Written for Kelowna Guide Magazine by Aura Rose – House of Rose Winery
Wine Tourism and the Okanagan Wine Festivals
With acres of high-quality vineyards and over 200 wineries, the Okanagan has become one of the ultra-premium wine producing regions in the world. There are options for every palette—red or white, sweet or dry—from established wineries and family-run estates alike.
In 1994, a group of local wineries and tourism operators founded the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society (OWFS), focused on raising awareness of the region’s growing industry. Today, OWFS works with communities and wineries, large and small, across the Okanagan to develop world-class wine showcases.
OWFS has hundreds of year-round offerings, including three annual signature events: The Winter Okanagan Wine Festival (January), Spring Okanagan Wine Festival (May), and Fall Okanagan Wine Festival (October)—the latter ranked among the Top 100 Events by the American Tourism Association. Featuring fine dining, wine tastings, tours, exhibits, performances, recreational opportunities, and even old-world grape stomps, these festivals showcase incredible wines while enhancing the Valley’s social and cultural landscape.
Visit www.thewinefestivals.com for information about the Okanagan’s wine industry, the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society, and upcoming events
Is it necessary to make reservations for wineries in Kelowna?
To ensure a seamless experience, it’s advisable to plan your Kelowna winery tastings in advance. Contact the wineries directly by phone or use online booking services. When engaging the services of wine tour companies, take advantage of the convenience of online reservations. This way, you can secure your spot and make the most of your visit. Learn more.
