Taking place in Whistler every weekend throughout November, Cornucopia is still the most delicious fun you can have in the mountains this fall. Supplied photo

Add these wine-soaked events to your schedule.

Okanagan Fall Wine Festival

October 1 to 18
The big festival that usually sprawls throughout the valley’s fall calendar is a lot smaller this year. So far, only a handful of events have been confirmed, and they will look a lot different with scaled-down tastings, pairings, lunches and the like. That said, one event is still set to make a splash—the province’s most prestigious wine competition, the third annual British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Awards. It is a merger of the province’s two premier judging competitions and is presided over by the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Judging is taking place September 23 to 25. thewinefestivals.com/fall

This year’s Pig Out festival has evolved into a “trail” winding through Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country. Leila Kwok photo

Pig OUT

October 10
Most years, hungry folks descend on Covert Farm for grilled sausages, charcuterie and other meaty treats. This time, the annual Pig Out festival has evolved into a “trail” winding through Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country. Small groups of guests will travel by coach to four secret winery stops, each offering a specially curated self-guided tasting experience and pork-themed dish. The main course of this progressive dinner will be plated and served by a guest chef. Experiences will adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols, and there are sure to be special treats and pleasant surprises along the way. Tickets are $69 for adults and $35 for youth. oliverosoyoos.com

Cornucopia

November 6 to 29
It’s pretty safe to say there won’t be any naked sushi this year. But Cornucopia is still the most delicious fun you can have in the mountains this fall. The 24th annual celebration of Whistler food and drink will take place every weekend throughout November, featuring more than 36 drink seminars, a dozen culinary experiences involving Whistler and Vancouver chefs, and winemaker dinners at restaurants such as Fairmont Château Whistler’s Grill Room. Special hotel rates will be available, so book now. whistlercornucopia.com

Fortify

November 24
For those in the business of fermenting and distilling, the annual Fortify conference has become an essential event on the calendar. The third annual instalment goes virtual, making it even more accessible to more people at a time when it’s never been more important. Sessions will cover topics such as financial planning, HR strategies, marketing and best practices for health, safety and COVID-19 regulations. fortifyconference.ca

Vitis Magazine

Vitis is is an indispensable seasonal guide for vintners, sommeliers and weekend imbibers alike that is dedicated to British Columbia’s rapidly evolving wine culture.