Last year the lights, liquids, tastes and talents of the South Okanagan brightened the early days of winter with an inaugural festival that sparked a new seasonal tradition. The South Okanagan Fire & Ice Festival is back, beckoning locals and visitors to embrace the change of seasons at family-friendly performances and events – including a signature Fire & Ice Carnival at Spirit Ridge Resort.
A unique collaboration among the Osoyoos Indian Band, Oliver Tourism Association, and Destination Osoyoos, the Festival takes place from November 24 through December 3 and brings the best venues, products and performers from the region together for a must-see celebration of the South Okanagan’s finest.
Pick and choose from a week of stellar events, or plan a South Okanagan vacay or staycation with accommodation specials available at: southokanaganfireandice.com.
SIGNATURE EVENTS:
November 24
Oliver Light Up (Oliver Visitor Centre)
Lights! Fireworks! Action! A can’t-miss family event brings sparkle to the sweater-weather and the upcoming holiday season. Entertainment and a cozy bonfire are also highlights of this community celebration. visitoliver.com/events-tickets
November 25, 1–5 pm
Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre Artisan Market (Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, Osoyoos)
Indigenous artists take the spotlight at this assembly of artisanal talent: shop one-of-a-kind items that are perfect for gifting during the holiday season ahead. nkmipdesert.com
November 25, 6–9 pm
South Okanagan Fire & Ice Carnival (Spirit Ridge Resort, Osoyoos)
This spectacular event curates fine artisan wineries, cideries and distilleries of the region alongside elevated carnival-style food pairings. Animated by roving performers and fire dancers by Kinshira Entertainment, and live roots music by Brent Tyler, the evening not only includes bites and sample sips but a souvenir wine glass to take home. Don’t forget to dress in your fire- or ice-inspired costume, to be in the running for an Osoyoos getaway prize! Tickets (guests must be 19+, with identification) are available from Eventbrite now.
With so much more taking place during the festival, don’t miss these local happenings – more events are being added regularly, so visit southokanaganfireandice.com often.
- Nov 18 – Dec 24: 12 Days of Christmas Artisan Market at Nostalgia Wines (weekends)
- Nov 24 – 26 and Dec 1 – 3: Winter in Wine Country Fondue Party at VinAmité Cellars
- Nov 24 – 26 and Dec 1 – 3: Winter in Wine Country tastings at Moon Curser Vineyards
- Nov 25: Osoyoos Christmas Market at Watermark Beach Resort
- Nov 28: Fire & Ice Long Table Dinner at Miradoro
- Dec 1: Fire & Ice Dinner at Nk’Mip Cellars
- Dec 1 and 2: Osoyoos Lite Up & Parade in downtown Osoyoos and Traditional European-Style Market at Osoyoos Town Hall Square
- Dec 2: Jingle Bell Run at The Sonora Centre
