The Kentucky Wine & Vine Fest

The Kentucky Wine & Vine Fest is Kentucky's official wine festival, held annually in June in historic Nicholasville—just south of Lexington in Jessamine County. The 2026 edition marks the festival's 23rd year, featuring tastings from Kentucky wineries across the state set up under large white tents. Saturday's main event runs from noon to 6 p.m., with wine tastings priced at $25 for 12 samples and a $5 admission fee (children 5 and under free). The festival takes place in Jessamine County, home to North America's first commercial winery, founded by John James Dufour in 1799—a distinction that anchors Kentucky's modern wine revival.

Beyond tastings, the festival combines Kentucky arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and activities including the Run for the Merlot and Wine Toss competition. A Friday night event precedes Saturday's main gathering, offering wine, food, and music at historic downtown locations. Parking is free, and the outdoor venue welcomes families with inflatables for children.

Visitors should note that wine tastings require age 21 verification. The festival operates under a tented outdoor setup, and only service animals are permitted. Free parking and a $5 admission gate make the event accessible; wine tastings are optional and separately ticketed. Plan to spend 4–6 hours browsing wineries and enjoying the regional food and craft vendors. The festival's focus on Kentucky-made wines and local producers makes it a direct showcase of the state's wine industry growth over the past two decades.