Harvest time in Mendoza, Argentina, is a magical period that transforms the region into a vibrant celebration of its wine-making heritage.
Held annually in early March, the National Grape Harvest Festival (Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia) is the pinnacle of this season, honouring the hard work of vineyard laborers, the region’s rich wine culture, and its deep-rooted traditions. This festival is one of the most anticipated events in Argentina, drawing locals and tourists alike to partake in its festivities.
The celebrations begin with the ‘Vía Blanca de las Reinas’, a dazzling nighttime parade held on Friday evening. Floats adorned with intricate designs, illuminated by thousands of lights, glide through the streets of Mendoza, accompanied by music and dance. Each float represents a different department of the province (there are a total 18 of these sub-districts in Mendoza province), showcasing its unique identity and cultural pride. The queens of each department , elegantly dressed, wave to the crowds, symbolizing the beauty and spirit of the region.
The following morning, the ‘Carrusel de las Reinas’ takes center stage. This second parade is a daytime spectacle filled with vibrant colors, traditional folk music, and lively dances. Elaborate floats decorated with grapes and regional motifs highlight the importance of viticulture to Mendoza’s identity. The parade is a joyful expression of gratitude for the harvest and a celebration of the region’s wine-making legacy.
The festivities culminate in the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia, a grand theatrical performance held in the Greek-style Frank Romero Day amphitheater. This event features stunning choreography, live music, and a symbolic blessing of the harvest, culminating in the crowning of the National Harvest Queen. It is a deeply emotional and cultural experience that unites the community.
As these timeless traditions unfold across our sun-drenched province, you’re invited to become part of this extraordinary celebration. Whether enjoying our wine tours to the Uco Valley or Luján de Cuyo, or, in particular, experiencing the magic firsthand from our privileged location in the heart of Mendoza, where the parade’s vibrant energy meets the sophistication of fine dining.
Join us for an exclusive Vendimia Brunch, where local flavors, premium wines, and front-row views of the Carrusel create memories that will linger long after the last float passes by. After all, some celebrations are best savoured from above, with a glass of Mendoza’s finest in hand.
Experience the magic of Vendimia like a true insider!
Check our Vendimia Brunch at: https://www.mendozawinetours.com/tour/vendimia-brunch/
Cheers!
A Season of Celebration and Transformation
As Mendoza’s wineries prepare for the imminent harvest, they are on the doorstep of an upcoming transformation. The meticulous preparations, the thrill of the first grapes arriving at the winery, and the culmination of a year’s hard work all come together in this extraordinary season.
For those fortunate enough to visit, it is an unparalleled opportunity to witness winemaking in its most raw and dynamic form. Through the lens of Ampora Wine Tours, visitors don’t just taste the wines of Mendoza—they live its story, experiencing the dedication and craftsmanship that shape every vintage.
The calm before the storm is an ephemeral moment, but within it lies the promise of a new vintage—one that will capture the spirit, tradition, and excellence of Mendoza’s winemaking heritage. And when the first bottles of this new vintage are finally uncorked, they will hold within them the memories of a season where nature, passion, and precision converged to create something truly remarkable.
