Looking for a getaway on Mother’s Day weekend? Then look no further than the idyllic road trip to the 8th Annual Verde Valley Wine Festival returning to Cottonwood’s Riverfront Park on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. The annual festival, co-sponsored by the Verde Valley Wine Consortium and the City of Cottonwood, will bring wine enthusiasts from near and far to celebrate the best of Arizona’s burgeoning wine industry with 20 local wineries in attendance, local beer, spirits, food from local eateries, shopping with local artisans and live music – all within the charming atmosphere of Riverfront Park (located at 1284 E River Front Rd., Cottonwood, AZ 86326).

The festival organizer, Paula Woolsey, said, “This event is the best way to celebrate Mother’s Day! It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate mothers while enjoying local wines and delicious food. The chance to meet the winemakers adds a personal touch, allowing attendees to learn more about their favorite wines directly from the source.”

Attendees can enjoy the beauty of Riverfront Park while sipping on a glass of wine, dining on great local cuisine, and exploring unique creations from artisan vendors. Plus, live entertainment will add to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect way for families to celebrate and enjoy the day together.

Twenty of the best local wineries within the Verde Valley will be in attendance, pouring their newest releases by glass, bottle and case. They include:

Other libations include Desert Diamond Distillery, and The Belfry Brewery.

To pair with the locally sourced wine, a variety of local fare will be on hand, including a variety of food trucks – such as Campfire Grill, Craft Wood Fired Pizza, The Gravy Train – as well as The Tiny Gourmet, Carolina’s Chocolates, Gia’s Toffee and Positively Frosted. And there will also be a wide variety of local artisans who will be on-site sharing their AZ-made wares

Live music will be on stage throughout the day, including the following:

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.    Mr. Hugh Mungus

1:30 – 3:00 p.m.              Muddy Rabbit

3:30 – 5:30 p.m.              Naughty Bits (headliner)

For further details and updates, visit www.verdevalleywinefestival.com or email verdevalleywinefestival@gmail.com. Don’t miss out on this fantastic celebration of Arizona wine!

Early Bird tickets start at $20/person and include a commemorative wine glass with 6 tasting tickets, which will also be available at the door day-of for $25/person.

For more information on the 8th Annual Verde Valley Wine Festival, visit for tickets and information www.verdevalleywinefestival.com

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