On Saturday, November 23, the Corpus Christi Wine Festival will again transform Heritage Park into a haven for wine lovers. Now in its sixth year, this highly anticipated event promises to blend tradition with exciting new features, making it a must-attend experience for locals and visitors.
“Building a wine culture in Corpus Christi has been something that has been important to us,” co-organizer Frank Arriaga shared. “We’ve seen the growth of the event, and we’re just excited for people to come and see how we’re trying to continue to improve it.”
With over 100 varieties of wine, including selections rarely found in Corpus Christi, the festival will surely delight every palate. In addition to the extensive wine offerings, attendees can enjoy food trucks, artisan vendors, and vibrant live music.
What’s New at This Year’s Festival?
Organizers are pulling out all the stops to elevate the experience. “The Taste of Texas has expanded out to the rose garden,” said co-organizer Dave Berlanga. “We’ve also expanded the VIP area, giving more room for everyone to enjoy a lounge-like atmosphere.”
Safety and comfort have also been prioritized. “We upgraded our tents to be safer,” Arriaga noted. “In addition, we’re introducing a new feature, the Dope Barbecue Lounge, located in the heart of the park. It’s a unique space where people can savor delicious food, enjoy the weather, watch football, and simply hang out.”
Entertainment Highlights: Live Music, Alpacas, and More
Music lovers will be thrilled with performances from over a dozen acts, including headliners Donavon Frankenreiter and Bart Crow. But the fun doesn’t stop there—unique activities like paint-and-sip sessions, face painting for kids, and even alpacas from Texas Party Animals ensure a memorable experience for attendees of all ages.
Returning for the second year, the alpacas will undoubtedly be a hit with families, offering an adorable photo opportunity. Additionally, wine drinkers can explore the craft beer area or witness the excitement of the chef showdown at 4 p.m.
A Mission to Expand Corpus Christi’s Wine Culture
Corpus Christi doesn’t traditionally have a reputation as a wine city, but this festival sets itself apart by embracing that distinction. Arriaga, Berlanga, and Virginia Perez—a group of friends and co-organizers—work to fill this cultural gap.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to educate those who might not necessarily be wine drinkers,” Perez explained. “With over 100 varieties, there’s something for everyone to discover.”
For the organizers, the festival is more than just an event; it’s about fostering connections. “Wine is something that we associate with friends and family,” Arriaga added. “We’ve always enjoyed that time together, and it’s nice to facilitate it for others.”
Ticket Details and How to Plan Ahead
Tickets are $30 and include access to tastings. Prices range from two to six tickets for tastings, four to eight tickets for half glasses, and eight to 17 tickets for full glasses. Organizers urge attendees to purchase tickets on the festival’s website early to avoid missing out, as limited capacity led to a sellout last year.
The festival will run from 3 p.m. to midnight, giving attendees ample time to explore, sip, and savor. However, organizers stress the importance of responsible planning. Organizers encourage attendees to arrange a designated driver or use ride-share services to ensure everyone gets home safely.
Don’t Miss This Celebration of Wine and Community
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious about expanding your palate, the Corpus Christi Wine Festival offers an unforgettable day of discovery, entertainment, and camaraderie. Mark your calendar for Nov. 23 and head to Heritage Park for an event that will become a cherished annual tradition.