Wine on the Fox festival returning to Oswego in May; tickets on sale now

Steve Romala pours wine at the Prairie State Winery booth during the 2016 Wine on the Fox festival in Oswego. Prairie State will be among the participating wineries at this year's festival set for Saturday and Sunday in Hudson Crossing Park.

Wine on the Fox, the village of Oswego’s annual wine-tasting event presented by john green Realtor, will return to the village’s downtown from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 7, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 8.

Back for its 16th year, Wine on the Fox offers the opportunity to taste from a selection of more than 100 Illinois wines, including August Hill Winery/Illinois Sparkling Co., Galena Cellars, Oswego’s Fox Valley Winery and two seasonal craft beers from Oswego Brewing Company. Local food vendors will offer sweet and savory options to pair with the event’s beverages, as well as nonalcoholic beverage choices.

“This year’s Wine on the Fox should be spectacular. We expect to be back to normal this year, and can’t wait to see the crowds enjoy this wonderful event in a beautiful setting,” Village President Troy Parlier said. “We’ll have a wide variety of wines, excellent food, great entertainment and fun for all.”

Participants can relax and enjoy the event in scenic Hudson Crossing Park along the east bank of the Fox River at 65 N. Harrison St. while enjoying live music from nine bands, including Junkyard Groove, Wild Daisy and the Bree Gordon Band with Swing Assembly Horns.

This family-friendly event includes children’s activities such as face-painting and easy access to a playground. The Mother’s Day Boutique will return with several village merchants presenting a pop-up shopping experience with a selection of gift choices for mom.

Proceeds from the event help offset the cost of the village’s annual event programming, and provide community amenities throughout the year. Fourth of July fireworks, Venue 1012 summer events and other fun for Oswego families are made possible by Wine on the Fox sponsors, participating businesses and attendees.

Ticket packages begin at $20, plus applicable online ticketing fees when bought online before the event, and include a commemorative glass, wristband and wine tickets. One ticket may be exchanged for a 1-ounce serving, allowing Wine on the Fox guests to taste and discover new favorites. Tickets also may be used for a 5-ounce glass. Bottles and cases will be available to buy for those who have purchased a ticket package.

Tickets and details

Admission to Wine on the Fox is free for all ages, however, those who want to consume alcohol at the event must be 21 or older, show a valid photo ID and buy a ticket package.

Purchase ahead of time to save money on each package and receive additional tickets. Advance Wine on the Fox ticket packages are available, including:

• Intro to Wine Package: $20. Eight wine-tasting tickets, commemorative glass and wristband.

• Wine Lover’s Package: $25. Twelve wine-tasting tickets, commemorative glass and wristband.

• Wine for Two/Mother’s Day Package: $45. Eighteen wine-tasting tickets, two commemorative glasses, two wristbands and Mother’s Day gift available from participating downtown merchants.

Tickets are on sale. Advance sales end at 11:59 p.m. Friday, May 6. Packages will be available for purchase on-site May 7 and 8 at a higher cost. Additional wine tickets are also available for $1 each at the event. Tickets are now available on the event website at www.wineonthefox.com.

Wine on the Fox will take place rain or shine.

Outside beverages are prohibited with the exception of bottled water, milk and children’s drinks.

Designated drivers receive complimentary bottled water and soda for their role in keeping the event and the community safe.

Volunteers are needed to help make Wine on the Fox a success. Financial donations are available to nonprofit, Oswego-based organizations that provide volunteers. Email community engagement coordinator Julie Hoffman at jhoffman@oswegoil.org for more information.

The village continues to welcome business sponsors for the event. Interested sponsors may contact Hoffman at jhoffman@oswegoil.org or 630-551-2344.