For the past few years, we’ve had the privilege of photographing and telling stories throughout Summerland and along Bottleneck Drive.

We’ve spent days in its vineyards and orchards. We’ve sat at picnic tables under old trees, wandered dusty farm roads, photographed winemakers, growers, cider makers, and raised more than a few glasses with the people who make this place what it is.

And somewhere along the way, we fell pretty hard for Summerland.

In the wake of the devastating wildfire, we wanted to share some of the photographs and videos we’ve captured here over the years. A small record of this extraordinary community, its land, its businesses and the people behind them.

Because Summerland really is magic.

And right now, this community needs us.

1. Buy something made in Summerland. Look for local wine, cider, beer, spirits, food, art and other Summerland products at retailers, restaurants and online.
2. Purchase a gift certificate. Buy one from a favourite Summerland restaurant, winery, cidery, shop, accommodation provider or experience. Use it later or give it to someone you love.
3. Ask for Summerland when dining out. Choose wine, cider, beer or spirits made in Summerland whenever you see them on a menu. You can also ask your server what’s available. (See where it is being poured here: https://summerlandsips.com/) 
4. Help local businesses reach more people. Follow Summerland businesses and producers on social media. Share their posts, leave a kind comment and tell others why their work matters to you.
5. Plan a future visit. When it’s safe to return, book a fall getaway or future stay. Eat locally, visit producers, explore the community and support Summerland’s accommodations, attractions and experiences.
6. Tell someone why you love Summerland. Recommend a favourite winery, restaurant, shop, artist, producer or experience to your friends and family. Personal recommendations make a real difference.

And for those looking for other ways to help families and businesses affected by the wildfire, HelpSummerland.ca has been created as a central place to find current community resources and ways to contribute.

Mamas for Mamas is also collecting essential items for parents, babies and families who have been displaced by the fires. Donations can be dropped off at their Kelowna headquarters at 1735 Dolphin Ave, Unit 120, Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. They’re also accepting items ordered online and sent directly to them, including through their Amazon Wishlist.

Because many displaced families are staying in hotels, RVs and temporary accommodations, Mamas for Mamas is asking that donations be packed in small bags or boxes whenever possible.

Every practical contribution helps right now, from diapers and toiletries to a gift card, a local purchase, or simply sharing where support is needed.

Official Information and Updates

For the latest verified information, please refer to these official sources:

BC Wildfire Service
Wildfire status, maps and updates for the Bald Range wildfire.

EmergencyInfoBC
Provincial emergency information, including evacuation alerts and orders.

District of Summerland
Local emergency updates, community information and available resources.

DriveBC
Current highway conditions, road closures and travel advisories.

Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre
Regional evacuation alerts, orders and emergency information.

Residents and visitors should continue to follow all evacuation alerts, orders and instructions issued by emergency officials.

Summerland’s recovery will continue long after the fire is contained, especially for the families, farms, wineries, cideries and small businesses whose livelihoods are rooted here. Visiting when it’s safe, buying Summerland wine and cider, ordering directly from producers, purchasing gift cards, booking future stays at Summerland Waterfront Resort and sharing these businesses with others are all ways to keep supporting the community in the weeks and months ahead.

Take a little time to discover the wineries, cideries, breweries, farms and other producers that make Bottleneck Drive such a special part of Summerland.

Visit their websites. Follow them on social media. Share their posts. Tell your friends about the places you love. And when you can, buy something.

A bottle of wine, a case of cider, a gift card, an online order or a future tasting-room visit all put support directly into this community.

Show these producers some love now, and keep showing up for them in the weeks and months ahead.

Explore Bottleneck Drive. Share widely. Choose Summerland.