CCMA's Kelowna/Tourism Kelowna

By Vernon Matters Staff

Significant impact

Kelowna sees major economic lift from CCMA week, looks ahead to Memorial Cup

Nov 21, 2025 | 11:20 AM

The 2025 Canadian Country Music Week delivered a major boost to Kelowna’s economy, according to city staff.

The event, held from Sept.10 to 13, generated nearly $12 million in direct economic impact and supported more than 3,800 local jobs.

Hotels and businesses saw a surge in activity, with nearly half of the 27,500 attendees coming from outside the city. Downtown streets and shops were decorated with themed displays, local artists contributed installations, and special events drew visitors to the area.

All of these findings will be presented to council next week. City staff said the event not only benefited businesses during the shoulder season, it also put Kelowna on a national stage and could help attract more large-scale events in the future.

The city is now preparing for the 2026 Memorial Cup, which is expected to bring an economic impact of between $15 million and $18 million. Final numbers will depend on factors such as travel distance, attendance, visitor demographics, and spending patterns. City officials and the host committee said the tournament is expected to deliver strong social and economic benefits, create new jobs, and leave a lasting legacy for residents and visitors.

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