The Wilmington Wine & Chocolate Festival features fine wines and gourmet chocolate the weekend of January 30 through February 1. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or brisk jog along Wilmington’s 1.75-mile Riverwalk, which was recently voted the #1 Best American Riverfront by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Wilmington’s historic river district features more than 200 shops, restaurants, and attractions, all within easy walking distance.
Indulge in life’s tastiest pleasures—wine and chocolate—during the Wilmington Wine and Chocolate Festival (Jan. 30-Feb.1) at the Coastline Event Center (503 Nutt Street, Wilmington). Connoisseurs can sip, nibble, sigh and buy as they sample and purchase delectable delights from superb regional wineries, chocolatiers and artisans.
A Friday night Grand Tasting gala (7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.) kicks off with live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres ( by Catering Thyme) and a fine art exhibit. “The Schoolboys Band,” a popular local cover band, will entertain while wine and chocolate purveyors tantalize with tastings. Next door at the Riverview Room Bar & Terrace, a cash beer and cigar bar will feature a performance by “Basile, the Comedian” (8:00 p.m.).
On Saturday (11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.) and Sunday (12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.), the European-style wine and chocolate marketplace features more than 50 fine vintners, chocolatiers and artists. Marketplace diversions include: culinary demonstrations, a Kids’ Korner with arts/crafts, and live music by four jazz, acoustic and rock musicians.
Sunday will feature the band “The Use-to-Be’s” with playlists from the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s. Admission charge. Proceeds benefit the New Hanover County Senior Center’s programs.
Grand Tasting tickets are based on availability. Saturday and Sunday marketplace tickets are good for one day only. Discounts for children (ages 6-12)/seniors (60+)/military (w/I.D.). Group rates available for parties of 10 or more. For festival details, schedule of events and bands, advance tickets and partner hotels offering special festival rates for attendees, call 910-742-0120 or visit www.wilmingtonwineandchocolatefestival.com. Tickets are also available at Wilmington-area Harris Teeter stores.