Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences in Oliver
Oliver, located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, is deeply connected to the Syilx (Okanagan) Nation, whose people have lived in this region for thousands of years. Known for its rolling vineyards, desert landscapes, and rich Indigenous heritage, Oliver offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Syilx culture through storytelling, art, and land-based traditions.
Visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre
One of the top Indigenous cultural attractions in the region, the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in nearby Osoyoos provides an immersive experience into Syilx traditions, language, and history. The center features interactive exhibits, Indigenous artwork, and guided outdoor trails that highlight the ecological and spiritual significance of the region’s unique desert ecosystem.
Explore Indigenous Wineries
Oliver is home to several Indigenous-owned wineries that blend Syilx cultural traditions with modern winemaking. Nk’Mip Cellars, North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery, offers guided tastings where visitors can learn about the Syilx approach to land stewardship and the deep-rooted relationship between the people and the land.
Connect with the Land Through Indigenous-Led Tours
Visitors can explore the region’s Indigenous heritage through guided hiking and eco-tours that provide insight into traditional Syilx plant knowledge, sustainable hunting and fishing practices, and the deep spiritual connection between the Syilx people and the natural world.
Attend Cultural Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Indigenous cultural events in the Oliver area celebrate Syilx traditions through traditional drumming, dance, storytelling, and artisan markets. These gatherings offer an opportunity to engage with local Indigenous artists and knowledge keepers who share their cultural heritage through their crafts, music, and oral histories.
Whether you’re sampling Indigenous-made wine, exploring sacred landscapes, or learning about Syilx history through immersive storytelling, Oliver invites you to connect with the rich cultural traditions and enduring legacy of the Syilx (Okanagan) people.
Every community has its own unique cultural footprint.
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