Naples Grape Festival

Naples Grape Festival

The Naples Grape Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage and grape production in the Naples region of New York State. Held in the picturesque Finger Lakes area, this festival has become a significant attraction for both locals and tourists, showcasing the community's deep-rooted connection to grape cultivation and wine making.

The festival typically takes place over a weekend in late September, coinciding with the peak grape harvest season. It features a wide array of activities, including wine tastings, grape pie contests, and live music performances. Artisans and crafters from the region also participate, displaying their works in booths that line the festival grounds.

One of the highlights of the Naples Grape Festival is the grape pie contest, which draws bakers from across the state to compete with their homemade recipes. This contest not only celebrates the culinary aspect of grapes but also pays homage to Naples' claim to fame as the "Grape Pie Capital of the World."

In addition to the festivities, the Naples Grape Festival serves as an important platform for local viticulturists and winemakers to showcase their products. The Finger Lakes region is renowned for its wine production, particularly of Riesling and other cool-climate varietals. The festival allows visitors to sample a wide range of wines, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the local wine industry.

The event also includes educational components, such as seminars and workshops on grape cultivation, wine making, and the history of the region's grape industry. These sessions provide valuable insights for both the general public and industry professionals.