If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your weekend, look no further than Virginia’s wine festivals! As an oenophile (that’s a fancy word for “wine lover”), I’m always excited to explore new wines and meet other people who share my passion.
I’ve attended several of the best wine festivals in Virginia, and I can’t wait to tell you all about them.
So let’s dig right into my curated list of the best wine festivals in Virginia.
Virginia Wine Expo – Richmond
The Virginia Wine Expo is held annually in Richmond and is one of the most popular and well-attended events of its kind in the state. It’s an event that features hundreds of wines from over 25 different wineries, many of which are local.
The festival also offers educational seminars, cooking demonstrations, food vendors, live music, and more.
For six days, enthusiasts of all kinds can indulge in the finest beverages and meals that Virginia has to offer. From world-class wines crafted by local wineries to freshly made craft beers and delicious dishes prepared using only the freshest ingredients, this food and wine experience is simply remarkable.
It’s a great opportunity to learn more about wine and sample some delicious varieties from around the state.
- Address – Richmond Main Street Station, 1500 E Main St, Richmond, VA
Coastal Virginia Magazine WineFest
For those looking to explore Virginia’s rich and varied history in wine, there is no better way than at Coastal Virginia Magazine’s WineFest.
You can taste and discover the best local wines from throughout the state, visit a craft beer garden for some variety, and enjoy the Distillery Den to sample brandies, moonshine, and even more delicious drinks.
On top of it all, guests can indulge themselves in special events such as unique wine dinners or special vineyard tours to enjoy every flavor of Virginian viticulture.
Whether you’re a wine novice or an experienced connoisseur, Coastal Virginia’s WineFest is the perfect way to spend a weekend of good food, drinks, and company.
- Address – Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th St, Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival
People who yearn to relax and experience nature have the chance to do just that each year at the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival. This annual event is held near Richmond, VA, and celebrates the best of the great Virginia outdoors.
You get to enjoy learning from experienced local and national presenters, trying wine from nearby wineries, and exploring living history demonstrations throughout the festival grounds.
Participants can take part in fly fishing instruction and demonstrations, sample wines from local wineries and vineyards, and enjoy live music.
Whether you’re a passionate fly fisher or just love being outdoors and trying new wines, this festival is the perfect way to spend a weekend.
- Address – The Meadow Event Park, 13191 Dawn Blvd, Doswell, VA
International Wine Festival
Attendees of the International Wine Festival get the opportunity to experience a wide variety of wines from around the world.
You get to expand your tasting palate as you sample whites, bubbly sparklings, and bold reds, which will all be paired with complementary food offerings.
The festival is held in downtown Richmond and offers a truly unique experience that you won’t find in many other places.
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just looking for something new and exciting to do, the International Wine Festival is the perfect way to spend a day or two.
If you want to experience the ultimate wine journey, then be sure to head over to one of the most remarkable wine festivals in Virginia.
- Address – Taubman Museum of Art, 110 Salem Ave SE, Roanoke, VA
Appomattox River Wine Festival
The Appomattox River Wine Festival is the perfect springtime event for friends who are looking for something fun and unique. It takes place outside in the natural beauty of Central Virginia and features some of the best wines from the region.
This festival has something for everyone, whether your taste runs to savory whites, deep reds, or sweet desserts. Best of all, you can enjoy all of this with great conversations among good friends.
This springtime outdoor wine festival promises breathtaking views on the banks of the Appomattox River as well as the chance to learn more about the wines from local vineyards.
- Address – Appomattox Boat Harbor, 1604 Fine St, Prince George, VA
Wine & Whiskey
If you love chocolate, wine, and whiskey, then you have to check out Richmond’s Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival! This amazing festival features an unlimited tasting of chocolates and a wide variety of wines and craft spirits from local producers.
If you are looking for some delicious treats or a unique way to bring variety to your bar cart, you won’t be disappointed with the offerings at this festival. With all-inclusive tastings of both their sweets and their spirits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So if you are looking to spend a weekend of fun, food, and drinks with your closest friends or family, then be sure to check out Richmond’s Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival!
- Address – Richmond Main Street Station, 1500 E Main St, Richmond, VA
Gretna Strawberry and Wine Festival
I recently attended the Gretna Strawberry and Wine Festival; it was such an incredible experience. Everything was top notch, from the strawberry dishes that were both decadent and delicious to the array of wines to sample.
Of course, there are also additional attractions like cooking demonstrations and activities for the kids, making it a fantastic event for the whole family.
If you’re looking for a fun way to kick off your summer season while treating your taste buds at the same time, then the Gretna Strawberry and Wine Festival is a must-attend event.
- Address – Town of Gretna, Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Bacchus Wine & Food Festival
With an array of local craft beers, Chesapeake-inspired fare, and flavorful wines from some of Virginia’s most renowned wineries, the festival promises to be a truly memorable experience.
From local restaurants to Virginia wineries, you will find all the ingredients for a perfect evening at this one-of-a-kind event. Whether you are a wine aficionado or simply looking for a unique culinary experience, the Bacchus Wine & Food Festival is the perfect way to spend an evening in Virginia.
- Address – Virginia Living Museum, 524 J Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News, VA
Virginia Summer Solstice Wine Festival
I always look forward to attending the Annual Virginia Summer Solstice Wine Festival each year. The atmosphere is so vibrant, and there’s no better way to celebrate the birth of summer than with family, friends, and delicious wine.
There is something for everyone at the festival, which is held at Lazy Days Winery. While adults can sample a variety of award-winning wines and meet winery owners from all over Virginia, kids will find plenty to do too.
To top off the experience, there are food trucks serving up delicious delicacies that appeal to both young and old alike. We always have a great time at this exciting event.
- Address – Lazy Days Winery, 1351 N Amherst Hwy, Amherst, VA
Spring in the Vineyard Wine Festival
Every year, DeVault Vineyards excitedly celebrates the coming of springtime with the annual Spring in the Vineyard Wine Festival.
Nestled on a charming 35-acre farm winery off a dead-end road in Concord, Virginia, DeVault has earned a reputation as one of Central Virginia’s premier family-owned and operated wineries. From 8 signature wines to monthly events, DeVault Vineyards is home to something for every kind of wine lover.
The festival promises an unforgettable day of live music, food vendors, and fun activities for all ages. Whether you love spending time in the vineyard or simply want to taste some of Virginia’s best wines, be sure to mark your calendars and make plans to join this wonderful celebration of spring!
- Address – 247 Station Ln, Concord, VA 24538
Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
The Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour at Mount Vernon is the perfect way to spend a special autumn evening.
I was able to sample some of the tastiest wines from Virginia wineries while taking in the stunning views of the Potomac River that stretched for miles below us.
If need a memento of your visit, then it’s easy enough to purchase a bottle or two of something special from The Shops at Mount Vernon.
There is a Wine Valet Service that guarantees you your favorite wine will be waiting for you at the end of each Sunset Tour – perfect for those who want to enjoy a relaxing glass of wine after an eventful day of exploring the estate.
- Address – George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA
Final Thoughts
Virginia is home to some truly amazing wine festivals that offer something for everyone – whether you’re a novice or an experienced connoisseur.
From Richmond to Charlottesville and Staunton, these festivals are sure to delight your taste buds while giving you a chance to explore some of the best wines that Virginia has to offer.
An evening or weekend in Virginia is not complete without attending one of the many wine festivals that this state has to offer. Whether you’re looking for amazing wines, delectable food, or a fun and unique way to celebrate the coming of summer, autumn, or springtime, there’s sure to be a festival to suit your tastes in Virginia.
References
- Virginia Wine Expo (Link)
- Coastal Virginia Magazine WineFest (Link)
- Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival (Link)
- International Wine Festival (Link)
- Appomattox River Wine Festival (Link)
- Wine & Whiskey (Link)
- Gretna Strawberry and Wine Festival (Link)
- Bacchus Wine & Food Festival (Link)
- Virginia Summer Solstice Wine Festival (Link)
- Spring in the Vineyard Wine Festival (Link)
- Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour (Link)
