Every month offers unique celebrations and events, making Osoyoos an exciting place to visit throughout the year. Here's a month-by-month look at a variety of events for you and yours to celebrate and enjoy the community of Osoyoos.
January: Winterfest at District Wine Village
January in Osoyoos kicks off with Winterfest at the District Wine Village. As part of the Okanagan Winter Wine Festival, this event is perfect for wine lovers. The TASTE Passport offers six vouchers redeemable for curated wine pairings and beverage experiences. It's a cozy way to enjoy the winter season, surrounded by the charm of Canada's first wine village.
February: Romance of the South Okanagan
February is all about celebrating love and winter's charm. Snow blankets the rolling hills and vineyards while parts of Osoyoos Lake freeze over, adding to the serene landscape. It's the perfect time for romantic outings or family gatherings at local wineries and restaurants, offering special events and menus for Valentine's Day and Family Day.
March: Slush Cup at Baldy Mountain Resort
The Slush Cup marks the end of ski season at Baldy Mountain Resort in March. This event brings a fun twist to the slopes, where participants dress in creative costumes and attempt to skim across a pit of icy water. It's a playful and spirited way to say goodbye to winter and welcome spring.
April: Osoyoos Oyster Festival
October is the month for seafood lovers, with the Osoyoos Oyster Festival showcasing local oysters and seafood paired with wines from the Okanagan Valley. It's a culinary delight that brings together foodies and wine enthusiasts for a memorable tasting experience.
May: Osoyoos Spring Music Festival & Half Corked Marathon
May is a lively month with two significant events. The Osoyoos Spring Music Festival offers multiple days of musical performances, both free and ticketed, at various venues around town. The Half Corked Marathon, a highlight for wine enthusiasts, features a 19km route through vineyards with wine sampling stations. Participants often wear quirky costumes, adding a festive atmosphere to the race.
June: National Indigenous Peoples Day
June features National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated with the Osoyoos Indian Band. This event honours Indigenous culture and history through various activities, performances, and educational opportunities. It's a meaningful way to learn about and appreciate the rich traditions of the local Indigenous community.
July: Canada Day and Cherry Fiesta
July brings the Canada Day celebrations and the Cherry Fiesta. The festivities include a parade, live music, fireworks, and cherry-themed activities. It's one of the year's most anticipated events, drawing locals and visitors to celebrate Canada's birthday with a unique Osoyoos twist.
August: Mount Kobau Star Party
The Mount Kobau Star Party, a popular annual event for astronomy enthusiasts, will take place from August 3 to August 11, 2024, marking its 40th anniversary. Held on the summit of Mount Kobau, near Osoyoos, BC, the event features a week of stargazing, lectures, and astrophotography contests. Attendees can enjoy the clear night skies to observe celestial bodies and participate in various activities, including talks by noted astronomers like Murray Paulson and Peter Ceravolo. The event caters to both seasoned astronomers and enthusiastic beginners, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in astronomy.
September: Wine Capital Weekend
The Wine Capital Weekend near Osoyoos is a three-day celebration of South Okanagan's wine and craft beverage scene. Highlights include the Festival of the Grape, wine tastings, live music, local cuisine, and the iconic Grape Stomp Competition, alongside family-friendly activities and artisan markets.
October: All Hallows Festival
The All Hallows Festival in Osoyoos is an annual Halloween-themed event celebrating art, community, and creativity through live music, dance, aerial performances, and interactive workshops. Hosted by the Wide Arts National Association, highlights include the "Witches on the Water" paddleboarding showcase, a vibrant vendor market, and family-friendly activities like costume contests and circus workshops.
November: South Okanagan Fire & Ice Festival
November's South Okanagan Fire & Ice Festival combines fire-themed performances with ice sculptures, creating a captivating event. This festival includes community concerts and markets, celebrating the unique blend of heat and chill as summer transitions to fall.
December: Osoyoos Christmas Lite-Up
The holiday season begins with the Osoyoos Christmas Lite-Up in December. This event features a parade, community light-ups, and festive activities, creating a joyful atmosphere to kickstart the holiday season. It's a beautiful way to get into the holiday spirit with family and friends.
