Devour! The Food Film Festival celebrates the vibrant connection between food, film and community in one of Canada’s most picturesque wine regions. Set against the stunning backdrop of Osoyoos Lake and the South Okanagan’s rolling vineyards, this unique festival invites locals and visitors alike to experience storytelling through food-themed films paired with exceptional culinary experiences.
Watermark Beach Resort proudly serves as a founding partner of Devour! Osoyoos, bringing its passion for world-class hospitality and local culture to the festival. Since its inception, Devour! has grown from a niche event into a celebrated annual gathering that shines a spotlight on the region’s talented chefs, innovative winemakers and inspiring filmmakers.
Join us as we explore the stories behind the festival, the people who bring it to life and how you can experience Devour! in the heart of Osoyoos.
Behind the Festival: How Devour! Came to Osoyoos
Devour! The Food Film Festival began as a collaboration between visionary filmmakers and food enthusiasts looking to connect the artistry of film with the rich culinary heritage of the South Okanagan. Osoyoos was a natural fit, with its warm climate, scenic vineyards and a growing reputation as a destination for food and wine lovers.
Watermark Beach Resort has played a key role since the festival’s early days by hosting events and supporting local partners such as Destination Osoyoos, Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country and the Similkameen Independent Winegrowers. Together, they created a platform to showcase the talents of chefs, winemakers and filmmakers from across the region and beyond.
The festival’s founders envisioned an event that would engage the community, celebrate local culture and attract visitors who appreciate the connection between great food and compelling storytelling.
Taste & Tour: Devour! Wine Seminars & Similkameen Tours
Devour! offers a range of wine seminars designed to deepen appreciation for the South Okanagan and Similkameen’s unique terroir. Led by expert sommeliers and passionate winemakers, these sessions provide guests with insight into local grape varieties, sustainable practices and food pairing techniques.
The Similkameen Wine Tour is a highlight for many attendees. Travelling through scenic vineyards, guests visit boutique wineries such as Clos du Soleil and Orofino, tasting limited-edition releases and learning about the region’s evolving wine culture. These tours combine education with immersive tasting experiences, often including behind-the-scenes access to winemaking facilities.
No matter your wine experience, Devour! seminars and tours connect you directly with the producers who define the region’s character.
Meet the Winegrowers of the Similkameen
The Similkameen Valley is home to some of the region’s most passionate and innovative winegrowers. Wineries like Clos du Soleil, Orofino and Eau Vivre have earned a reputation for crafting wines that reflect the valley’s unique climate and soil.
These growers focus on sustainable practices and careful handcrafting to bring out the best in their vineyards. Their work connects deeply with the land, producing wines that tell the story of the Similkameen’s rugged beauty.
At Devour!, winemakers step forward to share their knowledge and pours, inviting visitors to taste the results of their dedication.
Culinary Stars: Chef Jon Crofts and Festival Flavours
Chef Jon Crofts is a celebrated figure in Osoyoos’ culinary scene, best known for his work at Codfathers Seafood Market. His commitment to sustainable seafood and quality ingredients fits perfectly with Devour!’s focus on local stories and authentic flavours.
Jon shares his expertise through cooking demonstrations, special dinners, and engaging talks. His passion for the community and environment shines in every dish, making him a favourite among festival guests.
Through chefs like Jon, Devour! offers more than films and wine. It delivers a full sensory experience that highlights the best of the region’s food culture.
Lights, Camera, Culinary! Devour! Film & Food Pairings
Devour! brings food and film together with the TOTA short film contest, which showcases compelling food-themed shorts from local and international filmmakers. Each year, chefs create dishes inspired by these films, turning stories on screen into flavours on the plate.
Past films like “Claws” and “Shucker’s Song” have inspired festival menus and recipes that guests can enjoy during the event or try at home. This connection between cinema and cuisine adds a creative layer to the festival experience.
The film contest highlights the artistry and passion behind both filmmaking and cooking, making Devour! a unique celebration of storytelling in every form.
What to Expect: Past Festival Highlights & Community Connection
Devour! has grown into a vibrant celebration with a range of events that bring the community together. Long table dinners, guest speaker panels, and local vendor markets create opportunities to connect with chefs, winemakers, and fellow food lovers.
Venues like Watermark Beach Resort and nearby wineries host tastings and dinners that highlight the region’s best ingredients and talents. The festival atmosphere is relaxed yet engaging, welcoming both locals and visitors.
Each year, the festival offers fresh experiences while staying true to its roots of celebrating food, film, and the people who make it all possible.
Planning Your Visit to Devour! Osoyoos
Devour! usually takes place in spring, offering the perfect chance to enjoy Osoyoos’ warm weather, stunning lake views, and vibrant wine country. Staying at Watermark Beach Resort puts you right at the heart of the action, with modern suites, lakeside dining at 15 Park Bistro, and relaxing experiences at Levia Wellness Spa just steps away.
Book your stay at Watermark Beach Resort today to join this unique celebration of food, film, and community.
