Description

Raise a Glass to Spring at South Jersey’s Down & Derby Wine Festival Derby style, South Jersey wine, live music, and a full afternoon on the Cooper River return May 2 Spring in South Jersey means it is time once again for one of the region’s most festive waterfront events. On Saturday, May 2, 2026, the Down & Derby Wine Festival returns to Veterans Island at Cooper River Park from 2 to 7 p.m., bringing together South Jersey wineries, live entertainment, food trucks, games, and Derby-inspired fun for an afternoon that blends local flavor with race-day flair. The event is presented by the Camden County Board of Commissioners and Visit South Jersey. 

Now in its fifth year on the Visit South Jersey event page, the festival invites guests to sip, stroll, and celebrate spring along the Cooper River while dressed in their best hats, bow ties, and standout Derby looks. With wine tastings, live performances, great food, and prizes for best dressed attendees, Down & Derby has become a signature seasonal event for residents and visitors alike.  Attendees will be able to enjoy wine tastings from this year’s participating wineries: Amalthea Cellars, Auburn Road Vineyards, Bellview Winery, Cedarvale Winery, Plagido’s Winery, Saddlehill Winery, Sharrott Winery, Summit City Farms & Winery, Tomasello Winery, Valenzano Family Winery, and Villari Vineyard. 

Live music will once again be part of the festival experience, with performances by GoodMan Fiske Band and The Lally Brothers Band. Festivalgoers can also enjoy food trucks, artist vendors, games, and additional surprises throughout the day. 

In true Derby fashion, guests are encouraged to come dressed to impress. From bold spring hats to colorful jackets and bow ties, standout looks will be recognized with prizes during the event, making style just as much a part of the day as the wine and music.