BNA officially confirms expansion to Penticton in old Slackwater space

At this point, it may just be the Okanagan’s worst kept secret.

BNA has finally confirmed that the Kelowna-based brewpub will be expanding its presence in the Okanagan once again, this time south to Penticton.

The latest addition to the BNA lineup will take up residence in a familiar Martin Street building that was once the Mule Nightclub, but more recently known as Slackwater Brewing.

Slackwater Brewing closed its taproom in Penticton in October, but continues to produce beer through a partnership with Port Moody’s Parkside Brewing.

It’s an exciting announcement for the Penticton community and it comes around two months after Nixon Hospitality opened the doors to BNA Vernon in mid-February.

The original BNA Brewing, a pioneer of Kelowna’s North End transformation over the past decade, opened back in 2015.

BNA Brewing was the start of a bit of an Okanagan empire for Nixon Hospitality, headed up by husband-wife duo Kyle and Carolyn.

Along with BNA Brewing, BNA Burger, Bernie’s Supper Club, Skinny Duke's Glorious Emporium and The Bohemian Cafe in Kelowna, the Nixon umbrella also includes Snowshoe Sam’s up at Big White and the recently-opened BNA Vernon.

Now their presence will expand south with the latest outpost of the popular Kelowna brewpub.

“We’ve always been inspired by Penticton,” Kyle noted. “As a brewery, we hold Fest of Ale in such high regard and have a lot of respect for the folks who host it.”

He added: “We’re so excited to pour our beer in a city that loves to drink it, and can’t wait to become a part of the amazing community.”

And while they will be pouring beer in Penticton soon enough, they won’t be brewing it there. Existing production facilities in Kelowna and Vernon will supply the new spot with all of BNA’s popular beers.

Beyond the beer, Penticton residents and visitors alike can expect a thoughtful food menu, comfortable gathering spaces and bowling lanes, which are a BNA staple.

“BNA Burger, the brewpub’s hit smash burger concept, will also find a place at this new operation,” a news release from Nixon Hospitality promised.

No opening date has been announced for the new BNA Penticton, but people are encouraged to lock in on the new joint’s Instagram account for updates over the coming weeks.