Last year’s California Federation Vinska Trgatev zupon, Fred Mlakar, and zuponja, Linda Costell.

FONTANA, Calif. — It’s time for Vinska Trgatev in Southern California! Yes, the Slovenian Grape Harvest Festival is coming to the Slovene Hall in Fontana Sunday afternoon, Nov. 2. If you have attended any of the California Grape Festivals over the past few years, you know that this is a very special event where guests of all ages can interact and have a great time. If you have never attended, you must come this year and enjoy the pageant that begins at 2 p.m.; the sharing of wine, juice, grapes, cheese, crackers and salami; and the opportunity to win one of the beautiful harvest baskets that will be offered.

After the folk songs during the procession of harvesters and villagers, the wise words of the village mayor and his wife, and a few surprises, the Mlakar Bros. Orchestra will entertain through the evening with their traditional polkas and waltzes.

Of course, the highlight of the afternoon for the youngsters and some of the adults is the thievery that goes on during the party. The temptations of the goodies hanging from the arbor are too much for the dancers and children who try to outsmart the gendarmes who guard the precious fruits. Those who are caught must pay the price with jail time or a fine, or sometimes both!

The Slovene Hall is located at 8425 Cypress Ave. in Fontana. Admission is $13 per adult this year. This price covers a donation to the SNPJ Scholarship Fund, a chance to win a harvest basket and other prizes, and the beverages and snacks during the pageant. Children 16 and under will be admitted free of charge. The kitchen will be open for the purchase of traditional dinners, sandwiches and pastries from noon to 5 p.m. Plan to arrive early for the best seats!

For more information, please contact Jean Koci at (949) 495-0097 or e-mail ajkoci@cox.net. We’re looking forward to seeing you there. Na svidenje!