From Vine to Valley, Taste It All!

There’s a certain rhythm to a good spring Saturday. It starts slow, picks up somewhere around your second sip, and by midafternoon you are deep in conversation with someone who just handed you a glass and a story to go with it. That’s the energy behind Sip The Foothills Wine Festival, landing April 25 at the Pellissippi State Community College Blount County Campus.

Set against the foothills, the festival brings together Tennessee wineries, cider makers, and meaderies in one easygoing, open-air setup. You aren’t just tasting; you’re meeting the people who planted, pressed, fermented, and bottled what’s in your glass. It’s equal parts social hour and small business showcase, with a local lean that feels genuine rather than staged.

A Walkable Pour Tour with Personality

The layout invites you to wander. Tents line the campus grounds, each one offering a slightly different take on what Tennessee can produce. You might start with something crisp and bright, pivot to a small-batch cider, then land on a mead that leans a little wild in the best way.

Between pours, the festival keeps things moving with food vendors and artisan booths that are worth a pause. It’s not background filler; it’s part of the experience.

• Chat directly with winemakers and learn what makes each pour distinct 
• Snack your way through local food options that hold their own 
• Browse handmade goods that feel more curated than craft fair 
• Settle into live music that keeps the afternoon from feeling rushed 

There’s no pressure to rush. The best plan is to follow your palate and let the day unfold.

Tickets That Match Your Pace

The ticket structure keeps things flexible. General admission gets you in the mix with plenty to taste and explore, while upgraded options add a little polish with guided pairings, workshops, and a more in-depth look at the craft behind the glass.

What stands out is where the money goes. Proceeds support local agriculture and student initiatives, which means your ticket does more than cover a good time. It feeds back into the same community you’re sipping through.

By the time you make your last round, it’s clear this isn’t just another tasting event; it’s a snapshot of a region that knows how to grow, make, and share what it does best.

If you’re looking for more ways to fill your calendar, explore upcoming events here: https://www.guidetotennessee.com/festivals.