The concept of a “staycation” is the heart and soul of Mackinaw Valley Vineyard’s mission. In 1998, when owner Paul Hahn attended a seminar about growing wine grapes in the Midwest, it was the beginning of what 17 years later is now the oldest winery and vineyard in Central Illinois. The month of May 2003 saw the opening to the public of the original wine tasting room. Through the years improvements and additions have been made to the property and buildings meeting the need for increased winemaking and customer spaces to support the concerts, festivals, business and social events and weddings and receptions hosted annually at the vineyard. In January 2015, an extensive remodeling project was completed doubling the tasting room size with a new bar area and hardwood flooring. The Gift Shop space has been enlarged and a new private party room is available to host smaller groups. But with all these upgrades, the “million dollar” panoramic view remains constant. Customers enjoy looking out over the valley in any season; watching the beauty of the changing landscape and sky is relaxing and memorable. Every Saturday, from June through September, there are evening concerts and the four annual festivals will take place again in 2015. A favorite is the International Music, Wine and Craft Beer Festival to be held on May 30 and 31. Other festivals include the Art and Wine Festival on July 26, the Prairie Traveling Vintage Festival on August 9, and the family-friendly Grape Stomp & Harvest Festival on September 6. An excellent wine tasting experience and a variety of fun experiences for guests in a family-friendly atmosphere are priorities for the Hahn family. They invite you to bring your friends and family to enjoy “wine country in your own backyard” at Mackinaw Valley Vineyard.