Samantha Sewell

Looking for fun things to do in Vernon, BC?
We took Sonia and Wyteh to the North Valley Gymnastics drop-in session, and it was an absolute blast! From trampoline bounces to our absolute favorite—the massive foam pit—it’s the perfect high-energy activity for families, friends, and anyone wanting to experience gymnastics.

The best part? Drop-in gymnastics at North Valley Gymnastics is open to everyone—you don't have to be a local resident to join the fun!

Whether you are looking for a rainy day activity, family fun in the Okanagan, or a Friday night outing with friends, North Valley Gymnastics offers affordable weekly sessions for all ages.

? CHECK OUT THE DROP-IN SCHEDULE & RATES (Spring 2026):

• Wednesday Night Drop-In (Ages 7+): 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM ($15/person) | Weekly April 8 – June 17, 2026
• Friday Parent & Child Session: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM ($8/person) | Weekly April 10 – June 19, 2026
• Friday Night "Everyone Welcome": 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM ($15/person) | Select dates: May 15, June 5, & June 19, 2026

Registration is required via the North Valley Gymnastics website!!

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Looking for a budget-friendly family outing in the Okanagan? A few weeks ago, we took Wyeth and Sonia to the KF Centre for Excellence at YLW (Kelowna International Airport), and it was such an incredible experience for the kids!

Whether you have a future pilot or just someone who loves watching the big planes take off, this spot is a hidden gem in Kelowna. For only $10 per family (or $5 per person), it’s one of the most affordable and educational ways to spend an afternoon.

✈️ Highlights of our visit:

• The Cockpit Experience: If you have a little one who wants to sit in a real cockpit and pretend to fly, this is the place to be.


• Flight Simulator: Older kids and teens can even book a session in a real flight simulator!

? Visit Information:

• Location: KF Centre for Excellence (5800 Lapointe Dr, Kelowna, BC)


• Pro Tip: If you want to try the flight simulator, call or book online in advance as spots are limited!

Don't forget to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE for more local adventures! ??

#Kelowna #YLW #OkanaganLiving #FamilyTravel #Aviation #ExploreBC #KFCentreForExcellence #CanadianFamilies #PlaneSpotting #BudgetTravel #KelownaWithKids

We spent the day at Scandia Golf & Games in the heart of Kelowna, and it was an absolute blast for the whole family! Whether you're a local or just visiting the Okanagan, this place is a must-visit for some serious fun.

In this video, we check out everything Scandia has to offer:

? The Arcade: Tons of games for all ages and a huge selection of toddler rides for the little ones.

?️ Prizes: We spent some time racking up points to trade in for some awesome prizes at the end!

⛳️ Mini Golf: We tried both the outdoor and indoor courses. The downstairs indoor course is incredibly well-themed—definitely a highlight!

?️ Go-Karting: We hit the track for some high-speed action! They offer both solo and partner rides. Just a heads up on the size requirements—Wyeth was the only one big enough to get behind the wheel this time!

? Junk Food: No trip to Scandia is complete without the snacks. We fueled up on hot dogs, cotton candy, candy, and, of course, some classic Slurpees to cool down.

The day after I posted my previous YLW video, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) opened its new terminal expansion. The update quickly created a lot of local discussion, excitement, and some concerns, so I decided to experience the changes for myself.

If you have travelled through YLW before, several parts of the airport experience have changed.

New Security Screening Experience

The most noticeable update is the brand-new security hallway. When we visited, we were on one of the last flights of the day, so security was quiet, but the redesigned space should help significantly during busy travel periods.

Airport staff now fully recognize the Sunflower Lanyard Program, which is an important accessibility improvement for travelers who may require additional support while moving through security.

Security screening itself is now much more streamlined:

• Electronics no longer need to be removed from bags


• Liquids can remain packed


• Shoes stay on, except for boots above the ankle

The process felt faster and less stressful compared to previous departures from YLW.

First Impressions of the New Terminal

Seeing the new terminal in person was impressive. I typically fly red-eye flights, so I have not yet experienced the space during daytime hours, but the expanded windows appear designed to offer excellent runway and mountain views during the day.

The terminal feels more modern, open, and comparable to larger Canadian airports while still maintaining YLW’s regional atmosphere.

Changes to Arrivals (Regional Flights)

Arrivals have also changed for regional flights. Previously, passengers exited into a quiet hallway area. Now, passengers arrive directly at a gate and follow standard airport signage toward baggage claim.

One notable difference is that baggage claim itself has not moved. Passengers now exit into the pre-security area on the opposite side of the airport, requiring travelers to walk through the full ticketing and check-in area to retrieve luggage.

During busy travel periods, this layout could potentially create congestion, particularly if check-in lines are long. Travelers with mobility considerations may wish to request wheelchair assistance, as the walk is longer and spans most of the pre-security terminal.

Overall Thoughts

The terminal expansion represents a significant upgrade for Kelowna International Airport:

• Improved security flow


• Better accessibility recognition


• Modernized terminal environment


• More standard arrival experience

It will be interesting to see how the airport performs during peak travel times and daytime departures.

On Friday, February 6th, 2026, the annual Vernon Winter Carnival Balloon Glow lit up the night sky — and truly outdid itself this year. A long-standing favourite for locals and visitors alike, this iconic event brought the community together in a way we’ve never seen before.

From the moment the gates opened, it was clear this was the busiest Balloon Glow Vernon has ever hosted. The energy was electric as families, friends, and carnival-goers filled the grounds, bundled up and ready to soak in every moment.

The evening featured mesmerizing fire dancers, adding warmth and drama to the crisp winter air, while food trucks lined the space with the irresistible smell of comfort food and sweet treats. A mini market showcased local vendors, giving attendees a chance to shop small and support our amazing community creators.

And of course — the true stars of the night — the hot air balloons. As they illuminated one by one, glowing against the dark winter sky, the crowd fell into awe. The combination of music, lights, laughter, and towering balloons created a truly magical atmosphere that reminded everyone why the Vernon Winter Carnival is so special.

This year’s Balloon Glow wasn’t just an event — it was an unforgettable experience, a celebration of winter, community, and the joy of coming together. If you’ve never attended, this is definitely one to add to your bucket list for next year.

Lights, laughs, and a little friendly competition

Sonia & Wyeth took on Scandia Golf & Games and let’s just say… things got competitive 

From mini golf moments to arcade chaos, this Tourism feature is packed with fun, energy, and all the Kelowna vibes you love 

 Full video dropping soon — you’re not going to want to miss this one!

Flying from Seattle to Kelowna: What to Expect on One of the Only Direct Routes

With more visitors coming to Canada, Mom and I are starting a new flying series. In this video, we explore flying from SEA (Seattle) to YLW (Kelowna), which is one of the only direct flights from the USA into Kelowna. If you’re considering this route, here are a few helpful things to know before you go.

Bring Your Own Pen
One small but important tip: pack your own pen. We hadn’t flown this route in quite some time, and the flight attendants only had two pens available for over five people, including themselves. This caused delays, as some passengers had to fill out their declaration cards after landing instead of during the flight.

Filming Restrictions at Customs
Due to federal law, we weren’t able to film inside the customs area at Kelowna International Airport.

What Customs Is Like at YLW
Kelowna’s customs area is extremely small, with only four agent booths. While we were there, only two agents were working, and the wait time was about 15–20 minutes.
It’s also important to note that there is currently no accessible lane or wheelchair lane in the customs area.

Washrooms in the Customs Area
There is a small washroom located within the customs area. The women’s washroom is a single-stall facility, so it can line up during busier times.

Connecting to Another Canadian City
If you are connecting onward to another Canadian destination, you will need to collect your baggage and re-check it at a ticketing desk after clearing customs. This can impact your connection time, so be sure to factor that into your travel plans.

Baggage Claim Before Clearing Customs
Customs baggage arrives at a separate baggage claim area before you clear customs. Make sure you collect your luggage before exiting through the final door, as you won’t be able to go back once you leave the secure area.

Arriving in Kelowna
Once you’ve cleared customs, you’ll enter the main pre-security area of the terminal—welcome to Kelowna.

Pick-Up and Transportation Tips
YLW’s pick-up area is located on the far side of the terminal. If you’re being picked up by family or friends, you may want to walk inside the airport to reach the correct pick-up zone.
If you’re using a taxi, rideshare service, or a ski resort shuttle, exit through the door right by baggage claim for the most convenient access.

2025 Downtown Kelowna Holiday Light Up.
This year we unveiled our new 40-foot Christmas tree, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening filled with community, celebration, and holiday spirit.

Sonia and Wyeth came out to enjoy the festivities and made time to visit both Santa and the Grinch. The event saw a wonderful turnout, making it one of the most memorable light ups to date.

A highlight of the night was a surprise proposal on stage, and we are thrilled to share that she said yes.

? Our 4th Annual Trip to Davidson Orchard ? Today we celebrated one of our favourite yearly traditions — our visit to Davidson Orchard! A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who joined us, helped transport backpacks, and carried pumpkins big and small. Your presence and partnership make days like this so special. In the Reggio Emilia approach, learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. Excursions like this allow children to connect with the land, see where their food comes from, and experience community in a living, tangible way. The orchard becomes a classroom of wonder — filled with questions, discoveries, and sensory experiences that can’t be replicated indoors. We return inspired, a little muddy, and full of stories to revisit together in the days ahead. ?✨ Shout to to Ms. Davidson who not only celebrated her first Davidson trip with Raising Stars but her first EVER city bus ride!

Local tourism was celebrated at the Sundog Festival in Vernon, BC, where culture, community, and creativity were highlighted. The festival was attended to showcase how art, music, and food bring people together in the Okanagan. The Vernon Sundog Festival was experienced through vibrant performances, artisan markets, and family-friendly (FREE) activities, with the goal of encouraging visitors and residents alike to support local events. By attending the Sundog Festival, the importance of tourism in Vernon, British Columbia, was promoted while community spirit was captured on film.

The annual Grindrod Garlic Festival was held on Sunday, August 24th in Enderby, BC, celebrating a North Okanagan tradition. Garlic, artisans, and local farms were showcased, and community support was encouraged. A wonderful way to experience Okanagan culture!

Today we visited Splash Down Vernon with Sonia and Wyeth, and it turned out to be such a fun surprise! Going in, I wasn’t too optimistic about what slides Sonia could ride—or even what Wyeth could go on—but I was pleasantly surprised. With an adult, they were able to enjoy all but 5 of the slides, which made it a fantastic experience for everyone...even the little.

? About Splash Down Vernon:
Splash Down Vernon is a family-friendly waterpark in Vernon, British Columbia, featuring exciting waterslides, a lazy river, a splash pad for younger kids, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. It’s the perfect summer activity for families, kids, and anyone looking to cool off while having fun.

? Pro Tip: The last 4 hours of the day are offered at a discounted rate, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy all the rides and attractions without missing out.

We were able to experience everything at the park, and it felt like such a great way to support local attractions in Vernon. Whether you’re visiting the Okanagan or looking for fun things to do in Vernon with kids, Splash Down is a must-do summer activity!