If you’re like many of us, summer isn’t complete without an outdoor concert.  It might be a free concert in the park or a concert at a casino, the fair, an amphitheater, or in this case, at a winery.  From June through September, Chateau Ste. Michelle has a jam-packed schedule.  2012 is bringing us a variety of acts, such as Chris Isaak, Earth Wind & Fire, Blondie and Devo,  Steve Miller Band, Chicago, and more.  Check out the full line-up at http://www.ste-michelle.com/ and click on Events, Summer Concert Calendar, Concert Calendar.  Also, see the Concert FAQ’s.

High back chairs are allowed in the high back chair area (which is open to everyone and yes, there are signs).  It didn’t seem to matter too much as people are standing, dancing, or you are situated so far back that you may not see much detail of the stage anyway.  Parking is available on site for $5 or there is free parking down the street (shuttles are made available).  The concert will go on…rain or shine, so come prepared with the appropriate gear and clothing.

Get there early to get your spot!  The doors open two hours prior to the start of the show (around 5 pm for many of the shows).  On this evening, we went to see Earth Wind & Fire.  They had a comedian on around 7 pm and they did not come out until 8:15 or so.  Even if you bring a picnic and chat with friends, I found that it was a really long wait, especially if you get there early.  Speaking of food…going to Chateau Ste. Michelle for a show allows you the opportunity to go all out!  Many bring a short table or blanket, picnic items, and even full-course meals!  I think it adds to the experience to bring a smorgasbord of options – a sandwich, salad, cheese, crackers, bread, chocolate or whatever suits your fancy.  If that doesn’t work for you, there are a number of options for purchase (fish & chips, pizza, sausages, salad, kabobs, ice cream, and more).  To drink?  water, juices, coffee and of course, Chateau Ste. Michelle wines.  Wine can be purchased in the wine tent as well as the gift/wine shop (open prior to the concert).  They will provide plastic glasses if you didn’t bring your own wine glass.  Someone sitting nearby mentioned that they sell approximately one bottle per person (which means many purchase more than that), which figures out to around 4000 bottles for each concert (depending on the show).  Now that is a profit!  I’m not giving a thumbs up on much of their portfolio, but I can say that I have enjoyed some of their specialty and low production wines  from time to time.  You will also find your own entertainment by watching those around you (some after a bottle or two)… cutting a rug!

If you are interested in more information about Chateau Ste. Michelle, their special events, and more… visit their website or visit Chateau St.e Michelle in Woodinville, WA.  If you visit, you will find that the winery grounds are beautiful, there is a nice gift shop, take a tour for some history and wine making info…you’ll discover more about Chateau Ste. Michelle.   If you have never been to a concert here, it will be hard not to enjoy it!