Geneva Area Grape Jamboree

Approximately 1500 acres of grapes are grown in the Geneva, Ohio area.  The grapes are processed into juice, jam, concentrates, or wine.  Specific growing conditions, which exist only in a narrow band from the Lake Erie shore to 10 miles inland, contribute to the success of grape growing in this region.  In the spring, the frozen waters of Lake Erie keep the air in the region colder later into the year.  This prevents the vines from budding out early only to be damaged by a late spring frost.  Although with the unusual spring weather we have had in the last two years a lot of damage has occurred to the grape vines.  In the fall, the now warm waters of the lake help prevent early fall frosts which may damage the grape crop before it can be harvested.  The local grapes, especially the concords, are featured at the annual Geneva Grape JAMboree held the last full weekend of September.  The Jamboree is a celebration of the grape harvest.  Visitors may taste grapes, freshly squeezed grape juice, grape pies, wine and various other grape products.  All grandstand entertainment, including the "grape stomping," is free.  There are two giant parades: Saturday, 1:30pm and Sunday, 2:00 pm.  The art show, craft show, wine tasting, car show, and interesting exhibits make the JAMboree an entertaining, JAM-packed weekend for the entire family.