Following an established tradition already, this year in the capital of the tiny wine-loving country in Eastern Europe the traditional “Wine Day” celebration was held. Yes, there are countries in the world that have a wine day!

Although not so kind on the weather this morning, a little bit chilly and cloudy, the celebration started with an official opening ceremony where all the high-grade officials including the communist president and his puppet prime-minister were present. There was no fun to listen these guys talking, but the dancing and drinking part was. Should I also mention that across the country there are several venues where public manifestations are organized and the main party is held in the main square of the capital city right in front of the government building. The square is filled with booths from various wineries from across the country eager to present their wines to the public.

Straight after announcing the opening the barrels with fine wine presented by the best wineries were opened and the wine started pouring. Everyone present in the country’s main square was offered a glass of wine for free and more if you’re fast drinker! Professional dancers were swirling around in a dance inviting everyone to join and after a glass or two everybody including the officials joined the crowd of dancers in a big hora (traditional dance). Fine fresh wine, Beaujolais as the French call it, dancers in traditional costumes, rhythmic vibes of Moldavian folk music - no wonder you cannot stand still. Even the sun has shown from the clouds to join the party.

Moldavians are very proud of their wines and there are reasons for that, just trust me on this one. If you haven’t tried any wines from Moldova yet, it’s maybe the time to do so, if you get lucky of course. Moldavian wines are like a hidden gem, you have to find them first and then enjoy and wonder how come you missed that.

A few foreigners usually come to this festival, but year by year their presence becomes more noticeable. Last year during the festival the foreign tourists could entry the country by getting a free visa if the purpose of their visit was the wine festival. And with new visa regulations now Europeans, Americans and a few other nations do not need any visa anymore. So there a high chances that this festival will get a more international look in the near future. And it looks like this year is no exception, I’ve seen a lot of foreigners, mostly Europeans on the streets today just enjoying the big party.

The atmosphere is getting a little bit different towards the evening when the crowds are changing and more youths are coming. The main stage is now playing live concerts with local and international stars. The whole area is getiing overly crowded and there are few chances you’ll find any empty sits at the specially arranged snack kiosks or at the winery’s booths. Chances are, by that time the stocks of wine brought will end up at some winery houses too.

Anyway, just consider there’s a wine festival you can attend in the early October if you’re looking for fun and fine wines. Or, if you already planning a trip to Moldova, make sure you’re planning it so you’re not missing this amazing event!