As the holiday season approaches, Summerland transforms into a twinkling wonderland, and we at Lightning Rock Winery are thrilled to be part of the annual Light Up the Vines event once again! This magical celebration brings together wineries, cideries, breweries, and distilleries across Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive for enchanting evenings filled with festive lights, delightful sips, and holiday cheer.
While our tasting room is usually closed for the season, we’re opening our doors for four special nights:
4 PM to 9 PM
Saturday, November 30th
Friday, December 6th & Saturday, December 7th
What to Expect at Lightning Rock:
✨ Exclusive Light Up Tastings
3-wine flight (choose sparkling, white, rosé, or red) – $10
5 oz glass of any open wine – $10
✨ Twinkling Lights Everywhere
✨ Fire Tables and Outdoor Heaters
✨ Complimentary Hot Apple Cider (non-alcoholic)
✨ Special Holiday Deals
📅 Date: Friday, November 29, 2024
⏰ Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Downtown Summerland
A Tradition 37 Years in the Making
The Festival of Lights began 37 years ago, envisioned by four passionate Summerland businessmen: Jerry Hallquist, Art Sewell, Allan Fabbi, and Bruce Hallquist. Their goal was to showcase the vibrant businesses of downtown Summerland. To bring this vision to life, they initiated a community-wide effort to light up the town:
The inaugural festival was a resounding success, drawing an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 attendees. It was the only event of its kind in the Okanagan at the time and has since become a premier holiday tradition, thriving over the past 37 years and captivating both locals and visitors alike.
Festival Highlights
✨ Light Displays: Marvel at the spectacular lighting that transforms the town into a glittering spectacle.
✨ Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances that add to the festive atmosphere.
✨ Food Vendors: Savor delicious treats from local vendors.
✨ Holiday Shopping: Explore unique gifts from local artisans and businesses.
✨ Beverage Tent: Don’t miss the Light Up Summerland Beverage Tent presented in partnership with Visit Summerland at Henry & Wharton, featuring local wines, ciders, beers, spirits, and of course Lightning Rock Winery!
✨ Fireworks Display: Cap off the evening with a spectacular fireworks show presented by the Summerland Credit Union.
After enjoying the downtown festivities, continue the fun by exploring the Light Up the Vines event along Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive. Join us and other local producers for enchanting evenings filled with festive lights, special tastings, and holiday cheer.
Event Dates
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday, November 30th
Friday, December 6th & Saturday, December 7th
Participating Members Include
Wineries:
Haywire Winery
Summergate Winery
Dirty Laundry Vineyard
Garnet Valley Ranch
Heavens Gate Winery
Lightning Rock Winery
Lunessence Winery
Sage Hills Estate Winery
Solvero Wines
Pamplemousse Jus
Sleeping Giant Fruit Winery
Vows and Vines Vineyard
Cideries:
Millionaires’ Row Cider Co.
Dominion Cider Co.
Nomad Cider
Summerland Heritage Cider
Distilleries:
Alchemist Distiller*
Controlled Entropy Distilling
Breweries:
Detonate Brewing Company
To make the most of your Light Up the Vines experience, here are some tips:
Create Your Own Tour
Map Out Your Stops: With so many fantastic venues participating, plan ahead to visit your top choices. Consider grouping nearby locations to maximize your time.
Reserve Tastings
While many places welcome walk-ins (including us!), reservations can help ensure you have a spot, especially during peak times.
Transportation
Drive Safely: If you plan to drive, designate a sober driver to ensure everyone’s safety.
Shuttle Services
Check out local shuttle services or consider booking the Light Up the Vines Special Offer with the Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa, which includes door-to-door shuttle service to select tasting rooms.
Stay Overnight
Accommodation Offers: Extend your stay and enjoy more of what Summerland has to offer. The Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is offering exclusive rates for the event.
Dress Warmly
The evenings can be chilly. Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Embrace the Festivities with Family & Friends
Many venues are family-friendly (including us!), so feel free to bring the kids along for some holiday fun.