10 Food and Wine Festivals in The US That Aren’t in California
California has the lion's share of food and wine festivals these days — and that's understandable given the amount of epicurean fare the region produces, especially with the famed wine region of Napa Valley. However, it's time for other amazing food and wine festivals to step into the limelight. The USA is a vast and varied landscape, and each location has its own special offering that deserves to be celebrated. Here is a sample of some of the best food and wine festivals in the US.
Northeast
New York City Wine and Food Festival
This Fall event descends on The Big Apple annually in October. It blends the world's finest culinary talents with the vibrant and bustling backdrop of New York City. Esteemed chefs, sommeliers, and food enthusiasts converge for this celebration, offering a diverse menu of tastings, seminars, and culinary demonstrations.
There's an event to suit every taste, from live music performances and celebrity chef demonstrations from the Blue Moon Burger Bash with host Rachael Ray to cocktail parties, intimate dinners, and walk-around tastings. The event has raised over $14 million in funding for the charity God's Love We Deliver, which provides medically tailored meals and nutritional counseling for those with severe illnesses.
Boston Wine and Food Festival
This event has been going on for over three decades. It's hosted at the iconic Boston Harbor Hotel and spans from January to March. Guests can enjoy an impressive lineup of wine tastings from worldwide wineries, wine-pairing dinners, and educational seminars. Renowned winemakers and sommeliers gather to present a diverse selection of wines, allowing attendees to explore different varietals and regions.
Executive Chef David Daniels currently organizes the festival. The featured artist is Andy Katz, renowned for his vineyard photography. The Boston Wine and Food Festival also includes gourmet dining experiences prepared by talented chefs, creating a harmonious blend of fine cuisine and exquisite wines against the backdrop of the historic Boston waterfront. The dress code is business casual or cocktail attire.
Southeast
South Beach Food and Wine Festival
The South Beach Food and Wine Festival, held annually in Miami Beach, is a culinary extravaganza that celebrates the fusion of gourmet cuisine, celebrity chefs, and picturesque beachside settings. The festival features various events over four days in February, including cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and extravagant parties hosted by renowned chefs and culinary personalities.
Over 65k attendees were recorded visiting in 2023. With over 110 culinary events, guests can relish in the vibrant atmosphere, indulging in delectable dishes and fine wines while basking in the Florida sun. Beyond its gastronomic delights, the festival raises funds for the Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.
New Orleans Wine and Food Experience
Steeped in the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana, the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience takes place every June. The sensory journey embraces the city's distinctive flavors and rhythms. Amid the historic streets and lively music, the festival welcomes foodies and wine connoisseurs to revel in a tapestry of Creole cuisine and exceptional wines.
Renowned chefs craft exquisite dishes while vintners from around the world present their finest offerings. Traditional brass bands infuse the air with melodies, adding to the festive ambiance. This culinary celebration not only tantalizes taste buds but also supports local non-profit organizations such as The Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation and the Delgado Community College Culinary Arts Program, representing the spirit of New Orleans‘ hospitality and cuisine.
Southwest
Image Credit: Robert J. Lerma/EATX.
Austin Food and Wine Festival
The Austin Food and Wine Festival embodies the dynamic culinary spirit of the Texas capital. It celebrated its 10th birthday in 2022 and offers a blend of Southern charm and cosmopolitan flair. This festival lures food lovers to savor a fusion of flavors. Local and nationally acclaimed top chefs share their culinary artistry through interactive tastings, cooking demonstrations, and hands-on workshops.
The festival takes place in November each year, which allows for the temperate Texas weather. Attendees revel in a wide variety of tastes, from regional favorites to international cuisines, while indulging in curated wine and cocktail pairings. Beyond food and drink, the festival's live music and vibrant atmosphere encapsulate Austin's unique cultural vibe, creating an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta
Located in the captivating landscapes of New Mexico, the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta pays homage to the region's rich culinary heritage. This annual event is held at the end of September. It unites world-class wineries and local eateries, inviting participants to explore the nuanced art of wine and food pairing.
With a history spanning more than 30 years, closely intertwined with the development of the wine and hospitality sector and the backdrop of adobe architecture and desert scenery, attendees indulge in tastings, seminars, and gourmet dinners hosted by renowned chefs. The festival seamlessly blends traditional Southwestern flavors with global inspirations, showcasing the versatility of New Mexican cuisine.
West
Food and Wine Classic in Aspen, Co
Aspen may be renowned for its ski resorts and snowy landscapes, but the Food and Wine Classic makes its home here each summer during June. Set in the picturesque Rocky Mountains, the Food and Wine Classic in Aspen, CO, is a prestigious gathering that unites culinary stars and food enthusiasts.
This iconic event celebrates the art of gastronomy, showcasing cutting-edge techniques, wine pairings, and gourmet experiences. It's an opportunity for passionate food and wine lovers to interact and learn from world-renowned experts and elevate their palate amidst the serene beauty of Aspen.
Hawaii Food and Wine Festival
What better excuse to go to Hawaii than to participate in the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival? It captures the essence of the Aloha spirit by intertwining the area's diverse flavors with its natural splendor. This multi-island event celebrates the fusion of Pacific Rim cuisine, featuring globally acclaimed chefs who collaborate to craft unique dishes using local ingredients. The event starts on the main island in October, Oahu in November, and Maui the following Spring.
From traditional Hawaiian fare to innovative culinary creations, attendees embark on a sensory journey that reflects Hawaii's cultural mosaic. Beyond indulging in exquisite meals and wine pairings, the festival supports sustainability and local agriculture, including cooking schools, funding opportunities to train new chefs, aiding small farms, and educating children on cultivating food and meal preparation.
Midwest
Chicago Gourmet
Chicago Gourmet is a premier epicurean celebration in the heart of the Windy City. The festival is held annually in late September. Guests can participate in sommelier sessions, a ‘tacos and tequila' event, a Hamburger Hop, and a special brunch. There is something for every tastebud. Guests can also buy tickets to Prost! In the Park — an Oktoberfest festival on the Harris Theater Rooftop with stunning city views.
With the iconic Millennium Park as its backdrop, the festival harmoniously combines world-class cuisine, fine wines, and the vibrant energy of Chicago. It's a tasteful fusion of food, culture, and innovation, where attendees immerse themselves in a tapestry of flavors and experiences that capture the essence of this culinary capital.
Grand Rapids International Food, Beer, and Wine Festival
Taking place annually in Michigan's November, The Grand Rapids International Food, Beer, and Wine Festival is a vibrant celebration that combines the city's thriving culinary scene with its burgeoning craft beverage industry.
Named as one of the best Fall festivals by Forbes and Best Things Michigan, the culinary experts from prominent local eateries craft and present bite-sized portions of their culinary delights, showcased at the Restaurant Booths. The event features additional stations offering premium cuisine, distinctive products, wine-related accessories, and festive presents. On the Meijer Food Stage, you'll find expert culinary demonstrations and beverage seminars led by industry representatives.
- Expertise: Travel, History, Food
- Education: Monash University, Australia
- Over 400 articles published in newspapers, magazines, and across the web
Ree Winter is a versatile journalist hailing from Australia and now making New Orleans her home. Ree's passion for solo travel shines through as she expertly tracks down fantastic flight deals and accommodations, sharing her extensive travel experiences with readers. With a Master's degree in Journalism and a Bachelor's degree featuring double majors in history and literature, she brings a unique blend of skills to her work. Ree's historical expertise extends to the world of architectural history, where she has worked as a tour guide in historic house museums. But her journey doesn't stop there; she's even delved into the art of coffee as a barista, running a coffee van at events and markets, making her a genuine connoisseur of coffee preparation. Today, Ree channels her insights and expertise into sharing these topics with readers at Wealth of Geeks.