Since 1985, Heritage Awards have been presented to people, buildings, and sites in the Central Okanagan. Some of the categories have changed over the years to be more diverse, accessible, and inclusive as the term ‘heritage' has evolved. The heritage awards are presented during Heritage Week each year. Heritage Week is the third week in February, with local heritage and cultural organizations celebrating together by hosting various events in the Central Okanagan.
The Central Okanagan Heritage Society will accept nominations anytime until the end of November 2024 for the 2025 Heritage Awards celebration in February.
The categories include:
- Distinguished Community Service: Awarded to a person or persons in recognition of their service to the community in the heritage field. To nominate in this category please provide the person's name and contact information, and a brief write-up outlining their service and accomplishments in heritage conservation. Please include contact information.
- Conservation project on a heritage building currently in non-residential use: Awarded to a non-residential building that has recently undergone an exterior restoration and/or rehabilitation. The high standards, innovation and commitment to heritage conservation are recognized. To nominate a building, please give the address, the current owner’s name, and a little history about the building and the conservation project. Please include Contact information and photographs.
- Conservation project on a heritage building currently in residential use: Awarded to a residential building that has recently undergone an exterior restoration and/or rehabilitation. The high standards, innovation and commitment to heritage conservation are recognized. To nominate a building, please give the address, the current owner’s name, and a little history about the building and the conservation project. Please include Contact information and photographs.
- Continued conservation of a heritage building: Awarded to a building to recognize the high quality of its exterior preservation and maintenance over the years, in keeping with its original design and structure. To nominate a building, please give the address, the current owner, and a little history about the building. Please include Contact information and photographs.
- Preservation or restoration of a neighborhood or area: Awarded to a neighbourhood or area that has largely remained unchanged over time or has been revitalized through the restoration and/or rehabilitation of its buildings and streetscape. To nominate a neighbourhood or area, please give us the addresses, a contact person, and a little history about the neighbourhood or area. Please include Contact information and photographs.
- Special Heritage Project: To recognize and honour special projects and accomplishments in the Central Okanagan. This may include advocacy, awareness and planning heritage and historical projects. To nominate a project, please give us the addresses, a contact person, and a little history about the project. Please include Contact information and photographs.
If you have any questions or would like to submit a nomination, please email COHS at cohs@telus.net or call the office at 250-861-7188.
COHS Heritage Awards 1985 to 2024
2024 Heritage Award Winners
2023 Heritage Award Winners
2022 Heritage Award Winners
2021 Heritage Award Winners