Wine Down Summer returns August 29 and 30, 2026, bringing two days of award-winning New Jersey wines, live music, food trucks, local artisans, and summer fun to the picturesque Veterans Island at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, New Jersey. While the venue may be new, the tradition continues. After more than a decade of welcoming thousands of guests to celebrate New Jersey’s finest wineries, great food, and live entertainment at RiverWinds, and most recently at Red Bank Battlefield Park, this beloved festival is entering an exciting new chapter. Wine Down Summer is making a short move to its new home at Veterans Island, just a quick drive from last year’s location where festivalgoers can enjoy the same unforgettable experience they know and love, now set against the beautiful waterfront backdrop of Cooper River Park.
Held from 12 noon to 5:00 PM each day, this beloved end-of-summer celebration invites guests to relax along one of South Jersey’s most beautiful waterfront destinations. Veterans Island offers a park-like setting perfect for a day of wine tasting and outdoor enjoyment. With shady trees, scenic walking paths, open lawns, and panoramic waterfront views, the venue creates a peaceful escape while remaining conveniently located in the heart of Pennsauken.
Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and pop-up tents to create their own comfortable gathering space for the day. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine by the water, listening to live music, dining from one of the many food trucks, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery, Wine Down Summer delivers the ultimate summer festival experience.
The heart of the festival is New Jersey’s thriving wine industry. Guests 21 and older can sample a wide variety of locally produced wines, from crisp whites and refreshing rosés to bold reds, and seasonal favorites. Paid admission to sample includes a souvenir wine glass for sampling, and attendees can purchase bottles to take home or enjoy during the event.
Beyond the wineries, Wine Down Summer features a diverse lineup of live music throughout the weekend, creating a lively atmosphere across the park. Festival-goers can explore a curated selection of artisan crafters offering handmade jewelry, home décor, specialty foods, artwork, and unique gifts. A variety of food trucks will be serving everything from savory favorites to sweet treats, ensuring there’s something for every appetite.
Participating Wineries Include: Angelico Winery, Chestnut Run Farm, DiMatteo Vineyards, Kennedy Cellars, Plagido’s Winery, Terra Nonno Winery, The Vintner’s Wife, Valenzano Winery, Villari Vineyard, Wagonhouse Winery, and White Horse Winery
Live Music: Right Turn at 40 on Saturday and Naughty Humphrey on Sunday.
Food Trucks:
Carolina Blue – Serving up authentic Southern comfort food with slow-smoked BBQ, savory sides, and down-home flavors that satisfy every craving.
Craw Daddy Cajun – Bringing the bold tastes of Louisiana to the festival with Cajun favorites packed with spice, flavor, and Southern charm.
Dan’s Waffles – Offering freshly made sweet and savory waffle creations that are perfect for a delicious festival treat.
Maui Ice – Cooling things down with refreshing Hawaiian-style shaved ice available in a variety of tropical flavors.
Ms Fu’s Yummy Food Truck – Serving flavorful Asian-inspired dishes made fresh and packed with delicious tastes that keep guests coming back for more.

Artisan Vendors:
Amber Glow Bees – Local honey, beeswax goods, and gifts.
Art Of Olive Oil – Gourmet olive oils and specialty foods.
B Baths – Handmade bath, body, and spa products.
Carolyn Smith –jewelry featuring Swarovski crystals and natural stones.
Colours of Raine – Colorful hand painted glassware and more.
Cynful Bliss – Indulgent alcohol-infused desserts.
Enchanted Crusts – Artisan breads, baked goods, and snacks.
Finmoney Charms – Handmade jewelry, charms, and accessories.
Gracie Moo Candles – Hand-poured candles with delightful fragrances.
Half a Chance Creations – Handmade wood crafted products and houseware.
Hangover Pretzel Co – Gourmet pretzels and savory snacks.
House Of Cork – Wine-inspired gifts, décor, and accessories.
Island Talk USA – Island-inspired products, hats, and apparel.
Jerky James – Premium handcrafted jerky with bold flavors.
Keystone Cheese Farm – Farm-fresh cheeses and dairy specialties.
Mimi’s by the Sea Gourmet Mixes – Gourmet dip, soup, and mixes.
Wind and Waves Creations (Sunday Only) – Coastal-inspired handmade jewelry.

One of the event’s most popular features is that spectators and non-sampling guests 21+ are just a $5 admission and guests under 21 are admitted FREE, making Wine Down Summer a perfect outing for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a beautiful summer day outdoors.
Whether you’re discovering a new favorite winery, shopping local artisans, dancing to live music, or simply unwinding by the water, Wine Down Summer is the perfect way to toast the final days of summer in Jersey.
*Note: Vendors, food trucks, and wineries are subject to change.
Event: Wine Down Summer
August 29 & 30, 2026
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Daily
Veterans Island at Cooper River Park Pennsauken, NJ

Tickets:
Sampler Admission (21+) Includes souvenir wine glass, wine sampling, and wine sales from participating New Jersey wineries.
• $20 in advance | $25 day of (Cash Only)

Spectators and non-sampling patrons 21+: $5 day of (cash only)
Guests under 21: FREE