Keremeos is a friendly and safe, quaint small town, nestled amongst steep, majestic mountains on the banks of the Similkameen River, with “K Mountain” serving as the backdrop.  We are located in British Columbia’s Similkameen Valley which is in the South Okanagan.  With clean air and excellent water, we promote healthy living, with many outdoor activities in a natural environment. 

The Similkameen Valley is picturesque.  We are a green belt in the desert, with an abundance of orchards producing a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and wine grapes.  Our area contains hundreds of plant and animal species found only in our region.  Along some of the steep mountain slopes, California Big Horn Sheep and Mountain Goats can be seen grazing with their young.

There are two beliefs as to the meaning of “Keremeos”.  One story says Keremeos is an Indigenous expression meaning “meeting of the winds”.  The other theory is that it means “cut in two by water” or “water running through an open flat” in reference to the Keremeos Creek that runs from the Upper Benchlands down to the Similkameen River.

The Village of Keremeos was originally located on the Upper Bench about where the Bears Fruit Stand now stands, but was moved to its present location when the railway came in.  The present location was originally called nix^wina by the syilx Okanagan Nation.  Pocket Park, located downtown on the main street, was dedicated nix^wina Park on National Day of Truth and Reconciliation in 2024.  The railway is gone, and in its place is the “Rail Trail” running from one end of town to the other.

Historically, Keremeos has been a rural agricultural community.  In the past few years, we have been experiencing an increase in residential development, catering to the lovers of the Okanagan climate, who are looking for an affordable, quiet, small-town atmosphere.

We welcome you to our beautiful town to gaze upon the beautiful scenery and hope you can stay for a while!