I went to the inaugural Austin Wine Festival last year at Republic Square Park and it was incredibly well-run for being in its first year. This year, it moves to The Domain, which bums me out, because the downtown location was a neat touch. BUT being at The Domain affords them other opportunities, like setting up a Whole Foods Bistro with cheese samplers.
Anyway, one of the main things that sets this festival apart (because who doesn’t love to sample wine?) is that you can buy bottles from the booths–that and tickets are just $20. So if you find a really great wine, you don’t have to write it down and lose the piece of paper and always wonder–you just buy it there! I fell in love with a wine last year (okay, okay, the man behind the table was also pretty attractive) but didn’t buy a bottle because I figured I’d just get it at Grapevine later. Turns out they don’t sell their wine anywhere but their winery … I should have taken advantage.
Here’s what the AWF has to say about their event:
Our emphasis on local wines, food and entertainment continues with event proceeds benefitting the Austin Farmers’ Market.
Not only is our ability to sell wine unique, but our entertainment and ticket prices rock as well.
Many large wine events are scattered in multiple locations. The AWF is located entirely in ONE location for THREE days. A novel idea so friends have more time to relax, unwind and enjoy some of the best Texas has to offer.
While you taste the splendor of the fruits of our wineries‘ labors, your kids will enjoy our extravaganzas such as balloon artists and face painting, plus outdoor laser tag and a mobile video game theater by Games2U! (see Schedule Page)
Imagine an entire grassy acre of music, food, fun and vino bliss.
It lasts this Saturday through Monday, so put it on your Memorial Day Weekend schedule!