“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us,” notes an anonymous quote. In such spirit, Osoyoos beckons you with Canada’s warmest welcome to explore each season in this dynamic region.
Osoyoos is nestled within grasslands, highlands and mountains, and hosts the warmest lake in Canada—ensuring diverse activities year-round. In fall, you can still hit the links and beaches on the same day, plus partake in culinary adventures. Amid a backdrop of fall foliage, live your best life.
Work Up an Appetite with Outdoor Adventure
The mild fall weather sets the stage for diverse outdoor adventures. It’s the perfect time for SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), kayaking, fishing, golf, hiking, mountain biking and more. Or visit the Osoyoos Desert Centre, rich with fall wildlife, to learn about this microclimate.
Explore Indigenous Ways
Rooted deeply in Indigenous culture and history, Osoyoos traces its name from sẁiẁs (pronounced “soo-yoos”), meaning “narrowing of the waters” in nsyilxcən, the language of the Syilx people of the Okanagan Nation.
Fall is the best time to view Spotted Lake, known to the Syilx people as kłlilx’w, a sacred site and revered place of healing for centuries. The belief is each of the different circles holds distinctive medicinal and healing properties. From the Highway 3 West pullout, observe Spotted Lake and respect that entry beyond the gate isn’t permitted into this sacred site.
At the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, immerse yourself in the past, present and future of the Osoyoos Indian Band. This state-of-the-art interpretive centre is an architectural marvel, sensitively constructed into the hillside. Extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits create fun, interactive learning with hands-on displays, education stations and two multi-media theatre experiences. Learn about desert ecology and wildlife along with Osoyoos Indian Band history.
You can even get a close look at a rattlesnake or sign up for a hike/rappelling excursion in the desert. Browse Coyote’s Gifts for unique Indigenous crafts, jewelry and giftware mementos.
Don’t miss Nk’Mip Cellars, distinguished as the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America and known for its international award-winning wines. A modern initiative, Nk’Mip Cellars is a bold expression of Indigenous culture and a strong reflection of a commitment to authenticity and deep respect for the colourful past.
On the Wine, Cider, Beer and Spirits Trail
Tasting room crowds lessen in September/October, yet wineries are action-packed: it’s harvest time! Witness grapes plucked from the vines and delivered to winery crush pads with sweet aromas and rich colours hinting at flavours you’ll sip later.
In the South Okanagan, fruit is abundant, including the wide variety of apples at their peak for the season of cider. Discover the delicious variations at Orchard Hill Estate Cidery, Bordertown Cider & Winery, and Maverick Cider Co., to name a few locations.
Smack-dab in the centre of Osoyoos, craft beer is flowing at North Basin Brewing Co. Taste their mainstays and seasonal creations while supporting another local business by ordering or bringing in food to pair with your beer. Food trucks are regularly on site, and you’ll find local snacks from suppliers such as The Lake Village Bakery or Oliver Eats.
Osoyoos’ own Tumbleweed Spirits Craft Distillery keeps spirits warm with fall favourites like Buckie’s Apple Pie Moonshine and Fireweed Whisky. Linger over craft cocktails and bites in Tumbleweed’s cocktail lounge.
From Sips and Snacks to Culinary Hotspots
Fruit stands and farmers’ markets offer an abundance of fresh and preserved produce and other goodies. Crisp apples, lush pears, brightly coloured squash and freshly baked pies are fine examples of the fall finds.
The talented chefs of this region love to leverage the best of fall’s bounty, so peruse the restaurants’ daily specials and fresh sheets. With this same philosophy of culinary celebration, check out the many harvest and wine club dinners available.
Fall Events for Your Checklist
While quenching your thirst on the wine, cider, beer and spirits trail, consider special events and live music planned by individual venues and collectively, including:
- Osoyoos Farmers’ Market (Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm until October 1, Town Hall Square)
- Horse Barrel Racing (select Thursdays until October 6, Desert Park Equine Facility and Racetrack)
- Osoyoos Dragon Boat Flag Race (September 17, Safari Beach Resort)
- The first-ever Osoyoos Pride Arts Festival (September 24, Gyro Park)
- Fall Festival Weekend (September 30–October 2), bringing together breweries, wineries, distilleries, artisans, musicians and eateries for three days of family-friendly fun. Featured are the kickoff party with a live performance by The Trews (September 30, District Wine Village); Cask & Keg, a celebration of BC beer, cider and spirits (October 1, Oliver Community Park); and Festival of the Grape, with its world-renowned Grape Stomp Competition (October 2, Oliver Community Park).
- All Hallow’s Festival (October 30, Gyro Park)
See destinationosoyoos.com for all the details.