It has long been a Labor Day tradition and it is probably the oldest festival in West Central Illinois. The Nauvoo Grape Festival has become a well-known attraction in the tri-state area and brings thousands of sight-seers and tourists to Nauvoo each September. Once again the good people of Nauvoo are gearing up for the 70th annual Grape Festival!
In 1938 several members of the Unity Club (forerunner of the present Chamber of Commerce) thought Nauvoo needed an attraction to lure tourists to our city. It was decided to have a Grape Festival to celebrate the harvest of our grape crop. The Grape Festival has survived through several rainy years and World War II. Today it is even a bigger and better celebration. Many features have been added over the years. One popular event is the Kiddies' Parade held on Saturday afternoon. Of course, the feature parade on Sunday is a big attraction. A large crowd always attends the Festival on Wheels Car Show on Sunday which features over 500 custom autos. Each evening local residents will stage the ever popular pageant, From Quashquema To Nauvoo, highlighted by the traditional Wedding of the Wine and Cheese performed on the Nauvoo Grape Bowl stage. On the Grape Festival grounds in the Nauvoo State Park one can browse through food venders, Arts and Craft booths, and the Rendezvous people dressed in pioneer clothing explaining and demonstrating the 1840's way of life. Of course as further entertainment there is the Teen tent with music and dancing and for the adults, the Entertainment Tent (a.k.a. The Beer Tent).
Nauvoo Grape Festival Association
PO Box 441
Nauvoo, IL 62354
(217) 453-6648