — people coming together, families celebrating and a community feeling like a community again.

That is the Kelowna I remember. That is the Kelowna I believe we can continue building.

Indy Dhial, Kelowna

Source: Castanet; Contributor: Indy Dhial

Link: Longs for Kelowna of past - Castanet.net