Penticton, located in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The name “Penticton” is derived from the Syilx (Okanagan) word “Sn’pinkét’n,” meaning “place to stay forever” or “place where water passes through.” The Syilx people were the original inhabitants of the region, relying on the area’s abundant natural resources for sustenance.

European settlers arrived in the 1860s, establishing a community centered around agriculture, particularly fruit growing. By the early 20th century, the arrival of the Kettle Valley Railway boosted Penticton’s economic growth, enabling the transport of fruit and goods across the region. Today, Penticton’s history is celebrated through museums, heritage sites, and cultural events.