The biannual tradition that turns a lazy Sunday afternoon into a day of food, wine and live music will once again be presented by Smooth Jazz 98.1 at this weekend’s Wine and Jazz festival, scheduled from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., Sept. 26, at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla Aventine.

The last event held in June attracted more than 500 people, which, according to Promotions Director Kimberly Bianco, included a “good and large percentage from the LGBT community.” The courtyard venue, Bianco adds, “is an open and accepting environment that’s great for mingling, wine tasting and eating. It isn’t a stuffy, highbrow event, but rather a perfect way to spend a relaxing weekend afternoon.”

Eight wineries and three restaurants will participate by handing out unlimited samples until their bottles and bins deplete. “The portions are substantial,” Bianco notes. “Visitors will definitely get enough to eat and drink.”

The wine lineup features a brisk selection of California whites, reds and sparkling varietals poured by Pedroncelli, Cinnabar Winery, Don Debastiani & Sons, Frei Brothers Reserve, Raymond Vineyard & Cellar, Thornton Winery, Churon Winery and J. Lohr Winery. Guests will receive a complimentary wine glass when they arrive.

Adding to the offerings are three restaurants: Barcino Grill, Sophia’s Italian Table and Japengo, which will dole out an array of sushi and Asian-fusion appetizers. Bianco recalls that participating restaurants ran out of food about an hour before the June event concluded. “But there was plenty to be eaten before that happened.”

The outdoor space will also include a main stage, featuring saxophonist Mindi Abair and guitarist Joyce Cooling. “We’re touting the performances as ‘the girls are coming out to play,’” Bianco adds.

Cocktail tables and concert seating will be spread out over the entire courtyard. Admission is $45 per person. Wine and food are served beginning at 2:00 p.m. and the entertainment program starts at 3:00 p.m. For more information, call (619) 297-3698. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online (for will call). Visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com for a link to the website.