Elves, Santa and holiday fun galore upcoming in Penticton

Photo: Mike Biden

"Four seasons of fun" is an ongoing collaboration between Castanet and Visit Penticton showcasing what Penticton has to offer all year round. Watch for it every Monday morning.

There’s no shortage of holiday-themed fun coming to local breweries, bars, and wineries as the Christmas season comes into full swing, and several events are family-friendly.

Santa will be making a stop at the Barley Mill Brew Pub & Sports Bistro tomorrow, Tuesday Dec. 6, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. for Instagram-worthy photos – bring your own camera – by donation to the local hospital.

“We’ve spent a week decorating,” says Kori Iceton of the Barley Mill. “Lights and garland are everywhere, and it’s nice for us to take people upstairs (for Santa) as they may not know that space exists.

Guest will be able to explore the décor while comfortably waiting for their photo opp. Grab a ticket when you arrive, and when your number is called, St. Nicholas will be waiting for you.

“Enjoy a beverage or a hot chocolate while you’re waiting,” says Kori, who suggest that younger kids may want to come earlier before it gets too busy.

If you miss this stop by Santa, catch up with him at Cannery Brewing on Dec. 11 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Bring the whole family and your camera. This Kris Kringle photo opp is by donation to the South Okanagan Children’s Charity.

If the grown-ups in the family need to take a break and have a night out, Britbar in downtown Penticton welcomes The Real HouseElves of the North Pole with Rebellious Unicorns, a Christmas drag show with Ella Lamoureaux, Felicia Bonée and Toddy scheduled for Dec. 8.

“The show is always a surprise, even to me,” says owner Martyn Lewis, “sometimes I become a participant.” After the show, Martyn himself will take the entertainment reigns as the night’s DJ.

Tickets are available in advance or at the door, and be sure to try a holiday cocktail.

Red Rooster Winery on the Naramata Bench is also getting into the spirit with a wine cocktail experience featuring a flight of five seasonal sips such as a Merlot hot chocolate and a Pinot Gris cranberry spritzer.

Or reserve a cookies and wine experience with four wines paired with holiday cookies, prepared by a local baker.

Try a complimentary cookie or two at Red Rooster’s Holi-Yay open house on Dec. 10 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Stock up the cellar or grab some stocking stuffers as wine and merchandise will be on sale. Poplar Grove Cheese will be there with cheeses and charcuterie platter ideas.

And for a laugh after a day of exploring and shopping, a Christmas Comedy Night with Velina Taskov and friends comes to Highway 97 Brewing Company on Dec. 10 with a great lineup of talented comics.

Looking for more events to fill the calendar this season? Head to the Visit Penticton event calendar to explore what’s happening, plan an activity or two for the family, or share with the holiday houseguests soon to head your way.

Learn more at www.visitpenticton.com and on social @visitpenticton.