Simon St. Laurent, from Penticton, was one of the best-dressed pirates at last year’s Osoyoos Oyster Festival. (File photo)
One of the signature happenings of the South Okanagan’s springtime calendar, the Osoyoos Oyster Festival, returns for its eighth annual edition, from April 24 to 28.
No other event in the region offers so many opportunities to indulge in premium oysters from around the world, paired with the award-winning wines, beers, ciders and spirits for which the Okanagan is internationally renowned.
This year’s festival is additionally noteworthy for being the first to fall under the direction of Jon and Anne-Marie Crofts, owners of Kelowna’s beloved Codfather’s Seafood Market. The Crofts have been newly entrusted with the festival by Destination Osoyoos, which produced it in previous years. The Crofts have been deeply involved with the Osoyoos Oyster Festival from the beginning, sourcing all of its oysters from Codfather’s roster of esteemed global suppliers.
“Anne-Marie and I are delighted to be collaborating with some of the South Okanagan’s most talented food, drink and hospitality professionals to bring an exciting celebration of oysters, seafood and beverages to Osoyoos and Oliver,” says Jon.
“When these treasures of the sea are paired with the amazing wines, ciders, beers and spirits of the South Okanagan, the reason this event exists becomes clear. We look forward to welcoming guests from the region and beyond — as well as some of the best ethical and sustainable seafood harvesters on the West Coast — to our wonderful valley.”
A wine pairing competition will also take place during the festival with a team of expert judges determining which South Okanagan wines pair best with oysters. Results of the Oyster Wine Competition will be announced during the Seafood Soiree at Watermark Beach Resort on April 27.
In addition at a full lineup of events every day, an oyster-inspired Happy Hour will be taking place at Terrafina at Hester Creek by RauDZ from 3 to 5 p.m. on April 24 – 27, and Convivia Bistro in Osoyoos will be offering a special oyster-inspired lunch on April 27.
For more information regarding the full Oyster Festival lineup, along with accommodation offers from local resorts, Spirit Ridge and Watermark Beach Resort, visit osoyoosoysterfestival.com.
