Sunshine & Wine, June 21

The Central Washington State Fair has been hosting the Washington State Wine Competition for more than 20 years, and will announce the winners of this year's contest at the annual Sunshine & Wine festival, which begins at 2 p.m. at State Fair Park, 1301 S. Fair Ave.

The event includes food from regional restaurants and chefs, award-winning wines, live music and silent and live auctions.

Tickets cost $75 and include all food and wine. For ticket information, call 248-7160 or visit www.sunshineandwine.com.

Thanksgiving in Wine Country, Nov. 28-30

Why fight the crowds at the mall when you can sip on some of the sweet life during this new holiday tradition?

More than 50 wineries open their doors the weekend after Thanksgiving, offering special tastings, food pairings and other attractions.

Red Wine & Chocolate, Feb. 14-16

It's red wine and chocolate. Need we say more?

Yes, your heart will skip a beat during this Presidents Day weekend celebration in which wineries pair delectable chocolate desserts with their own red wines.

Spring Barrel Tasting, April 2009

Warmer weather and the excitement of tasting new, unfinished vintages -- sometimes straight from the barrel -- have made this event so popular it's been expanded into two weekends of fun that includes everything from smoky barbecues to jazz concerts and winemakers' dinners.

* Of course, these annual events aren't the only happenings at Yakima Valley wineries. To keep updated on what's going on at your favorite place to swirl, sniff and sip, visit www.wineyakimavalley.org or www.rattlesnakehills.com.