This weekend, starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12 the City of Riverbank invites you to enjoy the many offerings at Riverbank’s 43rd annual Cheese and Wine Exposition.

That’s when the festival itself opens; prior to that, there will be the annual Run for the Cheese events staged at Galaxy Theatres on Patterson Road.

Also, be sure to look for the Riverbank High School Band Boosters organization, one of many that will be taking part in the expo; the group will be selling chances on a 50-inch big screen television and designer purses as a fundraiser. The booth will also be selling cotton candy. Many local organizations host booths to get either their information out to the public during the event or to raise money for programs and services.

Back by popular demand as part of the expo, the craft beers are returning to the mix. More than 100 vendors, consisting of artists and crafters from all over the United States, and food booths, will also add excitement to this festive occasion. The award winning cheeses, wines, and craft beers are guaranteed to tantalize taste buds.

According to organizers, the Antigua Event Center will serve as the heart of the 2019 Riverbank Expo Cheese, Wine, and Craft Beer Tasting.

The tastings will feature a wide array of locally produced artisan cheeses, wines that showcase the Central Valley’s most outstanding grapes, several varietals that are newly being imported to this region, as well as a selection of craft beers – all individually chosen to highlight the best and most delicious tastes of our region.

Tasting tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the event, available for purchase at select outlets and online at https://riverbankcheeseandwine.com/tasting-tickets.

In addition, the street faire will offer up over 100 vendors, food, a full carnival kids area with rides and games, and live music. The festival is an event planned for the whole family.

Admission is free and the festival runs both Saturday, Oct. 12 and Sunday, Oct. 13.