Touchdown Kelowna brings $60M boost as downtown businesses see big benefit

The Okanagan’s hospitality and tourism sector is reporting a major lift after a 10-day sports and entertainment stretch that brought the B.C. Lions to Kelowna and filled hotels, restaurants and the downtown core with thousands of visitors.

The provincial government estimates the “Touchdown Kelowna” initiative, which included two CFL games hosted at the Apple Bowl due to FIFA World Cup scheduling at B.C. Place, generated roughly $60 million in economic activity.

Local business owners in downtown Kelowna said the impact was immediate, with steady foot traffic and packed dining rooms throughout the event window as fans, staff and visitors flowed through the city.

More than 18,000 spectators attended the Lions’ final game at the Apple Bowl, where the team picked up a 36-24 win over the Edmonton Elks to close out their Okanagan stay.