As the leaves begin to turn and the air acquires that crisp autumn edge, Niagara kicks off its biggest wine weekend: the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival. This long‑standing fall tradition draws wine lovers, foodies, families, and music fans from across Ontario for several days of wine, local culture, and community fun.

Grape & Wine Discovery Passes

If you’re looking to explore the region’s vineyards, the Discovery Pass is your gateway. There are a few options depending on how much time and how many wineries you want to visit — the standard “Discovery Pass,” the “Mini Pass,” a “Driver’s Pass,” and even a “Flex Friday Pass.” These passes give access to dozens of wineries spread across Niagara.

Events in Montebello Park, St. Catharines

Montebello Park becomes one of the centrepieces of the festival. Over a multi‑day span, you’ll find:

• Music, wine tasting, and local cuisine in a festive park setting.

• Montebello Rocks!: A special concert event, featuring bands like The Watchmen & Lowest of the Low.

• Harvest Lounge: A VIP style lounge with reserve wine bar, premium seating overlooking the park, and upgraded amenities.

• Private Cabana Rentals: For groups who want a little more exclusivity — a cabana for up to 8 people, inclusive of wine.

Family & Community Fun

The festival isn’t just for wine lovers — there’s a lot here for families and community spirit, too:

• Grape & Wine Grande Parade: Downtown St. Catharines comes alive in colourful procession.

• Family Fun Day: Inflatables, crafts, kids’ activities — perfect for bringing the little ones.

• Pied Piper Parade for Kids: A chance for children to dress up and march, celebrating Niagara’s farming heritage.

• Mayor’s Grape Stomp: Teams of participants (including, likely, some respectable local figures) compete in a foot‑stomp grape crushing relay.

• Yoga in the Park: For a relaxing Sunday twist, join a yoga session that wraps up with a sparkling Niagara mimosa.

Dates & Location

• The festival unfolds in early to mid‑September across multiple weekends.

• Montebello Park, in downtown St. Catharines, is the main hub for many of the large public events.

Why It’s Special

• Locally rooted: The event emphasizes Niagara wines, regional food, local culture and artisans. It’s very much a celebration of the place.

• Inclusive for different audiences: Whether you want premium VIP treatment, a casual stroll through wine booths, or kid‑friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.

• Community & festivity: Parades, grape‑stomping, music, crafts — this is as much about enjoying fall and community as it is about wine.

Tips for Visiting

• Consider buying the Discovery Pass that best suits your schedule and how many wineries you want to visit.

• If you want a more relaxed, upscale experience, the Harvest Lounge or a private cabana could be worth it.

• For families, plan around Family Fun Day or the parades so kids have dedicated events to enjoy.

• Montebello Park events are centrally located and tend to draw big crowds, so arriving a bit early could help.

If you’re planning a trip this September, the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival is one of those events that captures the best of wine, food, music, and fall in Ontario.

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