Sample Central Florida Wines at Winefest 2020

Long before the first orange groves were planted, Floridians were drinking another, more potent beverage: wine. In fact, Florida was the first place Europeans settlers in America made wine – beginning with the French Huguenots in 1562, who made wine from wild muscadine grapes in North Florida. Today, over 450 years after the first grapes were crushed, Lakeridge Winery continues Florida’s longstanding tradition of wine making. This popular winery in Central Florida is as well-known for its wine as it is for its festivals. This February, you can enjoy both at the 30^th annual Winefest.

Explore a Central Florida Vineyard

Winefest is as much a celebration of Floridian viticulture as it is of local artists and musicians. This year’s event spans three days and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on February 7 – 8 and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on February 9. You can purchase tickets at the gate or in advance via Eventbrite. Winefest is family-friendly and is open to all ages, although only those ages 21 and older who present valid ID may drink. Lakeridge Winery will continue to release details about Winefest as the date approaches, but for now, here’s a taste of what to expect at this year’s festival:

Wine Tastings

Lakeridge Winery’s famous Wine & Cheese Bar is an essential part of their festivals and special events. Here, you can enjoy their wines by the class as well as cheese plates featuring Boar’s Head meats and cheeses, Turkish apricots, and Marcona almonds. There is also a selection of beer to choose from.

You can also sample the Lakeridge Winery wines during a complimentary winery tour. The tours run every 15 to 20 minutes and include an overview of the wine making process as well as a tour of the production area and the vineyards. In the production area you can sample 6 to 8 wines.

Music

Pair your glass of wine from the Wine & Cheese Bar with some tunes from local musicians. The Wine & Cheese Bar will feature live entertainment from noon to 4 p.m. every day of the festival.

There will also be musical performances at the outdoor stage. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and picnic under the trees while enjoying the concerts. The entertainment lineups will be posted on the winery website as the event approaches.

Food

Satisfy your appetite at the Winefest food court. Here you’ll find a range of cuisines, including American, Greek, Mexican, as well as seafood, barbeque, wraps, and salads. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the ice cream and kettle corn. You can also find more wine and beer here, as well as soft drinks.

Art & Craft Vendors

In addition to all the wine, food, and music, there will also be an outdoor market featuring handmade items from local artisans. You can browse for souvenirs while enjoying the music and wine. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this is a perfect spot to find a unique gift for that special someone. The full list of vendors will be available on the winery website as the event approaches.

Stay nearby at Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista

After a relaxing afternoon enjoying the vineyards, come home to Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista. Enjoy a meal at one of our on-site eateries or bask in the sun by the swimming pools. We are located near the I-4 ramp, making it easy to get to Lakeridge Winery for Winefest, and we are also minutes away from the Orlando theme parks. To book your stay, call us at 407-996-7236 or click on the red button at the top of the page.