Keep January fun in Penticton with plenty of events in the coming weeks

Photo: Okanagan Wine Festivals

"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.

Take out your smart phone, grab the calendar off of the fridge, or crack the spine of your 2023 day planner. It’s time to book some events to get you through the next few weeks of winter.

For a night out, start with an upcoming performance at the South Okanagan Events Centre While the Penticton Vees continue their great season, the SOEC welcomes a special hockey celebration on Jan. 20, with the B.C. Hockey League’s Top Prospects Game.

Part of the BCHL’s 60th Anniversary Weekend , the Prospects game will have players from around North America on the ice. Earlier on game day there will be a community skate at Penticton’s outdoor rink; there is a full day of activities on Saturday, Jan. 21, and a final community skate on Sunday.

Sports fans can stay warm inside to watch the Harlem Globetrotters show off their skills on Jan. 25, and speaking of anniversaries, rockers Anthrax bring their 40th anniversary tour to the SOEC on Jan. 21 with guests Black Label Society.

There may be a battle on the ice brewing soon, but a throwdown with a different type of ice will take place at Britbar tomorrow, Jan. 17, at the winter edition of the Battle of the Bartenders. Four local mixologists will compete for both accolades from the judges and a people’s choice award.

For wine lovers, book your tickets to Sensation – An Eve for the Senses, taking place Jan. 27 at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, part of the Okanagan Winter Wine Festival. Enjoy this sensory inspired grand tasting featuring culinary pairings with both contrasting and complementing wines, while you are treated to entertainment that teases the sense of touch, smell, sight and hearing.

Meanwhile, Scotch enthusiasts are counting down to Robbie Burns Night, celebrating the national bard – poet, storyteller, and composer – of Scotland.

On Jan. 21, the Penticton Scottish Festival invites you to the Penticton Lakeside Resort for an evening of poetry, music, dancing, and cheer. From traditional ballads and romantic songs to humorous satires and thought-provoking poems, Robert Burns composed some of the world's most instantly recognizable lines of poetry and song lyrics.

Starting off with entertainment featuring the Vale United Pipe Band and several dance troupes, a traditional roast beef dinner will follow. It will of course include Haggis, the national dish of Scotland. There will be a vegetarian option as well. Tickets can be purchased online.

Combine a culinary and cardio experience with Hoodoo Adventures at their signature Snowshoe and Three-course dinner, available on Jan. 28 and Feb. 25..

This tour starts at sunset and finishes around a warm bonfire where you’ll have dinner paired with fine wines and spirits. This adventure starts at Apex Mountain Resort and a shuttle is available to book. Equipment is provided and you’ll be with an experienced guide before you relax fireside, under the starry Okanagan sky.

For more things to do this month, check out the Visit Penticton events calendar