On Feb. 24, the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association (IGGVA) will host the 2017 Winter Wine Festival in Springfi eld. The festival, organized in coordination with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, coincides with the IGGVA’s annual conference, and is open to the public. With over 15 wineries across the state participating in the festival, guests are given a rare chance to experiment different foods and wine pairings. Held at the Crowne Plaza from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., the festival will provide entertainment by the Naughty and Nice Band, a complimentary wine glass, hors d’oeuvres, dancing and auction items for bid. Tickets purchased in advance are $20 per person. Each ticket will include seven tasting tickets, with additional tasting tickets available for one dollar per ticket. For those who pay at the door, tickets are $25, included with fi ve tasting tickets. Illinois vintners will offer a oneounce sample of wine for each tasting ticket. Wineries will also sell their wine by the glass, bottle and case. To reserve seats, call the Crowne Plaza’s offi ce at 529-7777 and reference the Illinois Grape Growers block. For tickets or more information for the festival, call 762-8518, or visit the IGGVA’s website at https:// illinoiswine.com/events/.