A heaping serving of art, wine, food and music

Wines and tapas galore, Farmers’ Market, one-of-a-kind arts and crafts, and a mid-mountain barbecue topped off with orchestra music are what’s in store for this year’s Sun Peaks Wine and Culture Festival. The festival will run from July 16 to 18 at Sun Peaks Resort.

One of the most popular events at the festival, the Symphony of Flavours will be back again this year. Guests can sample a variety of wines and tapas while enjoying music from the Chamber Musicians of Kamloops. Symphony of Flavours will be held July 16 at the Delta Health Club from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

After strolling through the village, stop by the Village Square for a mini concert performance as members of the Chamber Musicians of Kamloops play a choice ensemble of classical music all afternoon. Complimentary performances run on Saturday and Sunday afternoon.

Delve into the wonderful world of wines with wine expert Gerrit Van Staalduinen. In this interactive wine seminar, Van Staalduinen will introduce you to a select variety of wines. During the seminar, you’ll get a chance to evaluate the aroma and taste the different wines. The wine seminar runs from noon to 1:30 p.m. Participants must be at least 19 years old.

Beautiful works of art are also on the menu this weekend at the Art Walk from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Here’s a chance to mingle with some local artists and learn about their work displayed at each participating restaurant. This year, prepare to enjoy the food prepared at Bottom’s Bar and Grill, Globe, Bella Italia Ristorante, Masa’s Bar and Grill, and Mantles Restaurant. Paintings, whimsical sculptures, and painted glass were some of the artworks featured in the past. You’ll also enjoy a mouth-watering food and wine pairing at each stop.

How about a change of scenery? Head up the chairlift to Sunburst Restaurant for a mid-mountain salmon barbecue. Not only will you enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery, you’ll also be treated to a romantic serenade as a string quartet plays during your meal. The Saturday barbecue is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. while the Sunday one runs from noon to 2 p.m.

Last but certainly not least, visit the Farmers’ Market for fresh local produce while listening to more live music. A special Wine and Culture zone will be set up featuring arts and crafts from local talented artists.

New this year, customers can purchase a special VIP card and a Loyalty Card for Farmer’s Market. The VIP card costs $10 and avails users of weekly discounts from merchants. Frequent shoppers at the Farmers’ Market can pick up a free Loyalty Card. You get a stamp for each purchase at participating merchants. After your 10th stamp, you will be entered into a draw for a basket of goodies courtesy of the Farmers’ Market vendors. The cards are available from Janice at Tourism Sun Peaks: 250-578-5542.