For over 50 years and counting...the great Naples Grape Festival has transformed the quaint, peaceful village of Naples, NY into the center of the universe for one amazing weekend in September. Celebrating everything grape - the unique grape pie, cookies, tarts, ice cream, cotton candy, juice and of course, Finger Lakes wine! Dress up in your coolest purple outfit, bring the entire family and join in the fun of one of the greatest festivals in Ontario County!
I have attended the Naples Grape Festival for more years than I can remember. As a resident of Naples, I always enjoyed meeting up with friends, checking out the latest and greatest from local craftspeople, the amazing food and if you really know me - the live music! As the manager of The Naples Hotel, I experienced the festival for a few years as a true insider, which was both rewarding and exhausting - we rocked!
Please join the friendly, unique people of Naples as we celebrate the harvesting of the grapes and the beauty of the Finger Lakes in the fall! Check out my list of essentials to enjoy the Naples Grape Festival:
#1. The People - Naples is made up of a special array of wonderful people. Come to Naples and seek out the locals. I recommend a visit to The Naples Hotel and you will certainly experience what we fondly call "local color." You will witness tremendous pride in our small village and you will want to return again and again. Watch and listen as winemaker John Brahm, of Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery, gives you a sneak peek of what you can experience at the Naples Grape Festival!
#2. The Food - Not everything is made with grapes, but a lot of it is. The famous Grape Pie Contest takes place on Saturday and you can buy slices from the winners. Plan ahead to submit your entry next year. Food trucks and vendors are plentiful. My favorite is the artichoke French with greens & beans - I have been known to go to the festival just for this tasty treat.
#3. The Wine Walk - Located behind the Memorial Town Hall, the Wine Walk highlights numerous Finger Lakes wineries and craft brewers from Ontario County and surrounding areas. Admission to the Wine Walk is only $10.00. You may purchase wine by the bottle and take the taste of the Finger Lakes home with you.
#4. The Music - Experience live music Saturday and Sunday, from 11:00am - 5:00pm. The music tent is located behind the Memorial Town Hall, alongside the Wine Walk. The festival highlights local and regional acts, from rock to rockabilly, blues to bluegrass, jazz to folk and mixing in original tunes to satisfy every musical taste. Put on those purple dancing shoes and dance!
#5. The Arts & Crafts - The Naples Grape Festival is known for showcasing craftspeople from the Finger Lakes and surrounding areas. Jewelry, pottery, photography, fine art, clothing - you will not be disappointed with the selection and quality.
To experience the best of the Naples Grape Festival, I recommend that you live like a local. This means take your time and slow down, smile at strangers, experience the sights and sounds around you, taste the wonderful food and drink, dance to the music, and enjoy all that makes Naples unique. Join in the celebration of the grapes!