Over the past 20 years, numerous local farmers have moved into the winemaking industry and the Shine to Wine: Wine, Beer, Spirit & Art Festival gives local brewers, distillers, and producers a chance to display and publicize their craft. The festival also traces the historical development of Wilkes County liquor from moonshine to wine. The 'Shine to Wine festival is now held on the third Saturday in September. This year's event will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2016 from 1:00-7:00pm. The annual Shine to Wine Festival is held in historic downtown North Wilkesboro at the Yadkin Valley Marketplace and features live entertainment, art, merchandise, wine, and food. The Shine to Wine Festival has expanded to offer craft beer from local and regional breweries, in addition to spirits from regional distilleries! General admission is FREE, and wine/beer/spirit tastings are only $25 at the gate! ($20 in advance). Tasting tickets allow the purchasor to sample wines, beers, and spirits.