The Festa da Uva or GrapeFest is a biennial celebration of the Italian heritage and culture in the city of Caxias do Sul, state of Rio Grande do Sul, in southern Brazil. The Festa da Uva is held every even-numbered year in February (i.e. the most recent Festa da Uva was held in February 2008). During the Festa da Uva, the Caxias do Sul pavilions host visitors mainly from South America, but also a few visitors from Europe, however this is very rare. Visitors taste cheese, grapes and various Brazilian wines. The large crowds draw many vendors that rent out booths to show the latest products that the southern gaúcho state has to offer.
The Festa also hosts parades that go through the city nightly. The Festa da Uva is also presided over by one Rainha (Queen) and two Princesas (Princesses) that must compete in a beauty pageant to be voted as such. A queen was first selected for the Festa da Uva in 1933. There was some minor controversy in 2000, when it was discovered that the Rainha (Queen) had been taking turns in the contest & appearances with her twin sister.
Read more about Festa Da Uva: History