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Cedarburg once again hosting their annual Wine & Harvest Festival

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, September 19th 2025 at 11:47 GMT by fox6now
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Cedarburg Gears Up for Its 22nd Annual Wine Harvest Festival

By Local News Staff – FOX 6 NOW
Published September 2, 2023

The picturesque town of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, is once again preparing to welcome wine lovers and curious locals alike for the 22nd edition of its beloved Annual Wine Harvest Festival. Scheduled to run from September 8th through 10th, the three‑day event will bring together more than 70 local and regional wineries, family‑friendly entertainment, food vendors, and educational sessions that celebrate the region’s thriving viticulture scene.

A Tradition Revived

The festival’s return marks the first time the event has been held since the 2019 edition, after a two‑year pause caused by the COVID‑19 pandemic. “It’s been a long time coming,” said John Miller, the festival’s chief coordinator and longtime resident of Cedarburg. “We’re excited to bring the community back together and showcase the incredible wines that our area has to offer.”

The article on FOX 6 NOW notes that the festival has its roots in 2003, when a handful of local wineries gathered in a modest parking lot to celebrate the region’s first harvest. Over the years, the event has grown into a cornerstone of Cedarburg’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands of visitors from the Midwest and beyond.

What to Expect

Wine Tastings and Pairings
The heart of the festival remains its extensive wine tastings. With a lineup that includes both well‑known and boutique wineries—such as Cedarburg Cellars, Vine & Cider, and The Orchard Vineyards—attendees can sample a broad range of varietals. The official festival website, linked in the FOX 6 NOW article, lists tasting booths, each featuring a signature local wine paired with complementary foods.

Live Music and Entertainment
Entertainment is set to keep the crowds energized. The festival’s schedule—available on the festival’s Facebook page and the city’s official website—features live performances by regional folk, jazz, and indie bands. A children’s activity zone, complete with a petting zoo, face‑painting, and a mini‑village where kids can “grow” grapes, promises fun for families.

Educational Sessions
A highlight for many wine enthusiasts will be the “Wine 101” workshops, which cover topics ranging from grape cultivation to the winemaking process. A dedicated educational space will also host talks by industry experts, offering a deeper dive into the art and science of wine.

Food and Beverage Vendors
The festival’s culinary offerings mirror the diversity of its wine. Food trucks, local chefs, and craft beverage vendors will serve up everything from cheese platters to charcuterie, along with non‑alcoholic options such as artisanal sodas and craft coffees. The city’s tourism board—linked in the article—promotes the festival as a showcase for local gastronomy.

Community Impact

The festival’s economic ripple effects are significant for Cedarburg. The city’s mayor, Angela Reyes, highlighted that the event attracts a “steady stream of visitors who spend money on lodging, dining, and shopping in local businesses.” According to a study cited in the article (courtesy of the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce), the festival generates an estimated $2 million in revenue each year, supporting local jobs and encouraging repeat tourism.

The festival also plays an educational role. By hosting wine‑tasting workshops and sustainability talks, it promotes responsible drinking and highlights the importance of environmentally conscious viticulture. “We’re committed to showing people how much care goes into each bottle,” Miller added.

Logistics and Safety

The FOX 6 NOW piece emphasized that the festival will run on a clearly marked “Festival Path” through Cedarburg’s historic downtown and surrounding parks. City officials, as noted in a link to the municipal facilities page, have coordinated with local law enforcement to ensure crowd control and emergency preparedness. Traffic plans—including designated parking zones and a shuttle service from the main train station—are designed to keep traffic congestion to a minimum.

In addition, the festival will follow all state and local health guidelines, including mask requirements in indoor spaces and ample sanitizing stations throughout the site. The official festival website offers a detailed FAQ section for visitors who want to plan ahead.

How to Get Involved

The article concludes by inviting residents and visitors to register for the festival via the official website. Tickets can be purchased online for specific tasting packages or for a general admission pass. Early‑bird discounts are available until September 1st, and a portion of proceeds goes to support the Cedarburg Public Library’s “Wine & Learning” program—an initiative that offers free wine‑and‑food pairings for students and families, fostering education and community outreach.

For those who can’t make it in person, the festival will provide a live‑stream of its main events on the city’s YouTube channel, as announced in a link to the local media partner, WTMJ‑TV.

In Short

Cedarburg’s 22nd Annual Wine Harvest Festival is a multi‑day celebration that blends local culture, community spirit, and the region’s burgeoning wine industry. With its return after a pandemic‑induced hiatus, the event promises to bring back the familiar sights and flavors that have made it a cherished tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply looking for a fun, family‑friendly day out, the festival offers something for everyone. Tickets and more information can be found on the festival’s official website, linked in the FOX 6 NOW article. Don't miss out on what promises to be a standout weekend in Cedarburg’s calendar.