Photo courtesy of Arizona Wine Festival
The much-anticipated Arizona Wine Festival is set to return to Heritage Square on January 27 to 28, promising wine enthusiasts a weekend filled with exquisite tastes and vibrant culture. This annual event, renowned for showcasing Arizona’s finest wineries, also serves as a platform for local artists, food artisans, and entertainers.
The festival will open on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with tickets priced at $35 per person in pre-sale or $45 at the gate. The festivities continue on Sunday, Jan. 28, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with tickets available at $30 pre-sale or $40 at the gate. Each ticket grants the holder a commemorative wine glass and 10 tasting tickets, offering a chance to sample a wide range of local wines.
Featuring 20 of Arizona’s top wineries, including Birds & Barrels Vineyards, Bodega Pierce, and Carlson Creek Vineyards, the festival is a celebration of the state’s burgeoning wine industry. Alongside these wineries, over 40 non-winery vendors will display their crafts, ranging from fine arts to artisan foods and vintage items.
While the band schedule remains to be announced, the festival promises continuous entertainment throughout the weekend. Additional festival add-ons and activities will be disclosed closer to the event date.
The Arizona Wine Festival is a rain or shine event open to all ages, although wine and beer tasting is restricted to attendees aged 21 and over, with ID required. The event is easily accessible with ample parking and public transport options, including the light rail and ride share services.
Beyond the enjoyment of wine, the festival also supports local causes. Beer profits will benefit Horses Help, an organization dedicated to using horses to improve the quality of life for individuals with special needs and at-risk communities.
Participants are reminded that outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted, and open containers cannot be taken off the event grounds. Service dogs are allowed, and attendees under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Willcox Wine Country, the organizer behind this event, is a leader in Arizona’s wine production, contributing 74% of the state’s grapes. The region is known for its award-winning wines and the semi-annual Willcox Wine Country Festival, a top-rated event by notable critics.
The city of Willcox, central to the wine country, is a historic and cultural gem of southeastern Arizona. Established in 1880 as a railroad terminal, it has evolved into a vibrant community, serving as a gateway to local vineyards, national monuments, and forests.
The Arizona Wine Festival at Heritage Square, located at 113 N. 6th St., in Phoenix, offers more than just a taste of wine; it’s a celebration of local culture, art, and community spirit. For more information, visit willcoxwinecountry.org/event/the-arizona-wine-festival-heritage-square.
