A Wonderful Way to Experience Local Wine

Friday, Sept. 23

The 35th Annual Wine Country Harvest Festival from Sept. 23 to 25 will prove – again – that that there are some incredible wines and innovative vineyards just minutes from one another in a truly gorgeous setting.

Amy Vercant, executive director of the North East Area Chamber of Commerce, explains that the exclusive regional wines featured over the weekend are what make the festival truly exciting. From 6 Mile Cellars to Mazza Vineyards, wineries large and small will sample their wares.

Tunes will be supplied by 17 bands, including The Conchords, Dangerbird, Americana Songbook, and the Four Jays. Throughout each day, guests can sample wines, check out crafts, and bring the kids to activities at both Gibson Park and Gravel Pit Park.

Since this is a special year, WineFest will be introducing what will hopefully be a new tradition: a Stomp Off. From noon to 2 p.m. in Gibson Park on Sept. 24, contestants will be paired with local celebrities to compete in a grape-stomping contest. Ordinary folk will be attempting to win North East gift certificates, while celebrities will be flexing their leg muscles to support a local charity of their choice. – Miriam Lamey

Gravel Pit Park, 10300 West Main Road, and Gibson Park, Routes 20 and 89, North East // nechamber.org/pages/AboutWineFest