Hundreds are expected to gather in the gardens of Brent and Becky’s, Ware Neck, on Saturday to visit the eighth annual Gloucester Wine Festival.
Thirteen wineries and a cidery will be on hand this year, offering the most selection ever in the festival’s history. It will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Gloria Williams, executive director of the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce which is sponsoring the event, said this year’s festival will be a great opportunity for out-of-town visitors to experience a taste of what the community has to offer from the numerous local vendors that will be present.
“It will also be an opportunity for vendors to showcase what they have to offer for our residents,” Williams said.
Confirmed wineries include: Williamsburg Winery, Ingleside Vineyards, Kilaurwen Winery, Saudé Creek Vineyards, Mattaponi Winery, Vintners Cellar Winery of Yorktown, Rebec Vineyards, Democracy Vineyards, General’s Ridge Vineyards, Good Luck Cellars, Vault Field, Oak Crest Vineyard & Winery, and Naked Mountain Winery. “In addition, we are excited to announce that we will have a Virginia cider-tasting provided by Cobbler Mountain Cellars,” she added.
The festival will feature wine tastings, educational seminars and live musical entertainment from Hampton Roads-based band, Slapnation from 1-4 p.m. The food garden will also feature a variety of options.
Williams said because of demand, this will be the first year the event will have beer available for purchase from the food garden. VA Blue Crab, Juan’s Mexican Café and Cantina, Kathi’s Clam Chowder, Creekside Catering Company, York River Oyster Company, Gumbeau’s, Prost!, Tidewater Oyster Farms and Northern Neck Popcorn Bag will be in the food garden throughout the festival, offering a variety of cuisine.
“This event brings our community together, offering a venue to showcase regional artisans and crafters, art, food, music, wine and a variety of industries,” Williams added.
All event parking is located at Ware Academy. Handicapped parking is also at Ware Academy. Shuttle buses will take patrons to Brent and Becky’s.
For more information about this year’s festival, or to purchase tickets, visit www.gloucesterwinefestival.com. Tickets can also be purchased at Brent and Becky’s, Juan’s Café, Franktronics, Whitley’s Peanut Factory and Kelsick Specialty Market. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.
People should buy their tickets as soon as possible from one of the participating merchants in advance, Williams said. She said tickets purchased online include a small convenience fee and if there are any tickets available the day of the event, they cost $5 more than if purchased in advance.