Batavia adds wine tasting to expanded Holiday Lantern Walk

Twelve one-ounce wine pours are the centerpiece of a new $25 experience launching at Batavia’s Holiday Lantern Walk on Nov. 13. The event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, adding an hour to the previous schedule and moving the celebration to the evening. Adults aged 21 and older can purchase tickets to sample wine at participating downtown businesses while shopping.

Kristen Desler, assistant director of Batavia MainStreet, said the shift to Friday evening allows residents more time to explore the district. She noted that illuminated lanterns will guide visitors between stores, creating a candlelight atmosphere. A holiday trolley will transport guests from one side of downtown to the other, or back to their vehicles at the end of the night.

More than 30 local businesses will remain open late for the free event. The extended hours give shoppers additional time to browse festive decorations and holiday gifts. The walk encourages visitors to explore the downtown area from east to west on foot or by trolley.

Participating shops include CaberNeigh, which sells equestrian-themed home goods and consignment items. Kitty Cocoa Cafe, the city’s first cat cafe, will also be open. The Batavia Boardwalk Shops remain open through Dec. 20, while Warehouse 55 offers over 8,000 square feet of vintage finds and curated holiday decor. Ease Escape will provide beauty products and facial experiences.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will distribute Downtown Dollars and pose for free photos with attendees. The event serves as the official kickoff to the holiday season in the city. Visitors can find event maps and ticket links on the downtownbatavia.com website or the @downtownbatavia Instagram account.

The wine experience includes an event map to help guests navigate the participating locations. Tickets are available for purchase now. The combination of shopping, wine tasting, and seasonal lighting aims to draw visitors to the downtown corridor during the expanded evening hours.