Tickets for Sunday have sold out and a small number of tickets are still available for Saturday.

Rutherglen Wine and Tourism executive officer Natalie Ajay said about 14,000 people would attend the event and a further 6000 would enjoy the region's attractions at the weekend. 

Participating wineries:

“Most of the wineries are happy as the rain appears to be drying up,” she said. 

“It looks like the weather is going to clear up which is a relief. 

“It's going to be really good fun.”

Ms Ajay said tickets had been expected to sell out on Thursday night or early Friday. 

She said the relaxed atmosphere of the weekend – including the wide variety of costumes on show – created a good atmosphere for people unfamiliar with wine. “It's always been a much more fun and playful event to break down barriers for young consumers,” Ms Ajay said. 

Campbells Wines cellar door and events manager Jane Campbell said the weekend generated repeat customers. 

“It's a great way to showcase the Rutherglen region and its wineries,” she said. 

“It's easily the biggest and busiest weekend for the year. 

“In the last few years we've had really good weather but the lead up has been damp. 

“But it's still looking good for the weekend which is exciting.”

Seventeen wineries will participate in the Walkabout, which was first held in 1974. 

Ms Campbell said the event drew younger crowds. 

“There are plenty of attendees from Melbourne who haven't been here before so it's a good introduction to the area,” she said.