Experience the Sweet Side of Kelowna’s Harvest: Okanagan Blackberry Fest with Wine & Charcuterie
Imagine spending a couple of relaxing hours in a scenic farm setting just outside Kelowna, where the air is filled with the scent of ripe blackberries and the promise of local wines and tasty bites. For $43.37 per person, this Okanagan Blackberry Fest offers a delightful mix of farm fun, culinary treats, and craft beverages, making it a perfect escape into authentic Okanagan countryside life. Led by Meadow Vista Honey Wines, this tour lasts around two hours and is designed for those who crave a taste of local bounty with a side of picturesque views.
What drew us in initially was the chance to pick our own blackberries—a simple activity that felt wonderfully immersive—and enjoy a local wine flight paired with charcuterie outdoors. The experience also includes a blackberry cocktail or mocktail on arrival, which is a refreshing way to start, especially if you’re visiting during the fall harvest season. We appreciated the relaxed, farm-to-table vibe and the chance to learn about honey and bees—an added bonus that makes this experience stand out from typical winery tours.
A couple of considerations: Since the tour is about two hours and involves some outdoor walking and picking, it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility and patience for farm activities. Also, while the experience is private and intimate, the price is quite reasonable for the quality and authenticity offered. If you’re traveling with children or family, this experience is especially family-friendly with activities for kids, and the non-alcoholic options are readily available.
This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back, hands-on farm experience combined with regional wine and food. It’s ideal for those who want to see a different side of Kelowna beyond the vineyards—more local, more personal, and more delicious.
Key Points
- Authentic farm experience with blackberry picking and honey tasting
- Relaxed outdoor setting with farm-to-table charcuterie and wine flights
- Family-friendly activities including bee tours and lawn games
- Affordable and private: great value for the intimate experience
- Seasonal and local: highlighting the blackberry harvest in fall
- Educational component about bees and honey, plus tastings
A Deep Dive into the Okanagan Blackberry Fest Experience
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The Location and Setting
The tour begins at a charming farm located at 3975 June Springs Rd, just outside Kelowna. It’s a peaceful spot, surrounded by fields and rolling hills, illustrating why the Okanagan Valley is such a prized agricultural area. As you arrive, you’re greeted with the scent of ripening blackberries and the rustling leaves of the farm—immediately setting a tone of rustic authenticity.
The outdoor setting is perfect for those who enjoy fresh air and scenic views. The farm’s bistro patio offers a comfortable space to relax while sampling local wines and charcuterie. The relaxed ambiance really enhances the experience, making it feel more like visiting a friend’s farm than a commercial tour.
The Activities: From Blackberry Picking to Honey Tasting
We liked that the experience is interactive from the start. Upon arrival, you’re offered a blackberry cocktail or mocktail, which is a lovely touch that caters to both drinkers and non-drinkers. The blackberry sangria—a new addition—was especially refreshing and made with fresh, local berries.
One of the highlights is the U-pick activity, where you’re handed a clamshell to gather your own pints of ripe blackberries. This activity is simple but satisfying, and it allows you to take home a fresh sample of the farm’s harvest. This kind of direct, hands-on activity is what makes farm experiences memorable; you’re not just observing, you’re participating.
After the picking, it’s time to indulge in a local charcuterie platter featuring meats, cheeses, pickles, jams, and organic crostini. The emphasis on local, artisanal products really shines through, and gluten-free options are available, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions. The charcuterie pairs beautifully with the wine flight—sparkling wines included—that showcase regional varieties. The wine selection was praised for its quality, and the pairing elevates the tasting experience without feeling pretentious.
For dessert, you’ll enjoy a handmade blackberry treat—a small but flavorful sweet that complements the fresh berries perfectly. To finish, guests receive a jar of Blackberry Blossom honey, a delightful souvenir that adds a sweet note to the day.
The Educational Elements & Farm Tours
An extra feature is the self-guided or audio Bee Tour, which introduces you to the importance of bees in agriculture and honey production. We appreciated the chance to learn about local honey and beekeeping, gaining insight into how vital bees are to the ecosystem and local economy. Kids also get a special activity sheet and prizes, making it a family-friendly outing.
Practical Details & Logistics
The entire experience is designed to be private, meaning your group will enjoy a personalized visit without crowds. It’s easy to find and near public transportation, making it accessible even if you’re not driving. The duration—just about two hours—is perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon outing, and the price includes all tastings, activities, and take-home goodies.
Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind should your plans change. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children under five (who don’t need tickets). It’s a flexible, value-rich way to taste local flavors and enjoy farm life without a long commitment.
What the Reviews Say
Though limited, the reviews are glowing. One Tripadvisor review describes it as a “small but amazing place,” praising the self-guided tour and the blackberry sangria as “amazing.” The reviewer also notes the lovely charcuterie and wine and mentions the gifts—all of which align with what we experienced ourselves.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re a lover of local produce, wine, and authentic farm experiences, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for families, as it offers kid-friendly activities and a relaxed pace, and for anyone wanting to dip into Kelowna’s agricultural side beyond vineyards. The delightful combination of picking berries, tasting regional wines, and learning about honey makes it a well-rounded outing for those who want an engaging, tasty, and memorable taste of the Okanagan.
Travelers seeking a slow-paced, interactive, and family-friendly activity that combines nature, food, and local culture will find this tour both enjoyable and valuable. It’s not overly commercial or rushed—more like visiting a good friend’s farm, where every detail is crafted with care.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
It runs about 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and there are kid-friendly activities such as bee sheets and prizes. Kids under five don’t need a ticket.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers blackberry picking, a blackberry cocktail or mocktail, wine flight or mocktail, charcuterie, a blackberry dessert, and a jar of honey to take home.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included, but the location is near public transit and easy to find.
Are gluten-free options available?
Yes, gluten-free options are available for the charcuterie.
What makes this experience special?
The combination of farm activities, local food and drink, and the personal touch of a small, private tour makes it stand out.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just your curiosity and perhaps some sun protection—most activities are outdoors, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
What is the quality of the wine?
The wines are described as “awesome,” particularly the sparkling varieties, which pair well with the local charcuterie.
Will I learn about honey or bees?
Yes, the included bee tour offers insights into honey production and the importance of bees in agriculture.
Final Thoughts
The Okanagan Blackberry Fest with Wine Flights & Charcuterie strikes a winning balance between farm fun and culinary delight. It offers a genuine peek into local farming, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on activities and tasting regional specialties. The relaxed pace, scenic setting, and warm, knowledgeable hosts make it an experience we’d happily recommend to anyone wanting to see a different side of Kelowna—one that’s sweet, savory, and a little bit berry-good.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a loved one, or with family, this tour is a relaxed, immersive way to connect with local flavors and enjoy a slice of Okanagan life. It’s an authentic, affordable experience that stays true to the region’s farm-to-table spirit—an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable, tasty outing.
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