With over 100 vendors, Pacific Gold Creamery, Hilmar Cheese Company, several wineries, craft breweries and a few new elements, the 40th Annual Riverbank Cheese and Wine Expo comes to the downtown area this weekend.
The expanded name formally lists the festival as the ‘Cheese, Wine, and Craft Beer Exposition’ and festivities are due both Saturday, Oct. 8 and Sunday, Oct. 9.
New to the festival this year will be an Oktoberfest Tent where guests can enjoy German brews and sing-a-longs. Entry is included with a tasting ticket or for a small fee of $5; guests can enter the Oktoberfest celebration.
The Cheese Zone is sure to please those cheese aficionados who attend the event wanting to sample an assortment of cheeses. The zone will be the hot spot for those feeling a little cheesy where they can savor a Tempura Cheesecake and deep fried cheese curds.
The wineries on the list to taste will include Van Ruiten, Flip Flop, The Wine Group, Ralston’s Goat, Blanc de Blue Cuvee, and Classic Wines of California.
For the beer tasters they can expect to taste Sandude, 21st Amendment, Yolo Brew Company, Lagunitas, Ballast Point, New Belgium and more.
David Galindo will bring a crew back to the Cheese and Wine event on Sunday, Oct. 9 for a skateboard demonstration and competition from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the city’s skatepark with three main events. There will be a game of skate which is similar to the game of horse and a timed jam session for skateboarders to show their skills. Registration is free.
There will be several live bands on hand with four different stages of music featuring acts including Jordon Waters, Bedheads, Callbox, Mattea Overstreet, Electric Gypsys, and many more.
The dancing horses will have a performance brought back by popular demand to the Hispanic Heritage stage along with live music and dance performances.
The collectible wine glass commemorating the 40th annual Exposition is on sale at the Riverbank Parks and Recreation office.
There will be a carnival with rides and games for families to enjoy along with food, crafts, and specialty items. Admission to the festival itself is free.
For more information and to purchase wine tasting tickets, visit www.riverbankcheeseandwine.org or stop by the office at 6707 Third St., Riverbank.
