This Grape-Themed Festival In North Carolina Has Been Going Strong Since 2005

When you're there, it won't take long to understand why this longstanding-themed festival in North Carolina — the NC Muscadine Festival — has had so much success. It started in 2005 as the inaugural event at the Duplin County Events Center in Kenansville. Something about it must have clicked with the community as folks will celebrate its 19th year on Sept. 30, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Whether it's your first or your 19th, don't underestimate the fun you'll have dancing, wine tasting, and eating at this upcoming grape festival in North Carolina.

The scuppernong grape is so significant, it was named the official North Carolina state fruit in 2001.

The sweet fruit's namesake is from the Scuppernong River and settlement in Washington and Tyrell counties.

The festival will offer tastings of the grape from different wine vendors, including the Hinnant Family Vineyards.

Another of the many contributors is Cauble Creek Vineyard, which specializes in raising and producing the native Muscadine varieties of grapes.

You'll also enjoy exploring the numerous arts, crafts, and food vendors.

Our favorite activity is the Tailgating Decorating Contest, in which creativity abounds.

Some of the prizes include wine, t-shirts, and free tailgating space at next year's festival. The application deadline is Sept. 15.

If you make your own wine, participate in the amateur wine-making competitions.

For information call 910-296-2143.

Always showcasing a great musical lineup, some people just come for the live performances.

The exciting talent includes the following: 10:00 a.m.-noon,

Gary Lowder & Smokin' Hot; 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Band of Oz; and 4:00 p.m.-7 p.m., The Catalinas.

Here's a little glimpse of the fun you'll have at the NC Muscadine Festival:

https://youtu.be/dyxjTTjubuI

For more information about this longstanding-themed festival in North Carolina, visit the NC Muscadine Festival website. It's not too late to learn how to make wine for the amateur wine-making contest.

And speaking of wineries, while you're in Kenansville, visit one of the most haunted restaurants in North Carolina, The Country Squire Restaurant Winery and Vintage Inn.