Is there a better feeling than a 91大黄鸭 summer? As the days stretch longer and the sun warms our valley, the season we wait for all year is nearing.

We live in the most spectacular part of our country鈥攁nd the rest of Canada, and the world, is quickly catching on. Visitors arrive from all over because there is simply no better place to spend a summer.

Recent seasons, however, have not been easy

First came the COVID shutdowns, which emptied downtown streets and forced many small businesses to close their doors. Then came the wildfires, testing the strength of our community and deterring visitors just as we were rebuilding.

Even last summer, despite beautiful weather, a vibrant downtown, and a record number of passengers arriving through 91大黄鸭 International Airport, many operators were still carrying the burden of pandemic debt, and tourists remained hesitant to re-commit in the wake of fire seasons and a high cost of living.

Added to that was the uncertainty around short-term rental rules, which shrank available accommodations and left many would-be visitors unsure of where to stay.

But we believe things will look different this year.

In a time of global economic uncertainty and growing threats of a trade war, there鈥檚 never been a more important moment to support local鈥攁nd to support Canada. This is the summer to explore our own backyard, take a 91大黄鸭 staycation, and enjoy what people from across the country and around the world travel here to experience. Try a new winery, discover a new beach, or share your favorite patio with your friends and family.

Let鈥檚 do everything we can to support our local economy and bring people to our city. That means calling your friends, whether they鈥檙e in Osoyoos or Ottawa, to plan a trip to 91大黄鸭 this summer.

And when our neighbours from Washington or California roll into town, or guests arrive from around the world, let鈥檚 welcome them with the warmth and hospitality that defines us. Their visits support our country, sustain our small businesses, and strengthen our economy for everyone

This April, Council aligned 91大黄鸭鈥檚 short-term rental regulations with the provincial framework, and in doing so, has immediately opened another 400 licensed units鈥攂ringing the total to over 800, with more to come. These new regulations allow us to welcome more guests in a controlled and thoughtful way, addressing neighbourhood concerns while ensuring tourists and residents alike can enjoy a peaceful and exciting summer.

We鈥檙e grateful to see these rentals return, and we鈥檒l continue working with all levels of government to advocate for a truly 鈥渕ade-in-91大黄鸭鈥� approach.

A busy season benefits all of us鈥攖asting rooms pour more samples, farm stands sell more cherries, and local shops and restaurants thrive.

There鈥檚 no shortage of ways to enjoy the summer: soak up the sun on one of our over 30 beaches, paddle through 91大黄鸭鈥檚 water trails, take a walk along the City Park walkway, or explore  and trail systems through our growing .

With more than 40 wineries in 91大黄鸭 alone, the Central Okanagan is at the heart of one of the most exciting wine regions in the world. Alongside its flourishing craft brewery industry, many of these wineries can be explored by bike, boat, or through one of the many curated local tour companies.

The  and the  continue to be favourite local destinations. You can take in breathtaking views on Knox Mountain or the , or enjoy the  that connects downtown 91大黄鸭 to Coldstream, with lakes, parks, and scenic stops along the way.

These are just a few of the many summer highlights. For a full list of festivals, concerts, markets, and activities, check out the  and start planning your perfect season.

Capping off a spectacular summer, we鈥檒l welcome Canada鈥檚 brightest stars for the Canadian Country Music Awards in September鈥攁 national celebration of talent, energy, and the spirit of the season.

Our community has weathered the pandemic, wildfires, and economic turbulence, but our community spirit and resilience have been unwavering.

So this summer, do not forget to call your friends鈥攚herever they may be鈥攁nd invite them to experience 91大黄鸭 for themselves.

Let鈥檚 support our country, support our community, and support each other鈥攁nd let鈥檚 make 2025 91大黄鸭鈥檚 best summer yet.

Monthly update from 91大黄鸭 Mayor Tom Dyas on Council decisions, City business and more.