The Ticket: Osoyoos Oyster Festival

It’s the most wonderful time of the year.

Where there is wine, oysters follow. Which is why, despite its distance from the ocean, The Oyster Festival in Osoyoos is back for an eighth annual celebration of all things bivalve. It’s a chance to spotlight the West Coast’s ethical oyster harvesters alongside the Okanagan’s stellar culinary and beverage scene, with a weekend of events featuring the region’s award-winning restaurants, wineries, brewers and cideries.

The fest kicks off with a traditional long table dinner at Miradoro restaurant, featuring a three-course oyster menu, and in the days to follow, the indulgence doesn’t let up for a second. There’s the oysters-and-sparkling-wine reception from the Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association (April 25) taking place at Black Hills Estate Winery; Indigenous-inspired food and signature cocktails on the vineyard patio of Spirit Ridge Resort (April 26); and a multi-course seafood feast at Watermark Beach Resort prepared by five guest chefs, complemented with the latest releases from the local wineries, of course (April 27). And on the final day of the celebration, the Artisan Food and Oyster Market will take over a block of downtown Oliver to feature fresh seafood, wines, craft beers, ciders and spirits along with food trucks and musicians to entertain visitors of all ages.

In addition, expect some oyster-themed treats from the local restaurants in the period of the festivities. Terrafina at Hester Creek will offer a Happy Hour deal from 3pm to 5 pm, while Convivia Bistro will host an oyster-inspired lunch on April 27.

For more information about the events and tickets, visit osoyoosoysterfestival.com.