Okanagan Blackberry Fest; Wine Flights & Charcuterie Kelowna

If you’re heading to Kelowna and want something a little different from the usual wine tours or lakeside strolls, the Okanagan Blackberry Fest offered by Meadow Vista Honey Wines might just pique your interest. This isn’t just another tasting event; it’s a charming, farm-based celebration of blackberry harvest that combines delicious local food, refreshing drinks, and a taste of farm life. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it sounds like a genuine treat for anyone curious about the fruit, the wine, or simply looking for a laid-back, family-friendly activity.

Two things we love about this experience are the focus on local, handmade products—like charcuterie, honey, and desserts—and the interactive element of U-picking fresh blackberries. It’s not just a sit-and-sip affair; you get to take part in harvesting your own berries, which adds an authentic touch. The other highlight is the variety of drinks, especially the specialty blackberry cocktails and honey wine, which promise a refreshing twist on traditional tasting experiences.

A potential consideration is that this tour lasts only about 1.5 hours, so if you’re after a more in-depth farm tour or multiple wine tastings, it might feel a bit brief. Still, it’s a great, relaxed way to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re traveling with family or looking for a light, engaging activity. This experience is best suited for those wanting a taste of farm life with excellent local food and drink, and it’s particularly family-friendly with options for children to enjoy activities and non-alcoholic drinks.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: The experience lasts around 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a quick yet memorable outing.
• Interactive fun: U-pick blackberries and farm activities add an engaging element.
• Delicious offerings: From blackberry cocktails to charcuterie, the food and drinks highlight local flavors.
• Family-friendly: Kids can participate in activities and enjoy non-alcoholic mocktails.
• Great value: For $42, you get multiple tastings, a jar of honey, fresh blackberries, and farm fun.
• High ratings: With a 4.8 out of 5 from four reviews, it’s clearly enjoyed by visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Blackberry Harvest Experience

Setting the Scene

Imagine arriving at a welcoming farm in Kelowna, surrounded by the colors and scents of late summer. The event kicks off with a curated blackberry cocktail or mocktail—a welcoming sip that sets the tone for the afternoon. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that immediately immerses you in the experience. If you prefer alcohol-free options, no worries—they’re readily available.

U-Pick Blackberries

One of the most appealing aspects is the chance to pick your own blackberries. The farm’s blackberries are ripe and juicy, and the process of selecting your pint is relaxed and enjoyable. This isn’t a hurried, commercial operation; it’s about taking your time, enjoying the outdoors, and getting your hands a little sticky with fresh fruit. According to reviews, this part is particularly fun—”Picking the berries was wonderful and relaxing,” as one visitor shared.

Tasting Local Wines and Charcuterie

Next, you’ll settle onto the outdoor Bistro Patio, which sounds like a lovely spot to enjoy the views and the atmosphere. Here, a wine flight or mocktail awaits, paired with a local charcuterie platter. The charcuterie is described as featuring local meats, cheeses, handmade pickles, jams, and organic crostini, emphasizing the farm-to-table approach. The wine options include sparkling and possibly other varieties, with reviewers praising the delicious wine flight and bubbly.

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Special Blackberry Dessert and Honey

To satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s a mini blackberry dessert—a tiny but tasty bite that complements the fruity theme. Plus, you’ll receive a jar of Blackberry Blossom honey to take home, a delightful keepsake that captures the essence of local beekeeping.

Additional Farm Activities

Beyond eating and drinking, there’s a self-guided or audio bee tour that offers insight into the importance of bees and honey production. You can also play lawn games or simply enjoy farm fun—perfect for those traveling with children who might love the playful environment.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews are consistently positive, with most giving high praise. Jackie from Canada mentions, “We loved it! The blackberry sangria was awesome, and picking blackberries to take home was fun.” She also appreciated the friendly staff and the quality of the wine. Another reviewer said, “Picking the berries was wonderful and relaxing,” emphasizing the laid-back vibe. Carrie highlights the tasty honey wines, blackberries, and charcuterie, calling the experience “lovely.” The overall impression is that this is a well-organized event with friendly hosts and high-quality local products.

Price and Value

At $42 per person, the experience offers good value considering it includes a variety of tastings, the opportunity to pick berries, a jar of honey, and farm activities. Reviewers seem to agree that you get a lot for your money—this isn’t just a tasting; it’s an immersive, hands-on experience that combines farm life with gourmet delights.

Who is This Experience Best For?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, farm-based outing. It’s especially good if you enjoy local food, wine, and outdoor activities. The fact that it’s family-friendly with non-alcoholic options and activities for kids makes it a flexible choice. If you’re seeking a quick, fun farm visit that offers a taste of Kelowna’s bountiful harvest, this is a charming option.

The Experience Breakdown

• Arrival and Welcome: You start with a blackberry cocktail or mocktail, setting a festive, welcoming tone.
• Berry Picking: You then move to the blackberry fields for some hands-on harvesting, which is both relaxing and satisfying.
• Tasting & Grazing: Next, you’ll enjoy a thoughtfully curated charcuterie platter paired with a wine flight or mocktail.
• Sweet Finish: A mini blackberry dessert follows, along with a jar of local honey.
• Farm Fun & Learning: Additional activities like the bee tour, lawn games, and farm exploration round out the experience.

Duration & Group Size

The entire session lasts about 1.5 hours, making it manageable even if your schedule is tight. It’s hosted in a small, friendly group environment, and the outdoor setting allows for social distancing if needed.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English. You can reserve your spot with flexibility—cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later, which is handy for planning uncertain schedules.

Final Thoughts

The Okanagan Blackberry Fest at Meadow Vista Honey Wines offers more than just tasting; it’s an engaging farm experience rooted in local flavors and community spirit. It’s a lovely way to celebrate the harvest, connect with nature, and indulge in some excellent food and drinks. Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or simply curious about farm life, this tour packs a lot of charm into a short time.

For families and those craving a relaxed outdoor activity with a genuine local touch, it’s a solid choice. The combination of picking ripe blackberries, sampling local honey and wines, and enjoying farm games makes it memorable without feeling overwhelming. Just be prepared for the brief duration and the outdoor setting, which is part of the charm but worth noting depending on your weather.

All in all, if you’re seeking a friendly, tasty, and authentic farm experience in Kelowna, this is worth considering.

FAQ About the Blackberry Fest Tour

Is there an option for non-drinkers or children?
Yes, non-alcoholic mocktails are available, and children are welcome to participate in farm activities and enjoy the berry picking and lawn games.

How long does the experience last?
The tour runs approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short outing for a relaxed afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
For $42, you get a welcoming blackberry cocktail or mocktail, a pint of fresh blackberries to take home, a choice of wine flight or mocktail, local charcuterie, a mini blackberry dessert, and a jar of Blackberry Blossom honey. Plus, farm activities and the bee tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your travel plans shift.

Is it suitable for families?
Absolutely. Kids can enjoy the activities, and there’s no requirement for children to purchase tickets under age 5.

What kind of farm activities are there?
Besides berry picking, you can take the self-guided or audio bee tour, play lawn games, or simply enjoy farm fun on the outdoor patio.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons, but you can book now and pay later to keep plans flexible.

Is there any extra cost I should be aware of?
No, all the listed activities and tastings are included in the ticket price. Food and additional drinks are available for purchase if desired.

If you’re after a charming, delicious, and interactive farm experience in Kelowna that blends local flavors with outdoor fun, the Blackberry Fest is a delightful choice. It offers a taste of farm life, fresh berries, and tasty drinks—all wrapped in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: