LODI, Calif. — The 85th Lodi Grape Festival kicked off Thursday, September 12, and will continue through the weekend.
It's CEO Mark Armstrong’s 32nd Grape Festival. He says a lot has changed from security and maintenance, to message as they’ve had to switch from advertising in newspapers to social media to spread the word.
“The one thing that hasn’t changed is the community support,” Armstrong said.
Armstrong estimates the four-day event generates about $3 million for the community, most of which goes to nonprofit organizations. It takes him and his staff all year to plan.
“My favorite thing is watching people enjoy the fruits of your labor,” Armstrong said.
About the festival
The Lodi Grape Festival is all about highlighting the price crop of the area the wine grape. It features wine tastings, grape murals and play areas, so there's fun for the whole family.
The festival will feature nine local wineries offering tastings of Zinfandel to Pinot Grigios inside the Ole Mettier Grape Pavillion. Tickets for the wine-tasting event are $20. You must be 21 or older to attend.
Hours
- Friday, Sept. 13: Noon - Midnight
- Saturday Sept. 14: Noon - Midnight
- Sunday Sept. 15: Noon - 11 p.m.
Location
Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, 413 E Lockeford St, Lodi, CA 95240
Entertainment
Country music star Joe Nichols highlights the Friday performances and “All-Star” performing Smash Mouth is the headliner for Saturday. They will be among a collection of other performers hitting the stage.
Outside of the musical performances there will also be attractions including carnival rides, a petting zoo and a reptile exhibit.
Tickets/Parking
- Anyone 13 years or older - $13
- Kids age 6-12 - $8
- 5 and under - Free
Parking is $12 at the three festival lots and can only be paid through credit or debit. The event isn't accepting cash or cash app payments for parking.
WATCH MORE: How California's oldest sparkling wine maker was saved by jailbreaking granny | Bartell's Backroads
