The Goods from Discover Naramata

Naramata, BC | Summer is in full swing on the Naramata Bench, and there’s no better time to plan your next escape. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing day trip, a weekend in wine country, an adventure-packed getaway exploring the outdoors, or simply a few days to truly unwind, throughout the rest of summer you’ll find unforgettable experiences that showcase what makes this special place so unique.

From community celebrations to farmers’ markets, delicious food, and award-winning wines, the Naramata Bench comes alive in late summer. It’s the perfect time to slow down, reconnect, and soak up every golden day of the season.

Signature Events You Won’t Want to Miss

One of the season’s staples is the Naramata Community Farmers’ Market. Running every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Manitou Beach Park, the market brings together more than 30 vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisan products and handmade items, all set against the backdrop of Okanagan Lake.

Kick off August with Naramata Nights – August Edition on Friday, August 7, from 4 p.m., to 8 p.m., when select wineries across the Bench stay open into Golden Hour for an evening of unforgettable experiences. Sip and stroll your way through live music, food trucks, featured wine tastings, tarot readings, bottle shopping, and more as you watch the sun set over Okanagan Lake. It’s the perfect way to experience the magic of the Bench after hours.

On Monday, August 17, from 4 p.m., to 7 p.m., the heart of Naramata comes alive for the Village Summer Social. Gather with friends, neighbours, and visitors for an evening celebrating the best of the community with delicious local food and beverages, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and plenty of opportunities to connect while enjoying one of summer’s most anticipated evenings.

Then, as summer begins to transition into harvest, another beloved tradition returns. On Sunday, September 13, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Naramata Bench Wineries Association welcomes back Tailgate, a legendary harvest celebration that was once the hottest ticket in town for locals and visitors alike.

Revived and bigger and better than ever, Tailgate invites guests to beautiful Manitou Beach Park to gather with Naramata’s wineries and local beverage producers for an unforgettable afternoon of small-town hospitality, great company, incredible wines, and the excitement of harvest season. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or making your annual return to the Bench, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Tickets are available at naramatabench.com/product/tailgate-early.

A Taste of the Bench

Summer on the Naramata Bench is just as much about what’s on the table as what’s in your glass, with returning favourites and new additions offering plenty of delicious reasons to linger a little longer.

At the historic Naramata Inn, Bistro Lapin Perdu has returned under local restaurateurs Christopher Royal and Michael Ziff, serving French-inspired dishes with Québécois influences and a strong focus on Okanagan wines.

Terroir Kitchen at Serendipity Winery continues its vineyard-side dining experience under Executive Chef Tristan Bunkowski, highlighting seasonal Okanagan ingredients and vegetable-forward dishes shaped by global experience.

At JoieFarm Winery, The Hot Dog Lounge offers a more casual option, with gourmet hot dogs served alongside lake views from the winery lawn.
The Bistro at Hillside Winery, under Executive Chef Brandon Frederick, focuses on local ingredients, share plates and pairings designed to complement Hillside’s Naramata-grown wines.

New to the village is Frankie’s Beach Provisions, serving smoothies, açai bowls, milkshakes and grab-and-go snacks, along with eco-conscious beach essentials for lake days.

Just Baked 9 Mile Naramata has also expanded its offerings beyond daytime bakery favourites with seasonal programming, including Friday afternoons from 2–4 p.m., when guests can enjoy rosé and fries in a relaxed village setting.

More Ways to Experience Naramata

While exploring the village, take time to browse a few of Naramata’s local shops. Pop into Sun n’ Sup, Shades of Linen and 4th Meridian for a mix of laid-back coastal style, home goods and locally inspired finds. For something simple and nostalgic, stop by the Naramata General Store for an ice cream before heading back to the lake or vineyards.

Outdoor recreation continues to draw visitors throughout the season as well, from cycling the Kettle Valley Rail Trail to paddleboarding, boating and beach days along Okanagan Lake.

For more details and to plan your visit, head to discovernaramata.com.