The charming 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. Today, visitors can learn more about its history at the Okanagan Wine and Orchard Museum, attend a range of events, from workshops to weddings.
Background on The Laurel Packinghouse
This historic venue is renowned for its role in preserving Kelowna’s rich agricultural heritage and its perfect conditions for fruit growing, particularly its connection to the region’s fruit industry. It was built in 1917 and it currently stands as the oldest and largest fruit packinghouse in the region.
What 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 or a sensational Candlelight concert. These performances pay tribute to some of the world’s most famous musicians, from classical composers to pop, rock, and soul stars, plus much more. Imagine the light of thousands of flickering candles bouncing off that shiny wooden floor and illuminating the rustic wooden beams. For those looking for a unique venue to host their next event, the space is very versatile and can be easily transformed to cater your wishes.
More fun facts and curiosities
1. 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 plus games.
2. 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.
FAQs
Does the venue have a Christmas market?
Yes, The Laurel Packinghouse Christmas market is a family-friendly and free destination, held in November and December. Guests can try yummy holiday food and buy gifts for their loved ones.
How much does a wedding cost at The Laurel Packinghouse?
The Laurel Packinghouse wedding costs differ depending on the rental period, rental area and number of guests, starting from 200$/h and between 70-200$/person. All rates include taxes, deliveries, set-up, and take-down.
How to get to The Laurel Packinghouse?
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, with a number of bus routes serving the downtown area. Additionally, if you’re driving, you’ll find The Chapman Parkade on Lawrence Avenue and the Library Parkade on Ellis Street as convenient nearby parking options.
Nearby venues
Being situated in the city’s cultural district, the venue is surrounded by bars and restaurants. You’ll also find the Waterfront Park and Rotary Mash Park within walking distance – two truly stunning areas. What’s more, within a 5-15 minute radius, curious visitors can explore Kelowna Community Theatre, the Rotary Centre for the Arts, the Okanagan Heritage Museum, and the Kelowna Art Gallery.
The Laurel Packinghouse in Kelowna is a testament to agricultural history but also offers enchanting candlelit performances. Candlelight exclusively chooses the city’s most beautiful spots for its concerts and now it’s Kelowna’s turn to bask in its intoxicating glow.