The grape harvest is the time of year when ripe grapes are picked from the vineyards and crushed—all together—with the feet before being placed in vats for next year’s vintage. In Quebec, the grape harvest season runs from late summer through mid-October.
And to celebrate, the Eastern Townships—and their famous Wine Route—host a major Grape Harvest Festival every year. This year, the festival spans two weekends: Labor Day weekend, September 5–7, 2026, and the following weekend, September 12–13, 2026.
You can drive there, but you’ll need to stay overnight—or go with someone who won’t be sampling the local wines. You can also take the LIMOCAR bus, which has several routes that stop in downtown Magog.
–
GRAPE HARVEST FESTIVAL
The Magog and Orford Grape Harvest Festival is a little different from European grape harvests, because it is first and foremost a celebration of regional wine tasting, featuring 75 exhibitors—cider makers and winemakers.
The festival admission ticket grants access to the music stages, a glass (to be rinsed after each tasting), and 20 coupons—all good for sampling a local wine. And anyway, how many glasses do you need to drink before you take off your shoes and join in the grape stomp for next year’s vintage?
It’s well worth the trip—the event was named Gastronomic Event of the Year at the Gala de la Gastronomie Québécoise.
–
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Where? At Pointe Merry, in Magog, QC
When? September 5, 6, and 7, 2026 / September 12 and 13, 2026
What? For more info and to buy tickets, click here
STANDARD PACKAGE / $45 for 20 coupons and a tasting glass
–
