“WINTER IS NOT A SEASON, IT’S A CELEBRATION.” ~ ANAMIKA MISHRA

For those of us who have visited parts of Europe during the festive season, it's pretty clear that European Christmas markets are tough to beat. Holiday vibes, smiling faces, friends and family, crafts, food, wine - it's like an amusement park for the senses with a dash of coziness to boot. 

Now, this may be a biased opinion, but here in Canada, we really know how to celebrate Christmas. It's in our blood. Aside from having the right climate for it, we're a country that loves being social, even when days shorten and things start to cool down. This begs the question, then: why, with our connection to Winter and partial European heritage, do we not host markets to the same degree? 

The answer is: we do! 

As the winter months roll in, the Naramata Bench becomes a playground for snowshoeing, hiking, and exploring. Trails like the Kettle Valley Rail Trail offer snow-dusted views over Okanagan Lake, and a brisk hike here is sure to refresh the spirit. Afterward, cozy up by a fire with a glass of local wine or hot cocoa.

We’ve talked about the buzz of Summer. Also, the short window when Summer ends. But there's something else we'd like to tell you about. Another little secret we'd like to let you in on. Are you ready? 

Naramata is more than a one-season destination. 

That's right! Naramata has something for everyone all year long and Autumn, an unsung season itself, is now upon us. Shortening days and cooler evenings mean an annual sense of coziness has begun. Sunny days remain abundant only minus the summer heat. Colours are changing, bringing a new vibrancy to the local landscape. Restaurants, accommodations, activities and tasting rooms remain open, and without the line-ups of the high season, there are plenty of opportunities to get to know the locals a bit more.

"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."

~ L. M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

What brings you joy?

Friendly faces, perhaps? How about a sense of community? Or maybe events? Landscapes? Ease of getting around? Delicious food? I know... a mouthful of approachable wine in the sun with your favourite furry friend, taking in stunning views while being tempted by the aromas of mouthwatering food being cooked not far from where you parked your bike. Sound too good to be true? Well, you're in luck because it is true, and it's oh-so-good!

JoieFarm Winery

Located here inNaramata, this is where joy is more than a name; it's an ethos. BJ Tumanut, who has been withJoie for seven years, is the definition of joy in human form.  

"Okay, this might sound cheesy. It's true, though, so I don't mind. Our goal here at Joie is to bring joy to every moment and everything we do. Whether winemaking or interacting with the public, we constantly strive to connect with our community. Of course, we're proud of thequality of our wine, but it's really the quality of every interaction we have with people that best represents our culture. To me, joy is more than positivity. It's a key ingredient in who we are and has been part of our vision from the beginning."