Courtesy Asper Studios
Raise your glass — GrapeFest 2025 is uncorking four days of wine, food, music and culture in the heart of historic Grapevine.
Now in its 39th year, this award-winning festival returns September 11–14 with bold new flavors, timeless traditions and a fresh twist: The Grape Gatsby.
Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or a curious sipper, here are 7 must-know things about GrapeFest 2025 before you swirl, sniff, and sip your way through Texas’ most iconic wine celebration.
1. GrapeFest Gets Glam with a “Grape Gatsby” Theme
This year’s festival theme brings a sparkling dash of Roaring Twenties flair to Grapevine’s Main Street. Inspired by the centennial anniversary of The Great Gatsby, expect art deco vibes, dapper outfits and maybe even a few flapper-style surprises.
2. Travel the World with a Wine Glass in Hand
The International Wine Experience, sponsored by the Gaylord Texan Resort, offers a global tasting journey featuring wines from: Barossa, Australia; Krems, Austria; Parras de la Fuente, Mexico; and Canada’s wine regions
Tasting cards are available in two sizes: four one-ounce pours for $16 if bought in advance or $20 if bought at the festival; and six one-ounce pours for $24 in advance or $28 if bought at festival.
Snag a ticket to the VIP Lounge for six tastings + a full 4-ounce pour of an exclusive wine, plus access to a luxe tasting lounge. ($38 advance / $42 at the door)
3. Expand Your Palate with Master Classes & Tastings
Get a taste of education with two beautifully curated wine seminars:
Barossa Master Class: Led by international wine educator Mark Rashop, this guided tasting features six exquisite wines from South Australia’s famed Barossa Valley.
Thursday & Sunday at 1 p.m. | $15 per person | Grapevine Tower Gallery
Around the World in 80 Minutes: Join wine expert Lisa Pacioni as she leads a horizontal tasting of Rieslings from four continents.
Friday at 6:30 p.m. | $25 per person
4. Sip and Judge at the People’s Choice Wine Tasting Classic
Texas wines take center stage in this fan-favorite competition—the largest consumer-judged wine event in the U.S. Sip your way through a diverse lineup of Texas varietals (sweet, dry, red, blush—you name it) and vote for your favorites.
Tickets: General, $28 (advance) / $32 (festival); VIP (shaded seating, bonus tastings), $55
5. More Than Wine: Stomping, Spraying & Champagne Sipping
GrapeFest’s charm goes far beyond the wine glass. Some not-to-miss experiences:
GrapeStomp: Compete to stomp 18-pounds of grapes in 2 minutes. Winners earn the ultimate badge of honor—the Purple Foot Award.
Champagne Cork Shoot-Off: Aim. Pop. Win. It’s a bubbly battle of skill and precision.
Reimagined Champagne Terrace: Sip sparkling wines under a breezy canopy in a more elevated, elegant experience.
6. Music, Markets & Family-Friendly Fun
You don’t need to drink to enjoy GrapeFest. Here's what's happening beyond the wine:
Live Music on multiple stages from Texas artists and tribute bands
Midway games & rides for kids (and the young at heart)
KidZone with hands-on fun and family activities
Artisan Marketplace featuring handmade goods, Texas treasures and local eats
Festival food favorites like fried Oreos, turkey legs, charcuterie and gourmet snacks
Plus, Grapevine’s local shops, tasting rooms, and cafés spill into the streets for an immersive small-town Texas vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
7. Plan Like a Pro: Tickets, Tips & Insider Deals
General Admission: Adults: $12; Seniors/Children: $6; Weekend Passes: $25
Parking & Transit: Free shuttles run from remote lots. Ride-share drop zones and nearby hotel packages make it easy to stay close to the action.
Where to Stay: Book early at nearby resorts like the Gaylord Texan, or check into boutique hotels, B&Bs, or vacation rentals within walking distance.