Thursdays in March, four Leelanau Peninsula wineries open their doors to locals with an alternative way to “happy hour.” The Wine Bar Locals Nights are sponsored by Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail and designed to offer locals an opportunity to learn more about the peninsula’s wines and wineries and get to know the owners, winemakers and staff.

“The Wine Bar Locals Night is a traveling happy hour for locals held at a different tasting room each Thursday,” says Lorri Schreiber, Executive Director of the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. “It gives our neighbors an opportunity to explore our local wines through complimentary tastings, $5 featured wine pours and special bottle and case discounts. It’s also a great way to catch up with friends for happy hour in a fun and educational way.

“We are lucky to live in such a gorgeous region that also produces amazing wines,” shares Schreiber. “And, according to USA Today, of course, we have the second-best wine region in North America right here in our own backyard.”

The Wine Bar Locals Nights are Thursdays, 4pm to 6pm at the following wineries:

March 5 - Amoritas Vineyards

March 12 - Rove Estate 

March 19 - Mawby

March 26 - Shady Lane Cellars

Find the full schedule here.

(Photo: Rove Estate, Captured By Grace Photography)