This one’s for the oenophiles.
The Off the Vine Winefest returns for its second annual event with a twist as an indoor-outdoor event at the Okotoks Art Gallery on Aug. 17.
“It’s indoors and outdoors with the main part of it outdoors. The Art Gallery is more there so people can enjoy their wine,” said Zach Adams, community events specialist for the Town of Okotoks. “It was more for the environment – the Art Gallery fits the theme of the wine and you can go through the gallery and see the art.
“It’s just a little more scenic than being on a baseball diamond.”
The inaugural Off the Vine event entertained foodies and spirit lovers alike at the Ethel Tucker Park though attendance was somewhat dampened by smoky skies due to the myriad wildfires in western Canada last summer.
“We’re curious to see,” said Adams on the event’s popularity. “We’re on pace last year with ticket sales. Last year with the smoke it kind of effected the event and the turnout and this year we’re curious to see what we can get to and if we can hit our capacity.”
This year’s event will feature 10 different wine sampling booths offering up flavourful concoctions from Co-op Wine Spirits Beer, Renaissance Wines, Spirit Hills as well as Eau Claire Distillery out of Turner Valley.
To pair with the drinks there are four food providers, featuring some of the best cuisine in Okotoks including Heartland Café, Bistro 1882, Pizzaberg with dessert provided by 94 Take the Cake.
The Town of Okotoks will also provide mini cheese tray samplers as an added bonus.
Amidst a sea of family friendly events in the summer in the Foothills, Off the Vine is catering to the adults to have a night for themselves.
“This is an 18-plus event as it is licensed,” Adams said. “This is definitely for the parents to go have some fun and get a babysitter for the kids.”
Not just a feast for the taste buds, live music will be on the menu as well.
Performing will be vocalist and guitarist John Rutherford while Kelly Alliston and Hollywood Bob will be providing the rhythm section on bass and drums, respectively.
The festivities run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Okotoks Art Gallery.
Tickets are available at the door for $60 per person.
For more information go to Okotoks.ca
