Wine and all that Jazz and More Entertainment this Weekend in Punta Gorda

The oldest historically documented wine festivals can be traced back to the Greek celebrations for their wine god Dionysos. While drinking wine in company has always been the focus of  all wine festivals, this has typically gone along with the enjoyment of regional foods and music. In keeping with this tradition, in Punta Gorda samplings of food and outrageously good jazz have always accompanied the celebration to the wine god.   This year's annual event, the 9th, features returning favorite red-hot saxophone player Mindi Abair as well as Richard Elliott, Norman Brown and Gerald Albright.  All the details can be found at the Chambers' website  so no need to repeat here.  But once the festival ends, you may be seeking other entertainment.  Below are some thoughts for Friday night before the festival, and Saturday afterwards.

Friday, February 21

At Fishermen's Village Center Stage: Patchouli 5-9 p.m.

At Harpoon Harry's: DJ Franco from 9 p.m. 

At Deans South of the Border: American Made 8:30 p.m.

At the Punta Gorda Elks (members and friends): Shake Rattle and Soul 6:30 p.m.

At the Celtic Ray: Celtic Clan 8 p.m. 

At the Orange House: Rory and Doug  (jazz) 7-10 p.m. 

At Pressellers: Leslie LaCosta (jazz) from 5 p.m.

At Hurricane Charley's Gasoline Gorillas 9:00 p.m. 

Saturday, February 22

At Fishermen's Village: Danny Pezzin  5-9 p.m.

At Harpoon Harry's:  DJ Franco  from 9 p.m.

At Deans South of the Border:  10000 Views

At the Punta Gorda Elks: Escape (members and friends) 6:30 p.m.

At the Celtic Ray: Celtic Clan  8 p.m.

At the Orange House: Jazz Trio featuring Joe Delaney  (jazz) 7-10 p.m.

At Pressellers: Doug and George (jazz) from 5 p.m. 

At Hurricane Charley's Not Guilty 9:00 p.m.

Other venues that frequently have music :

Tiki Bar at Four Points  

Wyvern Rooftop

Jacks on Marion

(Please check all entertainment venues and times before going -- musicians and venues have very complex lives that shift frequently)