Here in Whistler, we like our food and wine – so much so, in fact, that we host an annual festival celebrating all things wining and dining.

From November 6 to 16, venues across town will come alive with foodies and winos learning, sipping, tasting, and celebrating. Cornucopia is a fabulous way to fill that otherwise grey and drab time that marks the end of shoulder season.

Careful planning and pacing is a must – after all, you have 11 days to indulge in some of the best food and wine in the world. If you’re looking for a well-rounded Cornucopia experience that has a little bit of everything, you’re in the right place. Here’s a little scoop on what to expect at Cornucopia.

Drink Events

Cornucopia is all about celebrating wines from around the world. There are non-wine events, too – check out ‘An Evening of Scotch and Cigars’ at the FireRock Lounge – but wine is definitely the starring beverage of Cornucopia.

If you can only go to one event, make it the Top 25 Celebratory Reception. A panel of very fortunate judges will be tasked with the challenge of selecting the top 25 wines of the festival, and you’ll get to be there to see who made the cut. Not only will this evening provide you with plenty of inspiration for your next liquor store shopping list, but you’ll also get to sample from the winners. Whites, reds, bubbles—this event has it all.

Food Events

There are so many fantastic food events throughout Cornucopia that one glance at the schedule is enough to send your head spinning! Intimate winery dinners; cooking classes; chef table luncheons – we advise you to try as many as you possibly can.

The world-renown Fairmont Chateau Whistler is hosting a series of classes, demos, and lunch and learns, offering the opportunity to learn a new skill or two while sampling some goodies. Given that the holiday season is just around the corner, we’ve got our eyes on “The Art of Holiday Cooking”, an interactive cooking demonstration and festive feast that involves some tasty takeaways – a full feast and a recipe book to try at home.

Seminars

When it comes to food and drink, the more you know, the better you can appreciate. Cornucopia’s seminars offer the perfect opportunity to learn more about your favourite wines, beers, and spirits. From region-specific courses (“Mediterranean Marvels”, “Exotic Wine Safari”) to drink-specific workshops (“Single Malt Seduction”, Gin Unplugged”), you’ll wish you could get your PhD in Cornucopia Studies.

We’re excited to check out the “Up North & Down Under” event, a debate of sorts between Australia-born Rhys Pender (who know makes wine in BC) and Vancouver-based wine writer Kurtis Kolt. Attendees will get to sample wines from Australia and BC as each speaker makes his case.

Parties

Cornucopia presents a few of the rare opportunities for Whistlerites to swap out ski boots for high heels. Don’t risk missing out on lavish parties like House Party, CRUSH, and POURED – buy your tickets early, as they’re popular events.

Nourish

Prevent burning out on food and wine by balancing things out with the “Nourish” series. Start your day off on the right food at a Nourish yoga or meditation event, lead by some of Whistler’s best instructors.

You can check out the full Cornucopia schedule here. Don’t forget to book your hotel reservations – preferably something close to Whistler Village. We can help you find and book the perfect hotel room!