Naperville Wine Festival draws a return crowd
The Naperville Wine Festival this weekend offers plenty of vino to sip, to be sure, but the annual event is far more than just an opportunity to sample chardonnay and pinot noir.
Fest-goers can choose from more than 250 wines to taste while listening to bands, enjoying food from area restaurants, attending seminars and cooking demonstrations, and checking out vendors' wares and services.
"We have a lot of exhibitors who come out," said Mary Beth Bowman, event organizer for inPlay Events, which produces the festival for Van Kampen Investments. "Our event is pretty relaxed."
Vendors on the grounds from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday and 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, include a couple of jewelers, a chiropractor, a window replacement business as well as those offering wine-related items.
Several new wineries and restaurants also are represented this year. They include Cooper's Hawk Winery and Restaurant, The Melting Pot and Walkers Char House in Naperville, and the Gold Class Cinema opening this fall in Bolingbrook.
Entertainment is provided by the Michael Heaton Band from 8 to 9:45 p.m. Friday, the Dayna Malow Band from 3:50 to 5:20 p.m. Saturday and the Kim Massie Band from 7:10 to 8:45 p.m. Saturday.
Bowman said the festival, now in its seventh year, has been a popular event that draws visitors from out of town.
"We would anticipate about 7,500 people," she said. "We get a good return group because people look forward to it every year."
Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, and include 10 tastings and a souvenir wine glass. Designated drivers are admitted for $10 and receive two nonalcoholic drinks. The admission goes toward supporting a good cause as well as providing a good time. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the Naperville Area Humane Society.
If you go
What: Naperville Wine Festival
When: 4 to 10 p.m. Sept. 18, 2 to 9 p.m. Sept. 19
Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville
Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $10 designated driver
Info: (847) 382-1480 or napervillewinefestival.com