Propelled by popular demand and comfortable spring weather, the latest iteration of “Uncorked” drew a large crowd to downtown Highland Park with wine glasses and maps of different businesses in hand.
An estimated group of 80 people took part in the recent wine stroll, which organizers with the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce said they decided to bring back this spring following the success of last year’s inaugural “Uncorked” event.
“This is my first time doing the wine stroll and I am so impressed,” said Highland Park resident Ilyse Strongin. “I think it’s great how they’re cross-promoting local businesses.”
Ginny Glasner, president and CEO of the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce, said she was thrilled to see the weather cooperate for the May 16 event, which is proving to be popular among participants and local businesses.
For the latest Uncorked event, 15 businesses participated in the three-hour stroll. Ticketholders held gift bags while visiting the downtown businesses to sample different wines and try gourmet bites.
At each stop along the stroll, hors d’oeuvres were served to complement the type of wine sample being served. For example, Sweet Home Gelato in Highland Park paired gelato samplings with Italian and French wines.
“The businesses were really happy about this when we had the wine stroll for the first time,” Glasner said, adding, “It shows the support of the people coming into our community.”
The first destination for many attendees was The Art Center Highland Park. James Lynch, executive director of the center, made sure to greet participants on the steps of the main entrance to the center.
“We’re active members of the chamber of commerce. They’re very friendly to us, and we’re very friendly to them,” Lynch said. “For us, it’s just getting people into the door, seeing what we’re doing.”
Sherry Levin, co-owner of Style Shack in downtown Highland Park, said she likes to participate in the event to meet with potential customers and show them her hospitality and lifestyle business.
“We’re able to introduce our lifestyle boutique to people who have never been here before,” Levin said.
Karie Angell Luc is a freelance photographer and reporter for Pioneer Press.
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