Article by Elena Ferrarin
Communications Coordinator
Northbrook Park District
The Northbrook Park District and the Village of Northbrook opens in new tab are excited to present the 4th annual Grapes on the Green on Saturday, June 20.
The event welcomes adults to gather for an afternoon of wine tastings, light snacks, art, games and live music in beautiful Village Green Park in the heart of downtown Northbrook.
Northbrook Park District Board President Mike Goodman said the Park District is delighted to once again present Grapes on the Green in partnership with the Village.
“We created this event in response to the community’s desire for adults-only events, and it’s been exciting to see people respond with such enthusiasm year after year,” Goodman said. “Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy spending time in Village Green Park, Grapes on the Green provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for all!”
“Grapes on the Green is a wonderful example of what makes Northbrook special. As we celebrate our 125th anniversary, this event brings people together in the heart of our community to enjoy great wine, live entertainment, local art, and the beautiful setting of Village Green Park,” said Village of Northbrook President Kathryn Ciesla. “We are proud to partner with the Northbrook Park District to create experiences that strengthen community connections and showcase the vibrant spirit of Northbrook.”
Attendees can enjoy mural painting, games like bags and plastic axe throwing, and live music from guitarist/vocalist Peter Warren opens in new tab, who will play a blend of instrumentals, bossa nova, jazz and contemporary songs. This year, a new perk is a snack box containing chocolate, crackers, dried fruit and nuts for everyone who purchases a ticket.
Chicago Wine opens in new tab, a family-owned business with a retail store in Glenview, will showcase nine varieties of wine:
· Sparkling Mirabelle Brut Rose, California
· 2024 Elena Walch Pinot Grigio, Italy
· 2025 La Croix Rose, Provence
· 2024 Pazo des Bruxas Albarino, Spain
· 2024 Kumeu River Chardonnay, New Zealand
· 2023 Route Stock Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
· 2022 Benanti Etna Rosso, Italy
· 2022 Val di Suga Rosso di Montalcino, Italy
· 2021 Torres ‘Gran Coronas’ Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Spain
“We are looking forward to coming back for our 4th year for Grapes on the Green,” said Mike Widmaier, who co-owns the business with his wife, Paula. “It’s great to get the community involved and bring people together. We absolutely love that aspect.”
The wine selection consists of some of Chicago Wine’s best-sellers. “I try to offer a large selection of wines around the world so that there will be something for everyone, and everyone will have a chance to enjoy something they like. If you really love something, you can go back and taste it a second or third time.”
Grapes on the Green takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. on June 20 at Village Green Park, located at the intersection of Shermer Road and Meadow Road in Northbrook.
Tasting tickets are $49 and include 12, one-ounce sips of wine and a tote bag with signature Grapes on the Green wine glass and snack box. Participants will also have the chance to win free prize drawings. This year’s glass includes a special logo to celebrate the Village of Northbrook’s 125th anniversary.
Non-tasting tickets are $30 and include the tote bag with snack box as well as event activities.
The event is for adults 21 years and older only; infants, children and dogs are not allowed to attend. No outside beverages are permitted. People are welcome to bring their own blanket, chairs and picnic dinner. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Grapes on the Green.