The third annual St. James Wine & Wings Festival was held Saturday, Nov. 1, drawing a large crowd to celebrate local food, wine, and community spirit. Hosted by Prairie Barn Winery, the event featured live entertainment, food competitions, and participation from several local businesses and organizations.

This year’s festival was supported by sponsors including FCNB Bank, State Farm/Dan Collier’s Rolla Agency, Lance Lewis at Matt Smith Real Estate Group, St. James Chamber of Commerce, St. James Winery Public House Taproom & Restaurant, Blues Hog Barbecue and Grellner Sales & Service.

Competing teams and local establishments included Swafftastic BBQ, Mad Moose & Crew BBQ, Spencer Manor Winery, Country Bob’s Diner LLC, Frisco’s Grill and Pub, St. James Winery and Taproom, Troublemaker BBQ, Meat for Money, The Brothers Dunton, and The Wild Grapes BBQ. 
People’s choice winners were: first place, Bryce with Swafftastic BBQ; second place, Nathan with Wild Grapes; and third Loren with Mad Moose & Crew BBQ. 

Judging for the competition was conducted by Eric, Kelly and Dennis, who sampled a range of wings and dishes prepared by local chefs and pitmasters. Judges choice for first place was Meat for Money and second place was Wild Grapes. There was a four way tie for third place. Volunteers assisting with the event included Gretchen, Fischer, Janice, Greg, Nicole, Ben, David, Ian, Shannon and Dennis.

“The Wine & Wings Festival is a great example of what makes St. James special,” said Brian Tharp event coordinator with Prairie Barn Winery. “It’s about bringing people together to enjoy great food, local wine, and support for our community.”

The Wine & Wings Festival continues to grow each year, showcasing the area’s culinary talent and community involvement. Organizers plan to bring the event back the first Saturday in November 2026.

For more information, contact Prairie Barn Winery at Shannon@prairiebarnwinery.com or 660-253-0079.