In the Heart of the Wine Harvest

Long Island, N.Y. The 175-acre Wolffer Estate mixes work and play at its family-friendly harvest celebration (Oct. 7). If you aren't afraid to get your hands dirty, stomp and pick grapes in the vineyard with winemaker Roman Roth and vineyard manager Richard Piscano, and tackle the barrel-rolling contest. Or kick back and listen to live music by the local Jim Turner Band while tasting current releases, older vintages and samples of the fermenting 2007 vintage (if harvest has begun).

Lunchtime brings a Tuscan-style spread (think grilled vegetables, meats and cheeses) and a kid's barbecue. At day's end, a Harvest Queen will be chosen based on her wine smarts and grape-stomping technique. Admission is $65 for adults (ages 12 and older) and $15 for children under 12; 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celebrations: Put on Your Dancing Shoes

Columbia Valley, Wash. The fertile Columbia Valley is one of Washington's largest winegrowing areas, and more than a dozen wineries rejoice in the fall bounty with unique events during the annual Catch the Crush weekend (Sept. 28-30). Expect grape stomping and live jazz at Oakwood, a barbecue, tastings and live music at Terra Blanca and more. Other participants include Columbia Crest, Preston Premium Wines, Goose Ridge and Kiona. Fees vary by event; purchase a VIP ticket ($20 each) for discounts to multiple activities.

Niagara Peninsula, Ontario What started as a tiny street parade 56 years ago has evolved into a 10-day harvest bash drawing around 60,000 revelers each year. More than 100 events will take place at this year's Niagara Wine Festival (Sept. 21-30), including winery tours, wine tastings, seminars and arts and crafts shows. For local culture, check out the Annual Pen Centre Grande Parade featuring floats, steel drum and marching bands and dancers in downtown St. Catharine's (Sept. 29).

To indulge in local food and wine at more than 30 venues along the Niagara Wine Route, order the Chrysler Discovery Pass ($30); participating wineries include Jackson-Triggs, Inniskillin, Magnotta and Pillitteri. Fees, hours and locations vary by event.