Northern California is home to all sorts of great food-themed festivals, but one of the best and biggest featured one seriously beloved fruit: grapes! The fun-filled event has been taking place annually for over 80 years, and it consistently attracts visitors from both near and far. Not only does this festival feature all of the grapes you could imagine, but it also contains endless entertainment and unique attractions. It’s a multi-day fiesta that the whole family will appreciate and it’s approaching soon, so keep reading to learn all about it.
The grape harvest is a pretty big deal in the town of Lodi. After all, they call themselves the "Tokay Grape Capital of the World". They also throw the Lodi Grape Festival every year, and it's an event that you'll definitely want to check out.
The grape festival debuted in 1937 and it's been going strong ever since. It definitely started out as a humble small-town celebration, but over the decades it has evolved into a multi-day event with entertainment, food, art, carnival attractions, and LOTS of grapes.
This year, the treasured festival will take place September 12 through September 15. Admission is $10 for everybody age 13 and up, $6 for ages 6 to 12, and free for kids under 5. If you've got a big family, we definitely suggest attending on Thursday Family Value Day (everybody 16 and under gets in free) or Friday "Free 'til 5 Day", which is exactly as it sounds like (everyone gets in free from noon to 5 p.m.)
The festival takes place over four whole days, but there's a lot to see during that time. From carnival rides to live concerts, there's never a dull moment at the grape festival.
One of the most anticipated events is the Wine Tasting, in which nine local wineries pour some of their finest wines for sampling. The cost for 10 tastings is $15 and includes a commemorative wine glasses. There are just four 2.5-hour sessions for tasting, so definitely be sure not to miss it.
The carnival portion of the festival boasts endless amounts of classic entertainment for your family to enjoy. With dozens of rides across all thrill levels to choose from, you'll want to make it your mission to try them all!
Additionally, you'll want to be sure to spend some time at the various stages located throughout the festival. Featuring a wide assortment of musical and other entertaining acts, you'll find that there's always something going on and worth checking out.
Come take part in a beloved Lodi tradition and be sure not to miss the annual grape festival. This event is far from your typical food festival. Instead, it's a celebration of local history and agriculture, and it's an absolute blast.
The festival will take place at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds. Address: 413 E Lockeford St, Lodi, CA 95240. For more information, visit their official website here.
Did you know about this iconic grape festival in our state? This is one fun event that every Northern Californian should check out!
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