Cleveland Wine Festival

Talk to a winemaker, attend a cooking demo, and kick back with samples of more than 270 wines from around the world at this weekend’s annual Cleveland Wine Festival. “It’s an intimate event,” says Mary Patton, festival spokeswoman. “You can really get access to the winemakers and learn about their wines and ask questions.” Participating Ohio wineries include Debonne Vineyards, Ferrante Winery, and Meier’s Wine Cellars. Morton’s the Steakhouse, Angelo’s Pizza, Das Schnitzel Haus, and Scott’s Fire & Ice Catering will bring the eats, and wine seminars and cooking demos will take place throughout the weekend. More into hops than grapes? Check out the Best of Belgium Café, with four styles of beer available for sampling. It’s all happening in the Voinovich Bicentennial Park at the end of the East Ninth Street pier. Today’s hours are 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturday hours are 3 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $28 in advance and $35 at the door. Check out the website for details.