Candlelight Concert - Vivaldi Four Seasons at The Laurel Packinghouse

Kelowna delivered a little bit of everything this past Friday—sun, wind, and a hint of drama—as we made our way to a candlelight concert at the Laurel Packinghouse. The walk from the car alone felt like a full sensory experience, with gusts of wind strong enough to make it memorable before we even stepped inside.

We arrived just after 6:10 p.m. for the 6:45 performance, and a steady line of concertgoers had already formed—always a good sign. As soon as the doors opened, the atmosphere shifted. The historic venue, one of Kelowna’s most recognizable heritage buildings, immediately set the tone. Originally constructed in 1917, the Laurel Packinghouse stands as a reminder of the Okanagan’s agricultural roots, when fruit packing was central to the region’s economy. Today, it has been thoughtfully preserved and repurposed as a cultural space, blending exposed wood beams, brickwork, and industrial character with an inviting, intimate feel that’s ideal for live performances.

Inside, the setting was transformed. Hundreds of candles lined the pathways and surrounded the stage, casting a warm, flickering glow that made the entire room feel both elegant and immersive. There’s something uniquely captivating about candlelight concerts in general—the combination of soft lighting, close seating, and live classical music creates an experience that feels far more personal than a traditional concert hall. It draws your attention not just to the music, but to the artistry and movement of the musicians themselves.

We made a point to arrive early to secure seats near the front (a strategic move for anyone who isn’t particularly tall), and settled into the second row with a clear view of the stage. The evening’s performance featured The Four Seasons by Vivaldi—an  instantly recognizable concerto, yet takes on new life in an intimate setting like this. The quartet from Vancouver delivered a beautiful, precise performance, and being seated so close offered a new appreciation for their technical skill. Watching the first violinist in particular was mesmerizing—her hands moved with such speed and control that they seemed almost blurred at times. The same could be said for the entire ensemble; each musician contributed to a performance that was as visually engaging as it was musically impressive.

For those who haven’t experienced a candlelight concert, it’s well worth adding to your list. Between the character of the Laurel Packinghouse, the thoughtfully curated atmosphere, and the quality of the performance, it’s an evening that feels both elevated and accessible. Events like this are a great reminder of the lifestyle Kelowna offers—not just beautiful homes and landscapes, but a growing arts and culture scene that continues to enrich the community.