Features & Attractions

Immerse yourself in a world of wine in The Vineyard. This expansive tasting room showcases wines from six continents, offering a sensory journey unlike any other. Discover the nuances of sweet reds, dry whites, vibrant rosés, and sparkling wines as you explore the vast collection. With several Michigan wines featured, you’ll have the opportunity to support local producers and develop a deeper appreciation for the state’s diverse offerings. Elevate your tasting experience at The Elite Collection, where only the finest premium wines are curated. Hand-selected based on 90-point wine ratings, price points, and sommelier recommendations, these exceptional selections are perfect for those seeking the ultimate wine-tasting adventure.

Sponsored by: Wine Chips

Celebrate America’s top beer destination in Beer City Station. Located within Exhibit Hall C, Beer City Station offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with the talented brewers behind your favorite beverages. Discover the perfect pairings for your snacks, meals, and desserts, and experience the true essence of Grand Rapids’ thriving craft beer culture. This dedicated space also showcases the incredible diversity of craft brews, ciders, meads, and flavored malt beverages from around the globe. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local brewing scene as you sample hundreds of unique offerings.

At the back of the Vineyard, discover the world of distilled beverages in The Barrel Room. This dedicated space showcases a wide range of spirits from Michigan distilleries, including dark spirits like bourbon and whiskey as well as clear spirits like gin and vodka. Explore the intricacies of flavor profiles as you sample a variety of offerings, from smooth and smoky to bold and complex. Discover the perfect balance of sweetness and spice that makes each liquor unique.

Indulge in the best-of-the-best wines at the Elite Collection, nestled within the heart of The Vineyard. Savor a curated selection of exceptional wines that have earned 90-point or higher ratings, award winning wines, or notable labels among sommeliers. From renowned classics to rare and unique varietals, the Elite Collection offers something for every wine enthusiast. Discover hidden gems that should not be overlooked and expand your palate with new and exciting flavors. Check out the variety of themed tables and experience the pinnacle of winemaking.
West Coast Big Reds
Big reds with big taste
European Reds
Two tables of Italian, Spanish, and French wines
Better for the World Wines
Sustainably farmed and organic wines
Hottest White Wines of the World
Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Rieslings
Night Cap!
Wines to close out your evening perfectly

NEW THIS YEAR you can order the new favorite wines you’ve tasted in The Vineyard from Right Bank Wine Selections at the Festival. Take note of any new favorite selections you enjoy and head over to the Right Bank Wine Selections booth (#8 in The Vineyard) to order the wine and arrange pick-up from the Amway Grand Plaza.

Experience the pinnacle of culinary artistry with one of the Festival’s exclusive Pairing Dinners. Savor exquisite, multi-course dishes paired with perfectly complimentary wines, beers, or crafted cocktails in these hour-long seated dinners. Engage with the chefs, sommeliers, cicerones, and mixologists as they discuss their creations and the inspiration behind each pairing.
*Separate ticket required and sold online only.  Each pairing dinner time is limited to 20 seats. Festival admission sold separately.

View the menus HERE

Indulge your taste buds at the Festival with a diverse array of Small Plate Restaurants from some of the area’s most beloved eateries. Savor a variety of cuisines and culinary styles, spread all throughout the Festival. Experience the perfect blend of flavors that compliment the Festival’s exceptional wines, beers, spirits, ciders, and specialty beverages. Look for the yellow knife and fork signs hung over the restaurant booths or check the Festival floorplan for locations.

View the menus HERE

Located in the Secchia Lobby along the river, learn from the chefs at the Meijer Food Stage, where innovative food creators share their culinary secrets and techniques.

View the Food Stage schedule HERE

Sponsored by: Meijer

An exclusive chance to gain insights from skilled sommeliers, cicerones, and mixologists on their preferred beverages. This unique opportunity allows you to taste, inquire, and converse with professionals about a variety of drinks, broadening your palate and delving into the nuances of your favorite beverages.

• Beverage Tasting Sessions vary from 10 to 40 tasting tickets, depending on the quantity and type of beverages on offer.
• Each session offers 3-6 samples and lasts around 30-45 minutes.
• Limited to 24 seats per session.

Enjoy live music from local bands and musicians in The Vineyard and Beer City Station at select times and all day in The RendezBREW Café.

View the music schedule HERE

The Vineyard Stage sponsored by: Midtown
Beer City Station Stage sponsored by: Stella Artois