Spring brings bud break in the vineyard, new releases for us to try, and events to celebrate the grape. Wineries have some creative and fun events taking place during the annual Okanagan Spring Wine Festival, which runs from May 1 to 12. Here are a few must-attend events (for a complete list visit the Kelowna Visitor Centre to pick up your guide or view them online at thewinefestivals.com):

1. WestJet Wine Tastings – May 3 + 4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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This popular event is a great place to try samples from more than 60 Okanagan wineries. Attend either Friday, May 3 or Saturday, May 4. Gather your friends and head out for a wine tour all under one roof. Tickets are $79 and the event takes place in Kelowna’s Cultural District at the Rotary Centre for the Arts.


2. Unleashed at Kelowna’s Lakeshore Wine Route – May 4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Grab your dog and head out for a few hours to sip wine, let your dog run free in the vineyard, snack on tasty bites, and enjoy the outdoors. I previously took one of my dogs to this event, hosted by the wineries of the Lakeshore Wine Route, and she loved it; she made new friends and got her photo taken in the photo booth while I enjoyed the new wine releases. Tickets are $20 with proceeds going to the BC SPCA.


3. Yoga and Brunch at Volcanic Hills Winery – May 5
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Another great way to spend your Sunday. Start with a yoga session with a yoga instructor from Oranj Fitness then enjoy a three-course brunch from Blu Saffron Bistro paired with Volcanic Hills wines. Tickets are $60 each. After brunch head to the tasting room for complimentary wine tastings and free glass inscriptions on glassware and wine bottles.


4. Putting and Bubbles – May 11
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Another great pairing - golf and wine! This is a brand new event hosted by the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society and sounds like it will be a great time for everyone as you put your way through enjoying white, bubble and rose wines. Tickets are $75 and you’ll be golfing at Sunset Ranch Golf & Country Club.


5. Sip with your Senses - A Wine & Garden Event – May 12
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Hosted by the Westside Wine Trail, this event will have you see, swirl, smell, and sip wines at each winery. Attendees will also be able to take home seeds from the wineries to help you start on your floral, herb, and vegetable gardens back home. This event is free with complimentary tastings at wineries from 12-5 p.m.