Your Guide to Life in the Okanagan Valley
Your weekly guide to the best events in the Okanagan — Hello Spring Artisans Market, We Create ArtWalk, Ignite the Arts Festival, siwɬkʷ Water Forum, and more happening March 21–27, 2026.
🏡 RETIREMENT GUIDE · SOUTH OKANAGAN Best South Okanagan Towns for Retirees & Downsizers Penticton, Summerland, Oliver, or Osoyoos — here’s how each one actually feels to live in, and how to figure out which one fits you best. March 23, 2026·7 min read·Rico Manazza In This Post 1. Penticton 2. Summerland 3. Oliver 4. … Read more
Thinking about living in the South Okanagan? Here’s what daily life, community, costs, and home buying look like from Penticton to Osoyoos.
Key Takeaways South Okanagan farmers markets typically open in late April or May — Penticton’s is one of BC’s most celebrated. Each town’s market has its own character: Penticton is the biggest, Summerland is charming and orchard-focused, Oliver leans into wine country, and Osoyoos draws on desert-region produce. Spring market season is also the best … Read more
Key Takeaways St. Patrick’s Day falls right as the South Okanagan starts warming up – the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy the season. Penticton’s local pub scene, craft breweries, and restaurants all get into the spirit with specials and live music. The South Okanagan’s Irish-inspired craft brews and green beer make for a … Read more
Key Takeaways Spring arrives earlier in the South Okanagan than almost anywhere else in Canada — think beaches in April and patios by May. Farmers markets, wineries, hiking trails, and waterfront dining all come alive between March and June. Spring is historically one of the best windows to buy real estate in the Okanagan — … Read more
Key Takeaways Keremeos and Cawston offer some of the most affordable home prices in the entire Okanagan — often 30–40% below Penticton for comparable properties. The Similkameen Valley delivers a jaw-dropping natural setting: canyon walls, the Similkameen River, and more sunshine hours than almost anywhere in BC. Cawston is home to one of BC’s most … Read more
Looking to buy your first home in Penticton? Here are 5 neighbourhoods that offer the best value, lifestyle, and entry points for first-time buyers in 2026.
My name is Rico, and I’m a REALTOR® with eXp Realty. I’m also a financial advisor, helping people create the life of their dreams. Why Choose the Okanagan? Let me share a bit about myself. I moved to the Okanagan in 2010, right after the Vancouver Winter Olympics. At the time, I was a contractor … Read more