Well… kind of. At least it’s not snowing! I don’t mind the cool, wet spring and beginning of summer. It’s a nice change from previous years’ “smoke season.” And with summer comes summer vacation, beaches, travel, winery events, visits and tastings. Yes, the Okanagan is indeed open for business! While wineries are still assessing damages from last winter’s extreme-cold event, and while there may be a small harvest for some (unfortunately, none for others), there is still wine to sell, events to attend and a 3 billion dollar industry — with an estimated 12,000 jobs — to support.
Events Close to Home:
This year, I am helping out Judy Basso, Owner and Coordinator of Judy Basso Events with the Kamloops Wine and Beverage Festival. In its 26th year, the 2024 festival features over 50 food and beverage vendors, wineries, cideries, distilleries and mocktails. KWF kicks off with the ever popular “Cheese The Day” on Thursday, May 30 2024 in Kamloops at the Colombo Lodge. Starting at 6:30 pm, Comedian and Canadian Cheese Ambassador, David Beaudoin (aka ‘The Squeaky Cheese Guy‘) is pulling out all the stops to create an amazing tasting experience for attendees. On Saturday, June 1 2024, there are two Grand Tasting Events at the Colombo Lodge (2:00 to 4:00 pm and 7:30 to 9:30 pm) with both sessions showcasing an incredible variety of food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This year, a portion of the funds raised from the KWF will flow back to Rotary International as is the mandate of the festival’s commitment to give back to community.