The Finger Lakes Wine Festival, one of the region's premier wine events, is set to return to Watkins Glen International from July 11-13, 2025. This year's festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with more than 80 wineries from across the Finger Lakes region participating.
What's New This Year
Festival organizers have announced several exciting additions for 2025:
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Expanded Craft Beverage Area: For the first time, the festival will feature a dedicated section for local breweries and cideries, reflecting the region's growing craft beverage scene.
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Educational Seminars: A series of wine education sessions led by local winemakers, covering topics from grape growing to food pairing.
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Local Food Vendors: Over 30 food vendors showcasing farm-to-table cuisine from Finger Lakes restaurants and farms.
Tickets and Accommodations
Early bird tickets are now available through the festival website. Weekend passes start at $65, with VIP packages offering exclusive tastings and meet-and-greets with winemakers.
Given the festival's popularity, visitors are encouraged to book accommodations early. The Watkins Glen area offers a range of options from lakeside resorts to charming bed and breakfasts.
Getting There
Watkins Glen International is located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake, approximately 90 miles from Rochester and Syracuse. The festival offers shuttle service from designated parking areas and select hotels.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking for a memorable summer weekend, the Finger Lakes Wine Festival offers a perfect opportunity to explore the best of what this beautiful region has to offer.