Festival weekend planner
Walla Walla Spring Release Weekend — a 3-day weekend in Walla Walla Valley
First weekend of May. Walla Walla, United States.
The weekend, day by day
- Day 1
Arrive in Walla Walla
Land at Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW), settle in and walk the old town in the afternoon. Light dinner near your accommodation — save your appetite for the festival day.
- Day 2
Walla Walla Spring Release Weekend
Festival day — arrive early to avoid the lunchtime crowd. Pace yourself across the tastings and break for a long lunch mid-afternoon.
- Day 3
Wine country day in Walla Walla Valley
Use the third day for a single winery visit (booked ahead) and a long lunch before heading home.
Where to stay
- Hotels in Walla Walla
Live availability around the festival dates. Festival hotels book out 6+ months ahead, so check early.
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One winery worth a detour
Gramercy Cellars
A Master Sommelier making world-class Syrah from ancient cobblestone soils in a Washington town most wine lovers have never heard of.
- Address
- 635 N 13th Ave, Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA
- Appointment
- by-arrangement
- Tasting price
- USD 25 · Flight of 5 wines
- Website
- Visit
Practical
- Nearest airport
- Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW)
- Festival site
- Visit official site
Insider tip
Skip the crowded downtown tasting rooms on Saturday and head to the Rocks District estates on Friday afternoon—you'll find smaller producer lots like Doubleback and Pepper Bridge with minimal lines. Book a tasting at Leonetti or K Vintners in advance; they sell out by noon.
Want a longer trip than the festival weekend?
The milestone-trip planner builds a 3–10 day Walla Walla Valley itinerary with accommodation, tours, and pacing options.
Plan a Walla Walla Valley trip →