How to Boost Midweek Traffic: Creative Ways to Fill Your Winery on Slow Days

We all know that weekends at the winery are a no-brainer—people are out and about, looking for fun experiences. But what about those slow weekdays? It can feel like you’re in a lull, relying on a few local regulars or casual drop-ins to keep things moving.

While it might be tempting to simply throw money at ads and expect more foot traffic to your tasting room, the truth is that no amount of marketing can save an uninspired offering. Ads can increase visibility, but if your midweek event doesn’t catch people’s attention or offer something special, your audience won’t show up.

Here are some creative ideas to help fill your tasting room, even on the quietest of days.

Themed Tastings or Wine Flights

Instead of a typical flight, host a Game of Wines night, where different varietals “battle” for supremacy, or throw a Wine & ’90s Nostalgia event, complete with retro snacks and playlists. These fun, unexpected themes can attract a broader crowd—people who may not think of your winery as a midweek destination. Whether it’s pairing wine with pop culture, a Sip & Paint night, or even a dog-friendly tasting for pet lovers, these events offer something unique, giving people a reason to visit and stay engaged with your brand.

You could also run a rotating “midweek special flight” that’s only available Monday through Thursday. Exclusive experiences like this can create urgency and excitement, motivating customers to drop by even when it’s not the weekend.

Happy Hour with a Twist

Happy hour is a classic tactic to lure in a crowd, but why not spice it up with a midweek twist? Instead of traditional drink discounts, you could offer “Winemaker’s Wednesdays” where guests can chat with the winemaker while sipping exclusive releases. Or maybe a “Mystery Bottle Monday” where customers try a mystery wine blindfolded and guess the varietal for a chance to win a bottle.

By incorporating something extra into your happy hour offering, you’re giving people a reason to come out that’s about more than just saving a few bucks.

Wine & Food Pairing Classes

There’s something irresistible about food and wine pairings, and what better way to draw a crowd midweek than by offering a special pairing class? Partner with local chefs or restaurants to create an interactive experience where guests can learn how to pair their favorite wines with complementary dishes. Whether it’s cheese, chocolate, or a full meal, these events encourage engagement and leave a lasting impression.

By focusing on education and experience, you’re offering more than just a glass of wine—you’re offering a chance to learn, taste, and be entertained all at once.

Work-from-the-Winery Perks

More people are working remotely, and they’re often looking for a change of scenery. So why not make your winery a midweek “co-working” spot? Promote your tasting room as a relaxing place to work remotely—offering perks like free Wi-Fi, quiet work areas, and even discounted mid-afternoon wine or coffee for those clocking in from your vineyard.

By offering a comfortable workspace with a unique backdrop, you’re encouraging people to spend more time at your winery. Plus, those afternoon glasses of wine add up!

Pop-Up Experiences and Collaborations

Collaborating with other local businesses is a fantastic way to bring in a new crowd on slower days. Consider hosting pop-up shops at your winery featuring local artisans, or collaborate with a nearby brewery or distillery for a “cross-tasting” event. Customers could enjoy your wines and try products from another local maker, all in one place.

These pop-up experiences not only create buzz but give people a reason to visit your winery when they otherwise wouldn’t.

Exclusive Midweek Wine Club Perks

If your winery has a wine club, use it to your advantage. Offer exclusive midweek perks like complimentary tastings, early access to limited-release wines, or members-only events on weekdays. You’re giving your wine club members an incentive to visit during off-peak times, and the exclusivity makes them feel like VIPs.

Conclusion: Create an Experience Worth Marketing

When it comes to attracting customers midweek, creativity is key. By crafting unique experiences that resonate with your audience, you’re not just inviting people to taste your wines; you’re inviting them to be part of a memorable event.

What really drives success is creating an experience people can’t wait to be a part of—then letting your marketing efforts amplify that offering. In other words, marketing can’t manufacture excitement, but it can spread the word about the exciting things you have in store.

If this post got your creative juices flowing and you need help marketing your mid-week events, get in touch!