If you’re looking to make an escape from the city, be sure to set your sights on slipping out of the office a bit early to make the five-hour journey to Osoyoos for this must-do festival that’s all about the sustainable oysters produced by local, West Coast farmers and guilds. Making the march even more slurp-worthy, this event also caters to celebrating award-winning BC wines from the Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association. Slurp and sip…can we say yum?
If you go, be sure to check into the Walnut Beach Resort; it’s the official sponsor of the festival and a guaranteed hub of activities and fun for the weekend. With rates starting under $80, it’s the perfect option for young professionals looking to respectfully indulge. It’s a quick trip to the festival events taking place all weekend from the resort – and there are plenty to keep you busy.
Whether its official oyster-centric events that you’re after, wine tastings (courtesy of the Oliver and Osoyoos Winery Association), or one of the many special dinners taking place (on our radar: grab tickets to the Terrafina Pizza and Oyster tasting featuring Hester Creek Wines for only $45), you’re guaranteed a great time doing some laidback socializing.
Also happening during the OOOyster Festival (as it’s been dubbed), the Oyster Brew Party kicks off on Friday featuring live music and entertainment courtesy of the Gala Vanters, local beer, cider, wine and food samples. Follow this up by attending Saturday’s signature event, Art of the Oyster, back at the Walnut Beach Resort. Take in the stunning waterfront scenery during this afternoon event as you peruse the oyster creations courtesy of top regional restaurants and chefs.
Dress up cocktail casual as you mix and mingle your way around the room, stopping at various stations featuring expertly paired dishes and BC wines. Representing their goods at the event will be Burrowing Owl Winery and the Sonora Room, Mica Restaurant at Spirit Ridge Resort, Terrafina and Hester Creek Winery, Watermark Resort and Covert Farms, as well as Tinhorn Creek Winery and Miradoro Restaurant.
Having fuelled up on wine-infused fun, keep the party going and head to Helen’s Seafood Cove and the Sage Pub for the 2nd Okanagan Amateur Shuck and Suck Competition. Catch the shucking action as teams are pitted against each other in hopes of claiming the Best Shuck N’ Sucker team title. Chill out to live music, DJ beats and plenty of oysters, of course.
For a full listing of festival events, click here.