PURPOSE
The Lodi Grape Festival and National Wine Show Association, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)5 established to promote agriculture and agricultural products of San Joaquin County and to offer diverse forms of agriculture education. Under a contractual agreement with San Joaquin County, the Association produces the annual Lodi Grape Festival & Harvest Fair and the Lodi Spring Wine Show. In addition the 20-acre fairgrounds is home to many other events ranging form RV Group outings to wedding receptions.
LODI GRAPE FESTIVAL
The Lodi Grape Festival provides an opportunity for many other non-profit groups to raise funds for other community and charitable projects. Since 1937 organizations such as Lions Clubs, 4-H groups, classrooms and youth sports raise money by selling products at the Fair or by entering the wide variety of agricultural related competitive exhibits offered each year. Well over $150,000 is raised annual by non-profit groups as a result of the Fair and more than $30,000 in prize money is awarded to individuals and groups for their exhibits.
LODI SPRING WINE SHOW
Established in 1980, the Lodi Spring Wine Show was the first event of its kind, providing a venue for local wineries to showcase their product all in one location. The Show has evolved over the years to include over 40 wineries, olive oil tasting, food, vendors and entertainment.
BUCKS FOR BOOKS SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In 2003 the Association established the Bucks for Books Scholarship Fund providing funds for college textbook expenses to local deserving youth. Since its inception more than 60 scholarships, or $60,000, has been awarded thanks to fundraising efforts and donations.
As part of the fair system in the State of California, overseen by the California Department of Food and Agriculture Division of Fairs and Expositions, the Association receives no tax dollars for support. Revenues generated from activities on the fairgrounds are used to maintain the grounds and service programs during fair-time and throughout the year.