B.C.’s Food and Drink Festivals: Savour the Local Flavours

As a hub for international cuisines, B.C. has an abundance of dining options. You’ll almost never catch yourself being bored or sick of the eats and drinks this province has to offer.

If you have never explored the B.C. food scene, now’s the time to start! Here is a round up of upcoming food events and festivals for those of you who would like to start dabbling in the province’s culinary landscape, or for those who are already foodies, but would welcome more recommendations.

1. Paella & Pintxos at Honey Salt

Discover the flavours of Spain with Paella & Pintxos at Honey Salt! This newly launched menu will take you across the word to the nation of paella and tapas. Some features include paella, tapas, mussels, jamón & eggs, patatas bravas and a tableside sangria cart. This is a great opportunity to enjoy international flavours in the comfort of the beautiful B.C. Note that this menu is only available Monday to Friday, from 5 p.m. onwards.
39 Smithe Street, Vancouver; Menu priced at $75; Details online.

2. White Rock Craft Beer Festival – Saturday, September 21

Head over to the White Rock waterfront for this annual craft beer festival. The festival features over a dozen breweries from the Lower Mainland, local food vendors like Tacofino and Bahn Mi Tres Bon, live entertainment and a photo booth. Your ticket includes three five-ounce drink tokens and a souvenir glass to take home. If you don’t want a drink, stop by for the photo booth and party games free-of-charge! This event runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
14970 Marine Drive, White Rock; Tickets for $40; Details online.

3. Nikkei Matsuri – Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1

Enjoy a day of exploration and fun at this festival organized by the Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre. Visitors will get the opportunity to experience Japanese culture, food and traditions. There will be a variety of activities available, including the Ottakara Market, a Hello Kitty crafts room, a traditional tea room and a Japanese artistry demonstration. You can also expect over a dozen Japanese food vendors, including popular stalls like Takenaka and Tokyo Katsu-sand, as well as lesser-known names like Tea Room Yutaka, Rocket 7 Coffee and Kanadell Japanese Bakery.
6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby; Tickets from $8; Details online.

4. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden Tea Festival: Tea for All – Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22

Experience the warmth of tea in a cultural setting at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. This festival has the theme “Tea for All’, as it invites tea enthusiasts and curious guests alike to engage with the rich traditions behind various forms of tea. Besides tasting a variety of hot teas by local businesses, the festival also offers tea-based snacks and light food, created using Chinese tea and Japanese matcha. Have a sip and a bite, then enjoy activities like hands-on workshops, interactive tea ceremonies, a Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) try-on booth and a tea-themed photo booth!
578 Carrall Street, Vancouver; Tickets from $10; Details online.

5. Moroccan Month at Skye Avenue Kitchen and Lounge – Until Saturday, August 31

Moroccan Month has launched in full force at Skye Avenue Kitchen and Lounge. Locals have the opportunity to delve into traditional Moroccan flavours crafted by Fez native Chef Zouhair. Some dishes you can expect include bisteeya, salatat al jazar, tagine, couscous and jawhara. This is a unique opportunity to taste traditional Moroccan flavours, as well as dabble in Moroccan-inspired cocktails! Run, don’t walk – this menu is only available until August 31.
190-13450 102 Avenue, Surrey; Prices vary; Details online. 

6. CROPPED Wine Festivals – Friday, October 25

Raise your glasses for a toast! CROPPED is back for a day of sips in downtown Kelowna. Sample a selection of B.C. wines and beverages at this one-day festival. The event will also offer bites by chef Kacia and local artisan producers. Ticket prices include a welcome cocktail, two drink tickets and live entertainment.
1383 Ellis Street, Kelowna; Tickets from $55; Details online.

7. Okanagan Feast of Fields – Sunday, September 15

Explore the relationship between farm and table at this wandering harvest festival. This immersive experience allows guests to physically dine in the field where their food is sourced. This concept is meant to highlight the connections between farmers and chefs, and field and table. At the festival, you’ll have a wine glass and napkin in-hand as you stroll across the field, tasting gourmet foods and drinks from tent-to-tent. Ticket prices cover all food and beverages! There is also a fundraising event available, for which organizers offer souvenir cedar plates, raffle tickets for a chance to win a vacation and a silent auction.
1895 Bartley Road, West Kelowna; Tickets from $22; Details online.