If you’ve kept up with the festival scene these last few years, then you’ve most likely heard about one of the most talked about festivals making a huge name for itself, not only in California, but nationwide. BottleRock continues to bring an eclectic group of people from all over to the heart of wine country to enjoy all the amazing things the valley has to offer and a whole lot more. Its a total paradise for anyone that enjoys an amazing lineup and the most delicious food any foodie could ever dream of. And of course, you can absolutely expect wine, spirits and craft beer to be part of the rockstar lineup.
When I tell you that the BottleRock lineup is eclectic and offers music lovers from all spectrums a musical act to look forward to, it’s no joke. It’s known that organizers like to curate their daily lineups to not only accommodate everyone’s interest, but also introduce new up and coming acts to attendees. Personally, I can vouch for this and say that every year I’ve attended, I’ve left being a new fan to multiple acts. This year, the festival returns to its original date, May 27- 29 after having had their last festival take place this past September. Organizers didn’t let any time go to waste when curating this years event. You can really expect this to have a great turn out, much like any other year. This lineup includes some much anticipated performances from Metallica, Pink and Twenty One Pilots to Mount Westmore, Pitbull, Bleachers and CVRCHES.

Photo courtesy of @Bottlerocknapa

Another unique thing this festival features is the Williams Sonoma Culinary Stage, where both celebrity chefs and musicians team up to create culinary magic. This stage has featured Gordon Ramsey, Martha Stewart, Dave Grohl, Finneas and even Snoop Dogg. Its actually probably the only place you can say you saw Snoop Dogg break the record for making the biggest Gin & Juice ever. Really that alone should have you sold on the event.

Much like BottleRock, the Napa Valley is known for its restaurants and amazing wines, but local craft beer and cocktails are quickly joining in. If you want to grab a bite or drink before you head to the festival grounds, you can check out a plethora of great restaurants and taprooms all within walking distance.

Here are just a few popular spots among locals to grab a bite and drink that also offer great ambience, deals and some fun:

Napa Barrel Project: Want to get just far enough from the busy life of downtown Napa, but still be able to enjoy great beers on tap, some delicious pizza and sides? Napa Barrel Project offers just that! This is one of Napas newest spots that has quickly become an escape that everyone can enjoy. They often host events like trivia and comedy nights that tend to draw some pretty big crowds.

Photo courtesy of @napabarrelproject

Barnhouse Napa Brews: You can find Barnhouse just a few doors down from Napa Barrel Project. If you’re someone that still has to fit in some work while you play, this spot is really great for that. With their complimentary high speed wi-fi, grab a coffee, beer or wine along with a bite and enjoy the very cozy vibes this place has to offer while you fit some work in before the fest.

Photo courtesy of @Barnhousenapa

Trade Brewing: Just a quick walk over to the Oxbow area of downtown, you’ll find this local nook tucked right beside the train tracks. Many tourists can easily mistake this spot for a house, but if you walk right in you’ll be surprised to find some great local brews to enjoy on the warm sunny days Memorial Day weekend tends bring. Grab a fresh, tasty beer on tap along with one of their many delicious bites and make your way out to their patio where you can still enjoy the live music from BottleRock from the comfort of the taproom.

Photo courtesy of Audrianna Hernandez @Tradebrewing

Los Agaves: Looking for an amazing refreshing cocktail with some equally delicious Mexican food? Los Agaves (also a new spot) has just the thing to fix that craving. This place is guaranteed to fix any craving you might have before you take on a day at the fest.

Photo courtesy of @Losagavesnapa

La Cheve: This business made its home in the oldest adobe building in Napa (built when California was still Mexico). Serving great local brews, delicious fresh baked Mexican pastries daily along with some equally delicious food, you’ll have a hard time decided exactly what you want, but that’s not horrible problem to have cause you can’t go wrong with whatever you end up getting. Enjoy your meal within a little piece of Napa history in this unique adobe house.

Photo courtesy of @ilovelacheve

For the latest news and info on all things BottleRock visit bottlerocknapavalley.com


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Natalie Baeza

Natalie is a photographer based out of the San Francisco Bay Area.