Annual wine festival plan for Sept. 17.

SIKESTON - Local residents can find plenty of wine and hors d'oeuvres at the Seventh Annual Historic Downtown Sikeston Wine Festival. The festival is from 6-10 p.m. Sept. 17 located at 100 Block Center St. in Historic Downtown Sikeston.

Dazzled by the lights and immersed in live music, over 800 people last year experienced the "local getaway," sampling food and, of course, the region's finest wine.

"It's a great event because it makes it feel like they're in a vacation spot in the city," said Lynn Lancaster, Historic Downtown Sikeston director.

The president of the wine committee of HDS, Charlette Vanover, compared it having a "big city" atmosphere. To make the experience even more enjoyable, proceeds will benefit Historic Downtown Sikeston revitalization projects. HDS is currently raising funds to install an at-grade water fountain in the American Legion Park.

Lancaster said much hasn't changed since last year's festival, but one thing that has is the festival logo. Attendees will see a new design on their souvenir wine glass; and wine enthusiasts can fill their glasses with wines from Hemman Winery, The Barrens Winery, The Boat House Wine Co., River Ridge Winery, Jeremiah's and Vance Vineyards and Winery.

Food will be catered by Susie's Bake Shop and Restaurant, and food will be donated from Colton's Steakhouse, Red Lobster and Buffalo Wild Wings.

Folks that like "a little bit of country and old time rock 'n' roll," according to Lancaster can enjoy live music performed by Platinum Strings, which performs music from artists like The Eagles, Rod Stewart, Bob Seger and more.

Tickets are $20 per person of legal drinking age and the event will event will be held "rain or shine." According to Lancaster, they are the process of making provisions in case of rain. Those interested can buy tickets at the gate or call 573-380-3801.