In 1995, the first Spring Wine Festival was
developed as the best way to kick start the new wine season. The introduction of the
Spring Festival also allowed the Wine Tourism industry to have two flagship events at the
start and end of the growing season.The Spring Wine Festival is
entering its 8th year in 2002. It is shorter in length being 4 days on the opening
weekend in May to correspond with Apple Blossom season throughout the Okanagan. The
Spring Festival in 2001 featured over 50 events, many of them similar in design to
those found during the Fall Festival. The Spring Festival has provided
affordable events for residents and tourists alike. While there are a number of
exclusive events, the majority of events allow tourist an affordable opportunity to
experience Wine Tourism.
A trip to the Okanagan Valley offers unique opportunities to visit some of the
most beautiful and picturesque wineries in the world.The wines and wineries area is as
diverse as the friendly hosts and propietors you will meet as you explore the
valley.
The Okanagan Valley, British Columbia's oldest and largest wine producing area,
has a grape growing history that began in the late 1800's. The valley, which shares
the same northern latitudes as Germany's famous wine regions, features 3 major lakes:
Kalamalka in the north, Lake Okanagan in the centre and Skaha in the south. British
Columbian wines continue to win international awards and attention.
