Vintage Illinois Wine Festival

The Vintage Illinois Wine Festival takes place on Saturday, September 19, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, September 20, from noon to 5 p.m., at Carey Memorial Park in Utica. Attendees can sample a wide selection of award-winning wines from more than 20 Illinois wineries, including August Hill Winery, Fox Creek Vineyards, and Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery. The festival also serves as an opportunity to meet the individuals shaping Illinois' growing wine industry and enjoy a signature fall tradition in the Illinois Valley.

In addition to wine tastings, the festival features live music performances, with artists like Dan Hubbard and Matthew Pittman, Mr. Falcon, and the Steve Sharp Trio scheduled for Saturday, and Jason Benefield, Six Mile Grove Trio, and Jaik Willis performing on Sunday. Guests can also explore wares from local vendors and enjoy food from trucks such as Philly Factory and Mickey’s Massive Burrito.

General admission weekend passes are available for $45 in advance or $55 at the gate, which include 10 tasting tickets and a souvenir glass. VIP weekend passes, priced at $70 and not sold at the gate, offer 15 tasting tickets, a souvenir glass, a special gift from Illinois Wine, and early admission. Designated driver tickets cost $10. All attendees must be 21 or older and present a valid ID at check-in, with additional tasting tickets available for purchase on-site.