Experience the beauty and bounty of Southwest Michigan

Published 10:36 am Thursday, October 2, 2014

The New Buffalo Wine Festival will be held in conjunction with Harbor Country's Harvest Days during Columbus Day Weekend. (Submitted photo)

The New Buffalo Wine Festival will be held in conjunction with Harbor Country’s Harvest Days during Columbus Day Weekend. (Submitted photo)

NEW BUFFALO, Mich. — In the rolling hills of Southwest Michigan, nothing says “autumn” quite like the harvesting of fully ripened crops and plump fruits. In preparation and celebration of this plentiful season the New Buffalo Business Association is hosting the 7th annual “New Buffalo Harvest & Wine Fest” on Saturday, Oct. 11th from noon to 10 p.m. EST. The festival will take place in Lion’s Park adjacent to the boat launch and beach parking lot in downtown New Buffalo.

Representing all that the season has to offer, the Harvest & Wine Fest boasts an abundance of family-friendly activities including nonstop live music under a big top tent, horse-drawn wagon rides, unique art vendors, world-class wines from Southwest Michigan, tasty fare from area restaurants, pumpkin painting, a bounce house and more. There is truly something for everyone! Musical talent includes The Neverly Brothers (8 p.m.), 5 O’Clock Somewhere (5:30 p.m.), Slim Gypsy Baggage (3:45 p.m.), Rebecca Anne Band (1:30 p.m.) and Everyday People (12 p.m.).

Participating wineries include The Round Barn Winery, Free Run Cellars, Domain Berrien, Founders Wine Cellar and Warner Vineyards. For “Hopheads” who enjoy good Harvest Ale, Round Barn Brewery will be at the helm of the beer tent with several of their microbrews.

Planned in conjunction with the well-established “Harbor Country Harvest Days”, the New Buffalo Harvest Fest will serve as a focal-point to this three-day tradition.

“We’ve designed the festival to celebrate all of the abundance of Berrien County’s farms and produce. What better way to give thanks than a day in Lion’s Park with live music, great food, local wine and beer and awesome vendors.” said Colleen Ryan, event producer, Traffic PR & Marketing. “We are very excited to have Round Barn Winery & Brewery back again along with The Neverly Brothers who are a crowd-favorite.”

Harvest & Wine Fest kicks off at noon until 10p.m. Eastern Time. Suggested donation at the gate is $5 per person – children 12 and under are free. For updates and more information, go to www.newbuffalo.org or call (888) 660-6222.