Over 100 Wine Varieties To Be Featured At 18th Annual Wine On The Fox

OSWEGO, IL — The popular Wine on the Fox event in downtown Oswego will return for its 18th year May 4-5, giving visitors the chance to try more than 100 wine varieties from Illinois wineries.

The spring event, also featuring live music, is set to take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 4 and from noon to 6 p.m. May 5 at Hudson Crossing Park, 65 N. Harrison St.

Although wine is the focus of the event, fest-goers can also sip different craft beers and non-alcoholic beverages as well as munch on sweet and savory options from food trucks.

GOOROOS, 28 Days, Karla & the Phat Cats, and The PriSSillas are slated to perform live at the family-friendly event, which features children's activities such as face painting and easy access to a playground.

"We're excited to pop the cork on spring with our popular wine festival," Village President Ryan Kauffman said in a statement. "You can't beat hanging out with family and friends along Oswego's beautiful Fox River while you sip wine and listen to music."

Proceeds from Wine on the Fox will help offset the cost of the village's annual events program and fund amenities for the community, according to a news release. The annual Fourth of July fireworks show and concerts and movies at Venue 1012 are made possible by sponsors of the wine event.

Admission to the event is free for everyone, but wine-tasting ticket packages begin at $20 and include a commemorative glass. One ticket will equate to a 1-ounce serving of wine, but tickets can also be stacked to get a 5-ounce glass.

The "Intro to Wine Package" costs $20 and includes eight tasting tickets. The "Wine Lover's Package" costs $25 and includes 12 tasting tickets. Participants can save some money by purchasing the "Wine Package For Two," which will run couples $45 and include 20 tasting tickets, two wine glasses and two gift vouchers for downtown Oswego merchants.

New this year is the opportunity to rent a private tent, available only May 4. The package, meant for six people, costs $550 and includes access to a private 10-foot-by-10-foot tent, 60 wine tickets, six stemless wine glasses and a large charcuterie board.