Well it sure doesn't look like it, but Kelowna’s local shopping mall is celebrating a major milestone this week as it turns the big 5-0.
On Sept. 28 1971, Orchard Park mall opened its doors at a cost of $10 million on a former orchard that was considered to be ‘out of town’.
Its first two anchor tenants? Simpsons-Sears and The Bay which over the past 50 years have gone under serious renovations.
The old Sears location remains under renovation, but will bring about a new entrance and the arrival of Structube and Planet Fitness in early 2022.
“It’s a place to meet, reconnect and belong. Orchard Park provides residents of Kelowna, the Okanagan Valley, and the year-round 1.9 million tourists who frequent the area a superior shopping experience.”, said Catherine Whittingstall, Orchard Park’s General Manager.
Orchard Park remains the largest enclosed shopping centre between Calgary and Vancouver with over 160 retailers.
In response to the pandemic, Orchard Park is unable to hold a large event to celebrate the birthday bash but will instead be giving away free swag and gift cards.
Beach Radio/ The Lizard will be on location giving away 8 x $50 dollar gift cards every hour and tote bags to random shoppers.
Historical photos from the early days of the Shopping Centre will be on display next to Ardene over the weekend.
