By Times Chronicle Staff
While the Half Corked Marathon may be sold out, the Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country is hosting an array of events revolving around wine, food and entertainment enabling everyone to get into the spirit and enjoy the Half Corked fun.
The events which include the Primavera Party, Party at the Finish Line, Krystel Dos Santos Concert, and a Charity Pancake Breakfast will take place on the weekend from May 30 to June 1. The Half Corked takes flight on Saturday, May 31.
“This is a weekend like no other,” said Jennifer Busmann, Executive Director of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country.
“Whether you’re running the marathon, attending one of our exciting events, or simply enjoying the region’s stunning vineyards, there’s something for everyone. The weekend’s ‘Disco‘ theme adds a fun twist to the celebration of everything that makes our wine country so special.”
Casa Molina prepares food at the 2024 Primavera Dinner. Aaron Hagen / OOWC photo
The weekend gets its traditional kick off with the ever-popular Primavera Party which will be hosted at Over the Fence Winery this year.
Set amid the winery’s scenic vineyards in Osoyoos wine and paired appetizers will be served amongst the vines as guests make their way to the tented tables on the crush pad.
With a backdrop of wine barrels and stunning views, a multi-course dinner will be prepared by Vancouver’s Casa Molina the restaurant of Chef Javier Blanc known to many for his The Paella Guys catering. The specially prepared menu will feature inspiration from the heart of Spanish kitchens created from simple but exceptional ingredients.
After dinner, dance the evening away to live music before enjoying a safe ride home to Oliver, Osoyoos or Penticton. Limited tickets are available at $129.99 + tax per guest.
Rollin’ with the Flintstones! Aaron Hagen / OOWC photo
The traditional Party at the Finish Line on Saturday, May 31 from 1-3 pm will offer the opportunity to celebrate the arrival of the tired but ecstatic costume clad Half Corked runners while enjoying wine tastings and paella from The Paella Guys.
The event is at the Oliver Community Park and is free for all guests. Wine tastings are available to purchase at $25 + tax (included for Half Corked Marathon participants).
And new this year is a concert on Saturday, May 31 in the evening at Tinhorn Creek. Canadian jazz, R&B and pop singer Krystle Dos Santos will be performing offering up the combination of great music, a stunning view and award winning wine. Tickets from $65 + tax per guest.
Aaron Hagen / OOWC photo
Also new this year is a Charity Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, June 1 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Hosted between the vines at Nostalgia Wines, $15 of the $25 ticket price will go directly to the Leukemia / Bone Marrow Transplant Program at Vancouver General Hospital. The ticket includes a tasty pancake breakfast paired with Nostalgia Wines’ Chantilly Lace Mimosa.
Celebrating 17 years, the sold out 22 km Half Corked Marathon weaves participants through the vineyards and valleys of the region’s iconic wine-growing areas. Winery stations dot the route culminating in the Finish Line Party, where runners receive a fresh paella lunch while enjoying live music and more local wines in the lush park setting.
Visit oliverosoyoos.com for more information and ticketing.
