By Lesly Martin
AAI Publicist
Idyllwild is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual events — the 17th-annual Art Walk and Wine Tasting from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. Organized by the Art Alliance of Idyllwild and sponsored by Middle Ridge Winery, the fundraising event this year features 20 Southern California wineries and special exhibitions in the town’s art galleries.
Tickets are now on sale for $25 per person and include a commemorative wine glass; cheese, crackers and fruit at each gallery; and tastings of some of the best vintages at tasting stations throughout town. Tickets purchased through AAI’s website prior to the event offer group and member discounts. Guests may also purchase tickets at many of Idyllwild’s art galleries and at AAI’s booth in front of Idyllwild Realty (across from the Rustic Theatre) starting at 11 a.m. the day of the event.
“This is our organization’s largest fundraising event of the year,” explained Gary Kuscher, president of the non-profit group. “Net proceeds provide AAI’s annual operating funds and enable us to arrange special events for local artists to display and sell their work throughout the year, donate funds to other community organizations, and support local art education for Idyllwild young people.”
Some of the participating wineries include event sponsor Middle Ridge Winery, as well as Baily Vineyard and Winery, Renzoni Winery, Hart Family Winery and La Serenissima Winery. Featured venues include Idyllwild’s 2nd Saturday Art Fair at the Idyllwild Community Park, The Spruce Moose, Artspresso Gallery, Acorn Gallery and several others.
“We encourage visitors to stay overnight and sample our many restaurants and inns before making their way down the mountain roads,” Kuscher concluded.
For a full list of wineries, tasting locations, participating inns, and to purchase advance tickets, visit www.artinidyllwild.org or call 1-877-439-5278.
