Drink in the South Okanagan This Autumn
There is no better time to celebrate local wine and tourism than during the sun-dappled
days of autumn, as festival season comes alive in Osoyoos
Autumn brings the gently sun-kissed days that make it a golden time for any style of South Okanagan getaway. It’s the ideal season for celebrating outdoor pursuits from golf to hiking, or to discover the tasting rooms, wineries and restaurants in the Osoyoos and Oliver areas — and even for some spooky, Halloween-season fun!
Experience these lively fall festivals and events happening throughout September and October. Whether you’re after adventure or a quiet retreat, Osoyoos and nearby Oliver provide plenty of inspiration for relaxing and enjoying autumn in the South Okanagan.
Wine Capital Weekend, September 20–22
With more than 70 beverage vendors, thrilling team challenges, family-friendly activities and unforgettable experiences, this event in Oliver is the ultimate seasonal celebration of fine South Okanagan wine. Highlights include an artisan merchant marketplace and a Kids Zone. The weekend kicks off on Friday, September 20, with live music at District Wine Village. Saturday brings the 8th Annual Cask & Keg Festival with tastings from 20 breweries and distilleries, along with the “Beer Olympics,” (a series of fun beer-related challenges). Sunday wraps up with the 25th Annual Festival of the Grape, featuring wines from more than 50 local wineries, live music and the legendary Grape Stomp Competition. More information and tickets available here.
Harvest Celebration Wine Dinner at Mythology Vineyard, September 21
Dig into a harvest celebration that brings together some of the best food and wine of the South Okanagan. A four-course dinner, thoughtfully prepared by Chef Chris Van Hooydonk of the popular Backyard Farm Chef’s Table, is paired with Mythology’s wines and spirits. It promises to be an unforgettable evening of exceptional food, rare wines and captivating storytelling about the region’s finest products, all delivered in a stunning vineyard setting. Tickets available here.
Dine With Us: An Intimate Dinner Series at Maverick Estate Winery, September 21 + October 3
This dinner series offers an intimate four-course meal packed with locally curated delicacies, which will be exquisitely paired with Maverick’s award-winning wines. Hosted by one of the winery’s principals, for the inside scoop on winemaking, and Hospitality Manager Janik Livera, who brings his culinary knowledge to the table, the exclusive evening even includes some special surprises for the very limited number of 14 guests. Tickets available here.
Fundraising Evening at Nk’Mip Cellars, September 28
The second annual Nk’Mip Cellars Fundraising Evening benefitting the Indian Residential School Survivors Society promises to be both a mindful and memorable occasion for all. Each ticket includes grazing at delectable gourmet food and Nk’Mip Cellars wine stations, a hoop dance performance by Dallas Arcand, plus silent auctions, raffle draws and much more. Tickets available here.
All Hallows Eve Festival, October 26 + 27
A family-friendly Halloween harvest-style event at Gyro Park in downtown Osoyoos celebrates a diverse sort of modern South Okanagan bounty: local artists. The third-annual All Hallows Eve is an accessible, by-donation community event that creates magical opportunities for cultural exchange through participatory performances. Festival-goers can join in on collective dance and circus-based activities; compete in costume contests; witness thrilling acts such as fire breathing, belly dancing, sword swallowing and world-class aerial acrobatics; and end the creative, art-filled day with a dance party. All Hallows is far from your average “sit-down and watch” style of festival — although attendees will want to watch unique events like Witches on the Water, a hilarious showcase of paddleboarding wizardry. Food trucks, live music and a Sunday vendor market are all part of the thrills. More information here.
For more information about events in Osoyoos, and to plan your next trip, visit: destinationosoyoos.com.
Media release and images provided by Morgan Sommerville, Serena PR.
