7 Reasons to Attend the 2026 Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival This May
Raise your glass to panoramic harbor views—this Memorial Day weekend calls for an unparalleled celebration! The Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival is back May 22-24 for its 21st year and will take place at the beautiful Balboa Bay Resort. This prestigious event gathers people far and wide to explore a vast selection of exceptional wines and artisanal spirits from purveyors like JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and more. Here’s what to look forward to at the 2026 Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival.
A Stunning Setting With Sweeping Bay Views
Possibly one of the most scenic cities in the state, Newport Beach is home to more water than land, making it the perfect place for just about any event. And with Balboa Bay Resort playing host to the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival, guests are in for three days of sun-soaked fun by the bay.
The resort sits on the water’s edge, offering 180-degree views of Newport Harbor and guests can select from 159 guest rooms and suites, each designed with luxe, coastal-inspired touches like Frette linens, espresso wood accents and custom shams. From plush accommodations to the wraparound patio at A+O Restaurant | Bar—serving up sea-to-table fare and craft cocktails—Balboa Bay Resort is the perfect setting for this epic Memorial Day weekend event. Raise your glass as the boats cruise by, and cheers to a weekend well-spent.
JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery Winemaker Dinner (Friday, May 22)
Kick off day one of the Newport Beach Wine Festival 2026 with an intimate, elevated evening at the JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery Winemaker Dinner. This four-course experience hosted at Balboa Bay Resort pairs Executive Chef Diego Bernal’s seasonal, coastal-inspired menu with the bold, balanced wines of JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, known for its standout Bordeaux-style blends from Paso Robles. Guided by Certified Sommelier Jason Santos, each course unfolds like a curated tasting journey—thoughtfully matched to highlight the nuance and character of every pour. Set in the Lighthouse Room with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 sharp, the evening blends refined cuisine, expert storytelling, and just the right amount of Newport polish. This event is easily one of the weekend’s most sought-after reservations.
Grand Tasting (Saturday, May 23)
The main event of the weekend, the Grand Tasting at the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival invites guests to spend a sun-soaked afternoon sipping, sampling and socializing along the waterfront at Balboa Bay Resort. From 1 to 5 p.m., the bayfront transforms into a lively showcase of standout wines, premium spirits and chef-driven bites, all set to the backdrop of live music and coastal energy. It’s equal parts tasting experience and social scene—where you can discover new favorites, revisit cult classics and linger a little longer over each pour. Even better, every ticket supports the Balboa Bay Club Scholarship Fund, helping fund scholarships for graduating students in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District. In other words, your afternoon indulgence gives back in a meaningful way.
“Blanc on the Bay” White Party (Sunday, May 24)
Close out the weekend at the Newport Beach Wine Festival with its most photogenic finale: “Blanc on the Bay,” an all-white daytime party set along the waterfront. From 1 to 4 p.m., the resort’s Bayfront Lawn turns into a sun-drenched scene of DJ beats, flowing cocktails, and light bites. Here, crisp whites (both in your glass and your outfit) set the tone. Expect a lively, upscale crowd, refreshing pours and that signature Newport mix of effortless luxury and energy. It’s the kind of afternoon that starts with “just one drink” and ends with dancing by the water. This chic event will be an easy, stylish send-off to a weekend in Newport Beach well spent.
An Opportunity to Give Back
Beyond the glasses and gourmet, this Newport Beach event offers a meaningful opportunity to give back. Proceeds benefit the Balboa Bay Club Scholarship Fund, a local non-profit organization that’s been changing lives for over 20 years. Known affectionately as the 1221 Club—named after the Club’s iconic Coast Highway address—the fund supports graduating seniors from Newport-Mesa High Schools, helping them cover the rising costs of higher education. With over $2 million raised to date, this initiative is powered by private donations, member support and beloved fundraisers like this one. So come sip, savor and support!
Member and Guest Perks You’ll Love
Balboa Bay Club members and resort guests enjoy special pricing for the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival—just one more reason to celebrate by the bay. Resort guests can call 949.630.4801 with their member number or email [email protected] to reserve tickets.
Want to elevate your weekend? Book the resort’s Suite Arrival package and turn it into a full coastal escape. Enjoy a spacious suite with a fourth night complimentary when you stay a minimum of four nights, plus valet parking for one vehicle. Suite guests also receive exclusive one-day access to South Coast Plaza’s VIP Access Suite.
More Opportunities for Fun in Newport Beach
While the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival promises an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend full of Southern California wine, the fun doesn’t stop there. Newport Beach is a coastal playground with something for everyone—from adventure-seekers to laid-back sun-chasers. Cruise the harbor on an electric boat, watch the legendary wave riders at The Wedge or paddleboard the calm waters of the Back Bay. For a nostalgic twist, ride the historic Ferris wheel at the Balboa Fun Zone or hop on the ferry to Balboa Island for a frozen banana from Sugar ‘n Spice. You can also enjoy some shopping at Lido Marina Village, explore the tide pools in Corona del Mar and watch blue whales breach just offshore. There’s no shortage of ways to make your weekend here unforgettable. Whether you’re here for the wine or staying a little longer, Newport Beach delivers the ultimate coastal experience.
