Powhatan’s Festival of the Grape (It all started when…)

By Nicole Riley, Executive Director, Powhatan Chamber of Commerce:

What began as a creative way to raise funds for the Powhatan Chamber of Commerce has blossomed into one of Virginia’s most beloved community events. The Festival of the Grape now draws thousands of visitors from across the state to celebrate everything Virginia and Powhatan have to offer: local spirits, cider, beer, mead, handmade arts and crafts, delicious food, and lively music. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 4 for this year’s festival, which is held annually in the Historic Powhatan Courthouse Village.

Each year, the festival committee comes together with a shared passion to create an extraordinary experience. Local civic groups volunteer their time, businesses sponsor the event, and community organizations generously provide parking and other resources. The spirit of camaraderie among the committee, the volunteers, and the wider Powhatan community remains the heart and soul of the festival.

Susan Ash, co-founder of the Festival of the Grape, shares:
“I am proud to have contributed in some small way to helping vendors earn income for their families. The festival not only provides funding for the Chamber but, honestly, has contributed to changing Powhatan. I can’t prove that, of course, but I have heard comments and have watched our community grow. Our festival has brought thousands of visitors into a community who may never have entered otherwise. My favorite memory by far is standing in the middle of the festival and watching the people dancing and smiling and being overwhelmed with the feeling that WE gave people this fun time by working so hard. Always a tear or two.”

More than just a celebration, the Festival of the Grape is the Powhatan Chamber of Commerce’s only fundraiser of the year. The proceeds directly support the Chamber’s mission to serve as the voice of local business, offering advocacy, resources, and connections to help our members thrive. The funds enable us to organize networking events, educational workshops, and community programs that foster business growth and strengthen the local economy.

Through this festival, we’re proud to support local businesses by providing opportunities for networking and growth. The event also funds important educational initiatives, including Powhatan High School’s Career and Technical Education programs. Beginning in 2026, we will also launch the Powhatan Chamber Scholarship to help local students pursue higher education and career development.

The festival’s impact extends beyond the grounds, bringing visitors who support Powhatan’s shops and restaurants — boosting the county’s economy and showcasing our vibrant community spirit.

For the latest updates, follow the Powhatan Festival of the Grape Facebook page and visit PowhatanWineFestival.com.

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