Festivals Feature North Carolina Wines, Traditions and a Whole Lot of Fun
In the heart eastern North Carolina, Duplin County is also the heart of wine country. Along I-40 and just a short drive from both I-95 and the popular North Carolina beaches, this beautiful region is home to acres upon acres of muscadine vineyards. Award-winning wineries here produce a collection of some of the most sought-after wines of their kind. And here, the grape is reason for celebration! But it’s not the only reason. The region’s rich agricultural heritage, along with its famous barbecue, also spark celebrations throughout the year. Take a look at Duplin’s impressive array of festivals and events throughout the year.
September brings the North Carolina Muscadine Harvest Festival, and the popular Grape Stomp at Duplin Winery (505 N. Sycamore Street, Rose Hill, NC 28458). The Harvest Festival is a two-day event celebrating North Carolina’s state fruit. It showcases 25 wineries from around the state and features more than 250 wines, along with regional foods, a cooking contest, musical entertainment and more.
The Duplin Winery’s Grape Stomp will celebrate its 43rd year in 2019. The popular festival celebrates the grape, from vine to wine, and includes vineyard tours, tasting booths and, yes, stomping. Attendees roll up their cuffs and stomp more than 6,000 pounds of muscadines each year.
The North Carolina Poultry Jubilee follows each November at the site of the World’s Largest Frying Pan. Three hundred chickens are fried up during the festival each year. Billed as a celebration of an industry, a people and a way of life, the event includes a wing cook-off, carnival rides and musical entertainment, as well. And finally, North Carolina’s Official Veteran’s Day Parade takes place in the Town of Warsaw. Started 1921, Duplin County is home to “The Oldest Consecutive Veterans Day Celebration in America.” In 2019, the theme will be “Marching Towards 100,” honoring all those who served this great country and all of us who are marching towards the 100th parade in November 2020.
A visit to one of Duplin County’s special events is the perfect way to celebrate and a great way to learn more about this eclectic southeastern North Carolina county. The bounty of its land and spirit of its people is no more evident than in its celebrations. Visitors will find welcoming smiles, an open invitation and a whole lot to celebrate here. Find out more at Uncork Duplin.
Don’t miss the top spots for dining and wine tasting during your visit:
The Country Squire (748 NC HWY 24B /50, Warsaw, NC 28348) This winery, restaurant and inn features old world allure and award-wining wines in a unique and charming atmosphere. Tastings are available daily and the restaurant serves both lunch and dinner.
Duplin Winery (505 N. Sycamore Street, Rose Hill, NC 28458) A trip to Duplin is not complete without a visit to the largest winery in the South. The gift shop and tasting room are only the beginning. Winery tours are offered also and the Bistro is a popular lunch spot for both visitors and locals.
The Tipsy Bee (1752 Lyman Road, Chinquapin, NC 28521) What started as a bakery featuring all-natural ingredients has grown to a two-location business which also includes a winery. What a sweet combination!