On Grape Day, the State Farmers Market will toast the local wine and grape industry with free tastings of muscadine and European-style wines. Visitors also will be able to sample and rate locally grown grapes and try a muscadine smoothie during the event.

In addition, farmers will have a selection of seasonal muscadine grapes available for purchase. Shoppers also can find a variety of N.C. wines and grape products, available throughout the year, in the Market Shoppes.

Friday, Sept. 9
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Farmers Building and Market Shoppes, State Farmers Market
1201 Agriculture St.
Interstate 40, exit 297, Lake Wheeler Road

Grape Day is sponsored by the N.C. Wine & Grape Council, N.C. Muscadine Association and the State Farmers Market.

In 2009, North Carolina produced 4,800 tons of grapes, making it the 10th largest producer in the country. With more than 100 wineries, the state is the nation’s ninth-largest wine producer. The annual economic impact of the North Carolina wine and grape industry is estimated to be $813 million.

For more information about Grape Day and other events at the State Farmers Market, go to www.ncagr.com/markets/facilities/markets/raleigh/index.htm.