Planning a convention takes a lot of research, and we know you are comparing destinations, venues, hotel inventory, and budgets. Below are the questions we hear most from planners. 

Q: Where is Penticton? 

A: Nestled between two beautiful lakes, Penticton is located in the heart of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, approximately a one-hour drive south of Kelowna and a five-hour drive east of Vancouver. 

Fly direct to Penticton (yes, we have an airport!) from both Vancouver and Calgary. The Convention Centre is less than 10 minutes from the airport. Delegates can also fly to Kelowna.  

Q: What is the best fit for the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre? 

A: Our Convention Centre is ideally suited for programs for 150 to 650 delegates, with a trade show component of up to 70 10’ x 10’ booths and six to eight concurrent breakout sessions.

For larger programs, the Convention Centre is connected to a 5,000-seat arena, adding another 17,000 sq. ft. of event space for 700+ at rounds or up to 100 10’ x 10’ booths.  

Q: What is your food and beverage minimum spend? 

A: Food and beverage is often one of the largest line items in your budget and one of the most memorable pieces for delegates. Our in-house food and beverage team collaborates with clients based on taste and price point.   

We hear from many clients about the challenges of a food and beverage minimum spend. We are different. As a smaller centre and community, rather than applying a standard minimum to every event, we review each convention individually. In some cases, food and beverage minimums can be waived.  

Q: What makes Penticton an attractive convention destination? 

A: As a meeting and convention destination, Penticton is walkable and safe. There are over 80 wineries within a 20-minute drive, five kilometres of sandy public beaches, 150 regional trails, eight craft breweries, and BC’s best farmers’ market. It's a destination that encourages delegates to extend their stay and make the most of their time in the South Okanagan. 

Q: Why do planners and associations keep coming back to Penticton? 

A: We know planners have plenty of choices, which is why we focus on flexibility, transparency, and value. Our experienced team works closely with clients from proposal to event debrief, providing straightforward contracts, customizable menus, and tailored solutions for each event.

Our flexible space adapts to each program’s requirements, while room rentals include many of the essentials planners often pay extra for including stages, podiums, Wi-Fi, and parking. 

For exhibitors and delegates, the experience is just as important. Complimentary parking, easy load-in access, and a facility designed to encourage face-to-face networking help create successful events. For many clients, it comes down to fewer surprises, more value, and a team that is dedicated to making your convention a success. 

Ready to bring your next convention to Penticton?  
Connect with our team to request a custom quote or schedule a site visit.
Laura Hunt, Director of Sales | Laura.Hunt@oakviewgroup.com 
pentictonconventioncentre.com