We all know that Christmas is for the kids, and if you are shopping for little ones this year, the Okanagan has you covered! With fantastic locally owned toy stores across the Okanagan, we have something for every interest!
This list brings together the best from Kelowna, Vernon Kamloops, and Prince George. Think of the Canadian time catalogue for the Okanagan Valley, and if they could red crayon this blog, it would be 99% circled.
So, since we only have a couple more weeks of shopping time, I will get right to it! I have divided it by the type of gifts you can get to cover every kid on your list and the top Okanagan Experiences for the family.
Count Down With Advent Calendars
If you like to count down the days until Christmas Eve with your kids, you will love the advent calendars at Tumbleweed Toys in Kamloops. They have calendars with all the different movies, characters, and themes you can think of!
Vernon Teach and Learn is a great resource for any of the little (or big) builders in your life who might be fans of the many lines of Lego advent calendars.
If the kids on your list are furry and 4 legged, head over to Purity Feed in Kamloops, Bone and Biscuit or Trailblazers in Kelowna.
For the Itty Bittys
If you have a new baby on your list celebrating their first Christmas this year, we have the perfect options for you.
Make tummy time fun time with soft books and colourful stuffies from Modern Family Boutique. They are made with soft, durable materials, bright colours, and other doo-dads to stimulate their little minds.
Are you thinking of something smaller? You can head over to Baby and Me in Kelowna and pick up a Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle & Sensory Teether, a set of Stacking Rings to keep them happy. These are classics and always a hit with the teeny tiny ones.
Looking for a gift that’s as adorable as it is unforgettable? Chicken Little in Vernon is your go-to for toys that make little ones light up with joy. Their thoughtfully curated selection is perfect for itty-bitties, offering everything from classic wooden toys to whimsical keepsakes that parents will treasure just as much as the kiddos. Whether you’re shopping for a baby’s first holiday or a toddler’s next adventure, you’ll find gifts that are both memorable and oh-so-charming.
Clothing
Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the little ones in your life? Clothes are always a great choice—practical, stylish, and oh-so-cute! Plus, kids grow faster than you can say “outgrown!” so fresh outfits are always welcome. This year, skip the mall and shop locally at these amazing kids’ clothing spots in Okanagan.
In Kelowna, Kid’s Closet and Once Upon A Child are must-visits for consignment treasures. From gently-loved everyday outfits to special occasion finds, they’ve got it all—Once Upon A Child is especially perfect for baby essentials. If you’re gearing up for winter adventures,
Chicken Little in Vernon has cozy cold-weather gear that’s both practical and adorable. Over in Armstrong, Sea Stars Kids Boutique is a haven for preloved, trendy outfits that won’t break the bank. And don’t miss Bébé D’Or in Kelowna for chic, cozy pieces that’ll make your little one the best-dressed kid on the block.
With sustainable options, affordable prices, and endless charm, these local stores make gift-giving a win-win for parents and kiddos alike!
Give The Gift of Learning
Nothing is better than watching the kids in your life grow, learn, and discover new things about the world. I am always the nerdy aunt with the educational gifts, but my nieces and nephews never complain because I like to visit Vernon Teach and Learn. Their selection of fun and educational toys is unrivalled in the Okanagan. So far, some big favourites have been the wooden puzzles and the Science Kits. They had so much fun they didn’t even know they were learning.
If you have a little reader in the family, you can pick up the next must-read book in their series at Mosaic Books or Once Upon a Bookstore in Kelowna. For books to teach your little one about nature and indigenous heritage, check out the selection at Strong Nations. They have a wide selection for all ages.
For Kids That Like Things That Go Zoom!
Is your little human obsessed with everything that moves or is on wheels? Then head to Loadza Toys in Kelowna and check out their Bruder Collection. They have everything from Diggers to emergency vehicles. They look so realistic, like this Bruder CAT Skid Steer Loader.
If it would run with a motor, they have a tiny version of it!
If you are in the Kamloops area, check out Tumbleweeds and into trains to check out their wooden train and track set.
If your kidlet likes to read about things that go zoom, we can not recommend Once Upon a Bookstore in Kelowna more, specifically the ‘Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site’ book – it was a big hit with the tiny-beans in our lives.
The Little Noise Makers
I am doing well so far at keeping the toy options quiet, but how will you not encourage your budding musician and help them hone their talents? If they are going to make some music, there are lots of animal themed noise makers at Wild Treasures Gift Shop at the BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops. They will be the next Mozart in no time!
Known for its legendary ice cream, Tickleberry’s in Okanagan Falls is also a treasure trove of delightful gifts and toys. Their shop is packed with locally made goods and whimsical toys that are sure to entertain any noise-maker in your life.
Building Blocks That Rock
For the little builders, there are always so many options, like this Bloko Set for the young ones or a classic wooden block set that works for most ages at Tumbleweeds Toys.
Of course, Legos are always a good option for every age range, and there are Lego sets for everyone. You can build anything you can imagine with enough legos, but if you are looking for a particular set like Hogwarts castle, Iron Man’s mask, or the pink orchid from the flower collection, head to Loadza Toys.
If you are looking for building blocks for smaller fingers, checkout Once Upon A Child for second-hand options with a lot of life to live!
Crafty Stuff
There are always so many options for crafty kids, but it’s hard to choose. And honestly, do you ever have too many craft supplies? No, I don’t think so! If you are in Vernon, Teach and Learn has a great collection of art supplies for kids, including a set of Magic Pens!
For the more serious artist, Opus in Kelowna has supplies for all ages and artistic styles. If they are still finding their way, check out the art kits to help give them some guidance.
If they’re more into guided crafting, checkout your local Buckerfields or Peavy Mart for loads of kits and set collections for all ages. From puzzles, to Taylor Swift bracelet kits to soap making tools, there is something to keep all busy hands crafting.
Future Two-Wheeling Speed Demons
Is your little one learning to ride a bike this year? That is so exciting! One of the best ways to start them off, even before training wheels, is with a push bike! Push bikes help them learn balance and confidence on the bike and are so easy to use.
You can check these out at Kelowna Cycle or Cycle Logic Bikes In Kamloops. Your kid will be riding off in no time. And, of course, don’t forget a new helmet and safety gear!
Soft Snugglers
Like craft supplies, you can rarely go wrong with a stuffed animal. While any of the bookstores on our list above are also great spots to score a cute new plushie, we have a few other local favourites!
Teeter Totter Toys in Vernon has an extensive selection of soft toys, including a line of sensory-friendly soothing toys perfect for those on your list who might need something more specific.
Castle and Cottages also have an amazing selection of Jelly Cat toys and other soft and cuddlys. The team there also brings in some of the most beautiful baby gifts and dishware perfect for any new family’s first Christmas.
Someone else who might not be on your radar for new snuggly friends is the Pharmasave at Airport Village in Kelowna. It is locally owned and they go out of their way to bring in locally made goods, toys and treats perfect for anyone on your Christmas list.
Give the Gift of an Experience!
This year, swap toys for unforgettable experiences! Treat the kids in your life to local adventures they’ll remember…whether it’s exploring nature, discovering art, or diving into fun activities right here in the Okanagan.
While some experiences are perfect for a snowy winter’s day, others truly shine in the Okanagan sunshine. Gift certificates make a thoughtful option for those seasonal gems, letting your little ones enjoy the best of what our region has to offer all year round.
Give the gift of joy, discovery, and family time—it’s the ultimate holiday win!
Okanagan Science Centre in Vernon
The OSC helps bring science alive for all little minds. They believe in creating access to science so all kids can learn and grow. Make sure that you check the website for current exhibits and events. There’s always something new happening at the Okanagan Science Centre.
Scandia Golf & Games in Kelowna
Scandia place offers hours of fun with Jungle Mini Golf, a full arcade with new virtual games and a chance to win prizes. There is something for everyone in the family!
The Fun Factor in Kamloops
Give the gift of endless fun with a trip to The Fun Factor in Kamloops! Packed with arcade games, laser tag, and more, it’s the ultimate family-friendly destination for kids of all ages. A day here is guaranteed to bring laughter and unforgettable memories!
Kangaroo Creek Farm in Lake Country
A must-visit experience when in the Okanagan. The Kangaroo Creek Farm allows you to get up and personal (respectfully) with kangaroos, wallabies, emus, parrots, sugar gliders, peacocks, some very portly pigs, and so much more.
Skating at Stuart Park in Kelowna
Bundle up and hit the ice at Stuart Park Skating Rink in Kelowna! This outdoor rink offers breathtaking views and a festive atmosphere, making it a magical winter activity for the whole family. Bonus points for hot cocoa breaks!
Play Area in Kelowna
A Play Area gift card is a ticket to an indoor adventure in Kelowna! With climbing structures, slides, and fun galore, it’s a perfect rainy-day escape or an exciting treat for kids to burn off energy while parents relax.
Energy Plex in Kelowna
Amp up the action with a visit to Energy Plex in Kelowna. This high-energy indoor activity center is packed with trampolines, climbing walls, and more. It’s a fantastic gift for families looking for thrills and active fun!
Zaaz Imaginative Play Village in Kamloops
Zaaz has a wide range of services including open play, drop-in groups, eventz, drop-off camps during school closures, registered child care, support groups with partners, in-house dining, catering, and parties!
H2O Adventure and Fitness Centre in Kelowna
Splashdown at H20 with the whole family. Spend the day with the little ones in the splash pool or floating around the lazy river. Take a ride down one of the two water slides or ride the wave on the FlowRider.
Planet Lazer in Kelowna
Spend the afternoon playing round after round with laser tag at Planet Lazer. Run, hide, duck and roll to see who the ultimate shooter in the family is.
Kettle Valley Railway Train Ride in Summerland
The Kettle Valley Steam Railway offers a different kind of experience as you ride the restored 1912 steam locomotive through beautiful valleys and past vineyards. Check their website for special events and different types of experiences, like the Great Train Robbery and BBQ.
O’Keefe Ranch in Spallumcheen
Give the kids the Ranch experience at O’Keefe Ranch. The Ranch will be open Saturdays and Sundays leading up to Christmas from 10 AM-3 PM. They will have activities to keep you busy, such as bonfires with s’mores and other seasonal treats at the General Store.
BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops
Visit the animals at the BC Wildlife Park and see the holiday lights if you visit between December 13th – January 5th from 4:00 pm – 9:00pm nightly, excluding Christmas Day. They light up over 1 million lights at 5:00 pm each night. In partnership with the Canucks Autism Network, December 13th is a sensory-friendly evening.
Shop Local This Holiday Season
With this gift list, your kids will scream joyfully on Christmas morning—probably around 6 a.m. if they are anything like me! Who can contain the excitement of Christmas morning?
This list should make shopping with our local vendors from Kelowna, Vernon, Armstrong and Kamloops easy.
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