Novato's 28th Annual Festival of Art, Wine & Music

As Marin County street festivals go, nothing beats Novato’s 28th Annual Festival of Art, Wine & Music. This year, it is the largest two-day event this summer, with 80,000 festival goers on hand. Some folks come to the Festival for the wine. Others come for the art. Fans come for the music and yet everyone who attends connects to old friends, snacks on Americana fare, finds creative arts to take home, samples Napa and Sonoma wines or local brews and stays for the music. The free festival is Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 12, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featured are 200 artisans, food vendors, a premium wine garden, kids’ area and music on two stages. Presented by the Novato Chamber of Commerce with generous business sponsors, the event sets up along Grant Avenue, between Redwood Boulevard and Seventh Street.  The green emphasis continues with recycling containers provided and sorted by the Conservation Corps North Bay, and courtesy bike valet parking by Sustainable Novato, located near the main stage. More than 35 vintners are pouring their varietals. The purchase of a commemorative wine or beer glass for $6 is required for the alcoholic beverages. Wells Fargo is this year’s glass sponsor. The Smiling Turtle Kiddie Park, sponsored by Novato Pediatric Dentistry, includes children’s activities, from train rides, art projects, climbing wall and a petting zoo to a dunk tank and jumbo slides. It’s tucked right next to old Pini Hardware, near the mainstage. Some attractions require ticket purchases.

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• Festival Highlights:

• Features: Families, Free, Kids, Open to All, Outdoor, Seniors, Teens, Volunteer