Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Icewine Festival is back, with two weekends of icewine from local wineries and icewine-inspired culinary creations from local restaurants offered on Queen Street.
The popular Icewine Village will be open Jan. 21 and 22, Jan. 28 and 29, organized by Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake.
“This year’s festival is back and better than ever, with unforgettable wine and culinary experiences,” a news release from the NOTL Chamber of Commerce promises.
New this year, guests are invited to enjoy live entertainment, an informative speaker series, and culinary and mixology demonstrations. As well, the first ever VIP Lounge area will offer an exclusive experience which includes fire tables, private seating, and an icewine cocktail bar.
VIP pass holders will receive complimentary tokens as well as elevated culinary offerings, with passes at $150 per person.
To open the festival, the Sparkle & Ice Gala returns this year to launch the event on Friday, Jan. 20, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Court House, featuring winemakers sharing their favourite wines paired with icewine-inspired culinary dishes.
The evening begins with a welcome icewine cocktail, continues with live entertainment and is topped off with an outdoor fireworks display.
The Icewine Cocktail Competition returns with a new look on Saturday, Jan. 28 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering signature icewine cocktails for guests to taste and later judge. The historic Court House is transformed into a glamorous lounge where guests are invited to enjoy musical entertainment, a live DJ and fun photo booths. Included with the purchase of a $75 ticket is the opportunity to taste up to three icewine cocktails.
“Winter is a unique and magical time to discover Niagara’s wine country and showcase one of our most cherished products, icewine,” says Minerva Ward, president of the NOTL Chamber of Commerce and Tourism NOTL. “We are excited to see the Sparkle & Ice Gala return, which is a must-do event to start the Icewine Festival and the new year. There are many reasons to celebrate Ontario wines this season right here in NOTL, and icewine is one of the finest wines we produce.”
But the festivities don’t stop there, says icewine committee chair Andrew Niven. “The Icewine Village in our downtown Heritage District is the highlight of the festival. Taking place over the last two weekends in January, visitors can enjoy culinary creations, live entertainment, ice displays and of course icewine. There will be lots to do, with side trips inside the warm and welcoming shops.”
For more information or to purchase tickets, call 905-468-1950 or visit niagaraonthelake.com.
