October 16, 2025

How to Host (or Join) a Virginia Harvest Party

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Every October, Virginia’s wine country comes together to celebrate the season’s bounty with Virginia Wine Month. This year’s Harvest Party takes place on Saturday, October 18, a homegrown holiday that honors the hardworking hands that bring Virginia Wine from vineyard to glass and invites everyone to join in the toast.

Whether you head to a winery event or host your own gathering at home, Harvest Party is your chance to slow down, connect with friends, and savor the flavors of fall. Here’s how to make the most of it.

1. Start with Virginia Wine

At the heart of every Harvest Party is Virginia Wine. Whether it’s a bright Petit Manseng or a bold Cabernet Franc, there’s a bottle made for sharing. Visit a local winery, pick one up from your neighborhood shop, or open something special from your collection.

Find Virginia Wine 

2. Download the Harvest Party Cookbook

No Harvest Party is complete without delicious, local food. Download the Harvest Party Cookbook, featuring seasonal dishes created throughout wine country, each thoughtfully paired with local wines. Use it as inspiration for your menu, whether you’re hosting a backyard feast or a cozy dinner indoors.

Download the Harvest Party Recipe Book

3. Join a Harvest Party Event

Wineries across the Commonwealth are also celebrating Harvest Party, with farm-to-table dinners, vineyard gatherings, and outdoor tastings surrounded by fall foliage. Explore the list of participating events and find one near you.

See Harvest Party Events

4. Host Your Own Gathering

Create your own Harvest Party at home. Invite friends to bring their favorite Virginia wines, set a simple table with local ingredients, and let the conversation flow. The spirit of Harvest Party isn’t about formality—it’s about community, gratitude, and enjoying what Virginia has to offer.

Throw Your Harvest Party

5. Share Your Celebration

Raise a glass and share how you’re celebrating using #HarvestPartyVA and #VAWineMonth and tag @vawine. From a toast at your local tasting room to a meal shared at home, your moments are part of a statewide celebration of the season’s bounty. 

Celebrate on October 18th

Harvest Party is more than just another day. It’s a reminder to celebrate the people, land, and flavors that make Virginia Wine so special. However you take part, join the statewide toast this October 18th and experience the joy of Harvest Party!

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