Ticket holders could try hundreds of wines.

WORCESTER, Mass. – Taste by taste, hundreds of people are enjoying the Worcester Wine Festival at Polar Park. Pat McAllister says she’s a usual at the event, which has been happening since 2017.

“It’s different to be walking along in the ballpark,” McAllister said. “It’s really great.”

She’s not the only one excited about this year’s location. Local wineries say they’re glad to spend Saturday at the new ballpark. Last year, the event was canceled because of COVID-19.

“It’s amazing, exciting, I was born and raised in Worcester, in Worcester County and farmed all my life here,” John Samek, the owner of Hardwick Vineyard and Winery, said. “To be at the WooSox field and doing a wine tasting is special.”

“We’ve had other festivals, but there’s nothing that compares to being able to be at this one,” Chris Simpson, the founder of Sail to Trail WineWorks, said. 

Ticket holders were able to try hundreds of different types of wine, from more than 80 vendors. Some say the event helps people make connections with Central Massachusetts businesses.

“I think the best part is just hanging out with your friends and really getting to know some of the wine companies that are around here and really getting a taste of what Worcester has to offer,” Jennifer Flanagan said. 

It is support local wineries say is welcome. Especially during a pandemic.

“It’s important you know locals helping locals, more now than ever,” Samek said. 

“It’s been incredibly tough, I think, supporting local wine brands, I think supporting any local businesses right now is enormously important,” Simpson said.

And participants say they aren’t just enjoying the wine, they’re also enjoying Saturday’s nice weather.

“It’s a great day to be out tasting wine,” McAllister said.