California Wine Festival

$10 off tickets
Use CODE: LOCALDISH

photos by Luis Esparza

Wine lovers and food enthusiasts will have plenty to savor when the California Wine Festival returns to Dana Point April 24–25, launching its 2026 season with a weekend of coastal tastings, culinary bites and live entertainment.

The popular event unfolds at the oceanfront Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and the palm-lined lawns of Sea Terrace Park, creating a relaxed Southern California setting for two days celebrating the state’s acclaimed wine and food culture.

Festivities begin Friday evening with the Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting on the Del Mar Lawn at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Guests are welcomed with a sparkling wine reception before sampling limited-production and reserve wines from notable producers including Aperture Cellars, Bouchaine Vineyards, Cuvaison, Rombauer Vineyards and Trefethen Family Vineyards. The evening pairs these exceptional wines with gourmet hors d’oeuvres while offering guests the chance to meet winemakers and learn more about the stories behind the bottles. A silent auction featuring rare wines and exclusive tasting experiences will benefit the Sandy Feet Initiative, which supports siblings of children with special needs through beach-based programs.

Saturday afternoon continues the celebration at Sea Terrace Park, where white tasting tents dot the grassy park for an afternoon of wine, food and music. Guests can sample hundreds of wines alongside craft brews and artisan foods from regional restaurants and specialty purveyors.

Participating culinary partners include Glasspar, Bluewater Grill,
BeachFire Bar & Grill, Trevor’s at the Track and Brio Tuscany Grille, serving sample-sized bites designed to pair with wines from California producers such as Alma Rosa Winery, Bernardus Winery, Goldschmidt Vineyards and Navarro Vineyards.

Live music adds to the festive atmosphere as guests sip, sample and celebrate California’s vibrant wine culture under sunny coastal skies.

The 21-and-over event includes all wine and food tastings, live entertainment and a commemorative wine glass. For tickets and event details, visit CaliforniaWineFestival.com.