Vilano Beach
Keeping it Casual in Vilano Beach.
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The wildest weekend in November just got a little wilder!
Join us at the Whiskey, Wine & Wildlife Festival and savor renowned whiskeys, spirits, wines and beers, indulge in some of the finest cuisine by the best chefs in Northeast Florida and local culinary superstars, and experience coastal wildlife up-close. All while helping to support Vilano Beach Main Street and the GTM Research Reserve. It’s all taking place oceanside and riverfront with live music and that famously relaxed Vilano vibe.
The Whiskey, Wine & Wildlife Festival combines the finer things in life for enthusiasts of spirits, wine, and wildlife. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Vilano Beach, this festival offers a unique blend of entertainment and education. Attendees can indulge in tastings of some of the finest whiskeys and wines from around the world while taking in the natural beauty of the coastal setting. The event typically features a wide array of whiskey and wine vendors, each offering their distinct flavors and expertise to help guests explore and appreciate the art of spirits and wine. What sets this festival apart is its commitment to wildlife conservation, as it aims to raise awareness and funds for various wildlife preservation projects. Throughout the event, there are opportunities to learn about local and global wildlife conservation efforts, making it not just a feast for the senses but also a celebration of our natural world.
In addition to the libations and conservation efforts, the Whiskey, Wine & Wildlife Festival offers a diverse range of entertainment options. Guests can enjoy live music performances, culinary demonstrations, and art exhibitions that further enhance the overall experience. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey or wine connoisseur or simply someone looking for a fun and engaging way to spend a day by the beach, this festival offers a little something for everyone. With its combination of high-quality beverages, stunning surroundings, and a focus on environmental preservation, the Whiskey, Wine & Wildlife Festival is a memorable event that draws attendees from all around to savor the finer aspects of life while giving back to the planet.
Highlights of the festival include some favorites and some great new events:
Pesca by Michael’s W3 Wine Dinner, Cocktail Reception, 6:30 p.m., Dinner at 7 p.m.
At Pesca by Michael’s in the Hyatt Place, the perfect place to kick off the festival with a four-course dinner by Executive Chef Michael Lugo and the VIVA Hospitality Team. Pairings for each course provided by St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Sonoma, CA. Tickets: $225 per person
W3 Master Classes, Tickets: $79 per class
Vilano A1A Soiree, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Sample some of northeast Florida’s best restaurants with gourmet bites, at the Hyatt Place. Receive a souvenir glass for unlimited beer, wine and spirits tastings, live music and more. Tickets: $109 per person, limited tickets available.
Guided Tour through the GTM Research Reserve/Wine & Cheese Paired Reception at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas (GTM) Research Reserve, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Experience wildlife up close with a private guided tour of the great coastal outdoors in this nature preserve teeming with a diversity of plants and animals. Tour concludes with wine tastings and specialty cheese pairings. Tickets: $45 per person
W3 Grand Tasting – Whiskey, Wine & Wildlife, 2-5 p.m.
The main event at the Hyatt Place where you can indulge in culinary delights from northeast Florida’s best chefs and restaurants. Enjoy hundreds of unlimited varieties of spirits, wines and beers with a souvenir glass and live music in the Wildlife Lounge. Tickets: $129 per person, all-inclusive with food and drink tastings included.
W3 Sunday Jazz Brunch, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 12:30-2 p.m.
The grand finale brunch at Pesca by Michael’s is a great way to end the wild weekend with all-inclusive culinary drink ticket for gourmet stations at the Brunch Buffet. Beverage tasting stations include sparkling wine, Mimosas, Bloody Marys, spirits, wine and beer. Tickets: $119 per person, family-friendly event, 3-12 years old, $39
There’s so much more! For tickets and schedule of events, visit here.
With parking limited at Vilano Beach, satellite parking and Old Town Trolley stops will be available for Saturday’s Main Event, FREE for festival guests. Check the festival website for shuttle schedule.
