Events: Okanagan in the Spring

The Okanagan produces some of the best food and wine in the country€”here’s how you can get a taste.

Visitors flock to the Okanagan to get a taste of the incredible wines that grow in the area, but the locals are just as fond of the regional bounty. It’s why the spring and summer are jam-packed with festivals celebrating the best of the OK… like the four awesome events below.MORE: Check out how to find the best Okanagan artisan fare here

1. Unleashed

The perfect event for those who love wine and puppies. Kelowna’s Lakeshore Wine Route paired up with the BCSPCA for the second year to create this hybrid event for wine-loving dog owners. You are invited to bring your dog to any of the participating wineries for treats and activities (for the dogs) and two complimentary canapé-paired wine tastings (for the humans).

The Details

When: April 30 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.Where: Four wineries across Kelowna – St. Hubertus, CedarCreek, Summerhill and TantalusTickets: Entry fee is by donation with a suggested minimum donation of $20, and all purchases go to BCSPCA.

2. Devour!

The world renowned food film festival Devour! makes its way to BC for the first time. The festival organizers, including chef Michael Howell, will be teaming up with local BC chefs to create delicious dishes from fresh ingredients sourced from the Okanagan region. There will be six short food films shown paired with six short courses and delicious Similkameen wines.

The Details

When: May 6-7Where: Watermark Beach Resort, OsoyoosTickets: Friday’s dinner including an East vs. West culinary showdown, canapés, music and dancing is $45 and tickets can be found here. Saturday’s 6 course wine paired dinner and food films is $65 and tickets can be found here. Sunday’s Mother’s Day Brunch is $39 and tickets can be found here.

 3. Spring Okanagan Wine Festival

The 10-day wine festival is spread across the Okanagan with many of the wineries celebrating the coming of spring and the awakening of the vines. Some of the various and plentiful events include light lunches, gourmet dinners and countless tastings. Stop by for an afternoon, a day or for the whole event to experience the wonderful wine culture of the Okanagan.

The Details

When: April 28 – May 8Where: Various wineries around the OkanaganTickets: Tickets are only required for some of the events, for more information visit the Okanagan Wine Festival Calendar of Events.

 4. Bacchanalia Food and Wine Event

This extensive food and wine event includes 60 Okanagan wineries, 240 local wines and mouth watering cuisine. Dress your best for this glam evening wine and food tasting.

The Details

When: April 30 7:00 to 10:00 p.m.Where: Penticton Lakeside Resort Grand BallroomTickets: $75 plus tax available here.