Laurel Packinghouse celebrates the proud history of Kelowna, adjacent to Laurel Square. Back in the day (1917) this beautiful spot served as a packinghouse for the city’s burgeoning fruit industry, owing to the climate. Kelowna is one of the warmest, most arid places in Canada, making it the perfect place to grow fruit trees, including grapes (mmm, wine) and the packinghouse is an ode to the city’s past and future. Now, this gorgeous building will be illuminated by Candlelight concerts.
The Laurel Packinghouse is right in the heart of Kelowna’s cultural district, by the shore of Okanagan Lake. It’s easy to get to using public transport and surrounded by bars and restaurants. You’ll also find the Waterfront Park and Rotary Mash Park within walking distance – two truly stunning areas.
Facts, curiosities and interesting things about The Laurel Packinghouse
1 A reflection of the city’s history
Kelowna has such a unique climate, offering the perfect conditions for fruit growing. The Okanagan Valley still produces 35% of the country’s apples and plenty of other soft fruits and in 1917 when the packinghouse was built, it was just as productive. This place was once a thriving hub of activity – the final stop before produce was sent out to spots across Canada and even further afield.
2. Complimented by Laurel Square
Outside of The Laurel Packinghouse, you will find Laurel Square – a place that connects people with nature. This outdoor oasis is kind of like an allotment, featuring a variety of plants that were chosen with the expert advice of First Nation Westbank elders. It’s a fun spot, especially for kids, with an irrigation flume that they can play with and direct themselves pls games.
3. Architecturally arresting
The Laurel Packinghouse is a beautiful building and although it has been repurposed and renovated many times, the bones of the building still reflect its primary function. It’s a vast space, crowned with wooden beams and super shiny wooden floors. The relatively low ceiling gives it that cosy and intimate feel but this huge space can easily accommodate plenty of people.
Candlelight concerts at The Laurel Packinghouse
Imagine the light of thousands of flickering candles bouncing off that shiny wooden floor and illuminating the rustic wooden beams. Well, there’s no need because you can see it for yourself at spectacular Candlelight concerts paying tribute to some of the world’s most famous musicians, from classical composers to pop, rock, and soul stars, plus much more. Talented, classically trained musicians play, surrounded by a soft glow.
What else can you do at The Laurel Packinghouse?
The Laurel Packinghouse is a unique space with a strong personality. There you will find the Okanagan Wine and Orchard Museums which are always worth visiting. There is no better way to learn about the city’s agricultural history. After exploring the fantastic exhibitions, you can treat yourself to some Okanagan-made treats at the gift shop. There are often fairs and festivals to enjoy too!
Candlelight exclusively chooses the city’s most beautiful spots for its concerts, including the stunning Laurel Packinghouse. From Singapore to San Francisco and Brisbane to Birmingham, this musical phenomenon has wowed audiences across the globe and now it’s Kelowna’s turn to bask in its intoxicating glow.