Grapefest, Grapevine

When we moved to Texas, we were told by several individuals to be sure to attend GRAPEFEST. It's an event held each September in Grapevine that gives the public an opportunity to sample and rate the wines of Texas.

This year 39 wineries set up shop to introduce visitors to their wines. A charge of $15.00 admission presented samplers a wine glass and a tentful of wines to taste. The various wineries were established at tables beneath a large canopy; each noted by a sign.

At first long lines clogged the sample tables, but eventually the crowd moved on. Each wine tasting session was 1 1/2 hours in duration--at least six different sessions were scheduled throughout the day beginning around 11:30 am and continuing to the evening.

Grapefest is promoted as the largest wine festival in the Southwest. It began in l987 and is in its 20th year. At the end of the day, the best wines are declared by ballot by those who attended the wine tasting sessions.

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Aside from offering a multitude of wines to be tasted, Grapefest offers other family-friendly activities during this weekend in September.

Row after row of vendors offering handmade jewelry, artwork, ceramics, glassware, souvenirs, snacks, leather products and many other wares greet the visitor to Main street.
If your timing is perfect, you might catch a glimpse of GRAPEMAN or view The Side Street Circus presenting magic, mime, music and juggling!

Open the door to tasty treats such as funnel cake drizzled with powdered sugar, a sky high ice cream cone, hot dogs with sauerkraut or delight your children with amusement rides. All this is yours with a simple purchase of refreshment or ride tickets.

This was our first GRAPEFEST and I imagine it will not be our last!