BY: RACHEL WUMKES

Round up your girlfriends… and I supposed the guys can come too… because Harvest Festival is only 6 weeks away!

Such a great day in Clear Lake, this event truly encapsulates the many wonderful aspects of our beautiful town.  Strolling along the downtown streets, the sweet sound of various bands wafting into your eardrums, the crisp fall air on your face, and a wine glass in your hand.  It really is a slice of Heaven.

Now, as past years have taught us, the weather can often be fickle in early October.  I’ve been to Harvest Fest bundled up in a winter coat, hat and gloves.  I’ve been to Harvest Fest in a short sleeved shirt with sunglasses on.  I’ve also been to Harvest Fest under an umbrella, rain boots covering my feet as we trudge through the sloppy, wet streets.

It’s a crap-shoot, really!

But one thing we know for sure… there will be lots of food, lots of shopping, lots of wine tasting stations, and lots of FUN.  And don’t forget the homemade salsa contest, grape stomp and pumpkin roll relay.  Seriously, talk about a day full of fall fun!  As always, the 4 block vendor fair will be a bustle of activity for shoppers.  But make sure to pop in to our local shops as well, many of them have specials galore during Harvest Fest.

For example, my girls and I start our day with a Bloody Mary at the VFW every year.  It’s tradition, and they are super delicious!

For you active folks, y’all can start your day with a run.  Or walk, if you prefer.  Raise your pinky, it’s time to toast the 15th Annual Harvest Festival with the 2nd Annual Champagne 5K run/walk!  Kick off your Harvest Festival day with this fun morning run along South Shore, cross a finish line of tiny bubbles, and sip on some bubbly.  $25 Registration includes a Champagne 5K t-shirt, 15th Anniversary Champagne glass, and complimentary champagne at the turnaround & finish line.

NOTE *Register by September 16th to be guaranteed a t-shirt.
AND ALSO**The Champagne 5K is open to runners of all ages, but you must be 21+ to enjoy the bubbly. Under 21 will receive a tumbler and Gatorade.

Be sure to grab your bags in advance.  Harvest Festival souvenir bags include a fancy glass, a special surprise 15th anniversary bonus gift, treats from Cookies ETC and Cabin Coffee, and a coupon packet.

OR, you can choose to totally live your best life that day and go for the VIP festivities.  For the ultimate wine experience, you will receive everything with the Harvest Festival Tasting bag (souvenir glass, bonus surprise anniversary gift, treats from Cookies ETC and Cabin Coffee, and a coupon packet) PLUS a beautiful reusable wine bag, a bottle of wine, a private VIP wine tasting location, hors d’oeuvres, secure coat/bag check, live music, and more!

Sign.  Me.  Up.

Don’t delay – there are only 1000 Souvenir Bags and 100 VIP bags available.  Oh, and did I mention a few random bags will contain some AMAZING stuff?  Air Choice One tickets, $500 in Chamber bucks, incredible gift basket prizes.  You can’t win if you don’t have a bag!

Below are all the links you need to have the ultimate girl’s day in beautiful downtown Clear Lake.  So round ‘em up and get planning!  You do not want to miss this day of fun.

Get your standard or VIP Harvest Festival Tickets HERE.

Register HERE for the Champagne 5K.

Be sure to let everyone know you’re “going” to this event on Facebook. ß click that link!

Pre-Register for the Salsa Content HERE.