Overview: Governor Abigail Spanberger announced Thursday that it was the start of Virginia Wine Month and invited Virginians to support local growers. Concurrently, Parkway Brewing hosted a ribbon cutting event in Downtown Roanoke with a community celebration scheduled for Saturday, October 3.
The Full Story
Governor Abigail Spanberger announced Thursday that it was the start of Virginia Wine Month and invited Virginians to support local growers, winemakers and small businesses that make the industry an important part of local economies. As the Commonwealth celebrates Virginia Wine Month, 2026 has been a challenging year for Virginia’s vineyards. Earlier this year, Gov. Spanberger worked with the USDA to secure a disaster declaration for more than 100 localities across Virginia.
Parkway Brewing meets Downtown Roanoke, hosting a ribbon cutting event Thursday. The free community event will be held Saturday, October 3, at Peaks View Park, with a two-mile walk, resources, entertainment and activities for families. This development marks a significant addition to the local business landscape in Downtown Roanoke and Peaks View Park.
Brand & Industry History
Virginia’s wine industry generates more than $1.7 billion in annual economic impact — supporting vineyards, wineries, and local businesses while fostering Virginia tourism. Across ten distinct wine regions, more than 300 wineries produce wines from over 40 grape varieties and earn national and international recognition. Secretary of Agriculture & Forestry Katie Frazier noted that the industry strengthens rural economies, preserves working agricultural landscapes, and supports an agritourism industry that welcomes visitors from around the world.
What This Means
With growers continuing to contend with the impacts of this spring’s devastating frost and freeze, the road to recovery will take time and continued support. Governor Spanberger stated she was proud to work with federal partners to secure a federal disaster declaration to help family farmers start to recover, and looks forward to continuing to work to ensure Virginia’s vineyards can thrive for years to come.
Consumer Takeaway
Visitors can make the most of the month with Virginia’s free mobile tasting passes, which feature special offers and chances to win throughout October. The Gold Medal Wine Trail leads to award-winning wines from the 2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup Competition. Other passes offer a way to discover women in wine, dog-friendly wineries, Virginia Cider, the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, and Norton, Virginia’s native grape. Visitors can honor Virginia Wine Month by participating in the “Harvest Party” on Saturday, October 17, which invites visitors to experience Virginia Wine at the height of harvest.
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