Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board to showcase French wine and spirits during the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 24, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board invites visitors to explore the best wine regions of France at the first Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts hosted by the Kimmel Center, April 7 – May 1. 

"Philadelphia has a rich and vibrant arts community, which adds a unique flavor to life in this beautiful city," said Patrick J. "PJ" Stapleton, Chairman of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. "We are proud to help celebrate all that Philadelphia has to offer with this unique, month-long event."

The Kimmel Center will be transformed to resemble Paris of the early 20th Century, complete with an 80-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower. Patrons will also be able to enjoy free music, art shows, theater and dance performances as part of the festival.

"France is a powerhouse when it comes to creating some of the best wines in the world," said Stapleton. "Its winemaking history is long and storied and this festival will bring Pennsylvanians some of the best that France has to offer." 

Inside the Kimmel Center, guests can visit the PLCB's on-site store located in the lobby area beginning Friday, April 8. The store, designed to look like an antique train car, will feature approximately 50 different products from across France.

Steve Pollack, the Chairman's Selection™ program buyer, will hold several classes on French wine, on reading a wine label, and will be available to answer questions.

The store will be open Thursdays through Sundays for the duration of the festival.  During the month-long celebration, guests 21 and older are invited to take part in free wine and spirits tastings in the lobby near the on-site store beginning Saturday, April 9. Daily store and tasting hours vary, but a full schedule of events is available at www.finewineandgoodspirits.com. The store will be closed Easter Sunday, April 24.

The Festival of the Arts will culminate with a street fair on April 30, featuring street vendors and performers, musical entertainment throughout the day, a children's area and a giant Ferris wheel.