BC Crimson Red Cranberries Belong On Your Holiday Table 

Each fall, the wetlands of British Columbia shimmer crimson as millions of cranberries rise to the surface during harvest. It’s one of the province’s most striking agricultural traditions and a reminder to buy local and put BC cranberries on your holiday table.

While many recognize Ocean Spray as a household name, fewer know that it is a farmer-owned cooperative. In British Columbia, dozens of multi-generational cranberry growers contribute their harvests to the co-op. 

This structure provides stability, global reach, and fair producer returns—and ensures that BC cranberry farming remains viable for future generations. Ocean Spray doesn’t own these farms; the farmers own Ocean Spray. 

In Pitt Meadows, the Hopcott Farms has become one of the region’s most recognized producers. Known for their market and butchery, the Hopcotts also manage more than 70 acres of Ocean Spray cranberries. 

A visit to their bogs during harvest is an immersive experience: hip waders, floating berries, and no sign of those pesky spiders I’d been warned off. They’ve even done some dinners and lunches right in the bog. 

Cranberry bogs are living ecosystems, supporting everything from migratory birds to native pollinators. Ocean Spray’s regenerative agriculture programs—from water recycling to pollinator stewardship—help BC farmers reduce environmental impact while boosting long-term soil and plant health. 

Whether fresh, frozen, or dried, BC-grown cranberries deliver vibrant colour and acidity that elevates everything from cocktails to cookies. These berries pack antioxidants, fibre, and that signature tartness that’s as welcome in a holiday punch as it is in a weekday salad. 

To celebrate the season—and the farmers who make it possible—here are two Cranberry Recipes perfect for entertaining. —Cassandra Anderton, Good Life Vancouver 

Cranberry Aperol Cider Spritz 

A bright, berry-forward twist on the classic Aperol Spritz — festive, stylish, and perfect for holiday gatherings. 

• 2 oz Sea Cider Sassamanash (Cranberry) cider 
• 1 oz Aperol 
• 2 oz Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice 
• 1 oz soda water 
• Fresh or frozen cranberries 
• Rosemary Sprig 

Fill a glass with ice. Add Sea Cider Sassamanash and cranberry juice. Top with Prosecco and soda water. Garnish with cranberries and an rosemary sprigg. 

White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies 

Chewy, buttery, and perfectly balanced—these cookies blend creamy white chocolate with the sweet-tart bite of Ocean Spray Craisins. 

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 
• 1 cup brown sugar 
• ½ cup granulated sugar 
• 2 large eggs 
• 1 tsp vanilla 
• 1½ cups flour 
• 1 tsp baking soda 
• ½ tsp salt 
• 3 cups rolled oats 
• ¾ cup dried cranberries (Craisins) 
• ¾ cup white chocolate chips 

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpat mat. Cream butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt; add to wet ingredients. Stir in oats, dried cranberries, and white chocolate. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.