Where to watch the 2026 Orionid Meteor Shower near Kelowna
A 78% lit moon will wash out the fainter meteors of Orionid Meteor Shower.
The short answer
Orionid Meteor Shower peaks on Wednesday, October 21 near Kelowna. Expect about 2.5 hours of moon-free darkness, with astronomical twilight ending at 7:42 PM and returning at 5:43 AM. The moon is 83 percent lit, so moonlight will wash out fainter meteors. At 12:42 AM the radiant sits 26 degrees up in the east. Under ideal dark skies the shower can produce up to 20 meteors an hour. 2 nearby spots have properly dark skies.
| Peak (local) | Wednesday, October 21 at 11:08 AM PDT |
|---|---|
| Sunset | 5:54 PM |
| Fully dark | 7:42 PM to 5:43 AM |
| Dark hours | 2.5 h |
| Moon | 83% lit · rises 4:22 PM, sets 3:14 AM |
Questions people ask
What is the best time to watch the Orionid Meteor Shower near Kelowna?
The Orionid Meteor Shower peaks on Wednesday, October 21, with the best viewing time starting after 7:42 PM when it is fully dark. The radiant point will be highest in the sky around 12:42 AM.
Where are the best places to watch the meteor shower near Kelowna?
Some great spots for viewing include the Big White Road Pullouts, Okanagan Lake Provincial Park, and Myra Canyon Trestles. These locations offer darker skies, which enhance your chances of seeing more meteors.
What will the moon be like during the meteor shower?
The moon will be 83 percent lit, rising at 4:22 PM and setting at 3:14 AM. This means there will be about 2.5 hours of moon-free darkness after sunset, which is ideal for meteor watching.
Which direction should I look to see the meteors?
You should look towards the east, where the radiant point of the meteor shower will be located. The radiant will be at an altitude of 26 degrees at around 12:42 AM.
What should I bring or expect while watching the meteor shower?
Be sure to bring a comfortable blanket or chair to sit on, warm clothing, and snacks. Expect to see around 20 meteors per hour under ideal conditions, but keep in mind that moonlight may wash out some fainter meteors.
