Calendar of Food and Wine Festivals in Florida

Food and wine. Pairing food and wine (and beer) is an art. And doing so in the Sunshine State is an art unto itself – with choices in glorious abundance. Here are some of the major food and wine events scheduled in the Sunshine State, by region and month. 

South Florida | Central Florida | North Florida
 

SOUTH FLORIDA

JANUARY

FORT MYERS SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL – The title says “seafood” and you’ll get an abundance of that, but meat dishes and vegetarian fare will also be served at this three-day event. While enjoying your food, listen to live musical performances by some of Florida’s and the region’s top musical talents in such genres as R&B, jazz, rock, reggae and Caribbean sounds.
Where: On the waterfront in Fort Myers
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

VISIT LAUDERDALE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL – This fest has expanded to highlight all of Broward County with more than 25 events during festival week. Events include “Culinary Experiences for Everyone Under the Sun” with Signature Events such as The Grand Tasting and Poolside BBQ Battle, to intimate chef-driven dining experiences and culinary classes/seminars.
Where: Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood
Web: vlfoodwine.com/

ENGLEWOOD SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL - Feast on fresh seafood and other fare and groove to live music by some of the region’s top talents. Also, explore a marketplace offering arts, crafts, gourmet food items and specialty products.
Where: Englewood
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

NAPLES WINTER WINE FESTIVAL – Learn about wine bouquets, finishes and feels from Master Sommeliers (there are only about 200 in the world) in this three-day lineup of a luncheon, an auction, a dinner prepared by some of the world’s greatest chefs and a brunch finale.
Where: Naples
Web: napleswinefestival.com/

PORT ST. LUCIE SEAFOOD FESTIVAL - This two-day family and pet-friendly festival has now become the largest and most popular seafood festival on the Treasure Coast.
Where: Port St. Lucie
Web: portsaintlucieseafoodfestival.com/

KEY WEST FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL – Those who have an appreciation for the finer culinary things in life will find plenty to enjoy in this week-long series of events all over town, such as a sunset wine tasting, a trolley tour of Key West’s most beautiful kitchens, a whiskey primer, a shrimp boil, a poolside happy hour with appetizers, a salt and honey tasting and other creative food and drink parties.
Where: Various locations in Key West
Web: keywestfoodandwinefestival.com

FLORIDA KEYS SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – This fest celebrates the Key West community by bringing families and friends together in a joyful and fun environment to sample the local catch. This family-friendly event was created to showcase local seafood and the Keys’ commercial fishing industry by providing the freshest seafood available. Fishermen and women are proud to offer the community and visitors a variety of seafood at reasonable prices.
Where: Key West
Web: floridakeysseafoodfestival.com

STONE CRAB & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – This celebration of the South Florida seafood industry will feature some of Fort Lauderdale’s favorite seafood restaurants as they serve up an array of fresh seafood dishes. Seafood lovers of all ages are welcome to come out rain or shine and enjoy a day of great food, cold drinks, a beer garden, music and more, including the crowd-favorite hermit crab races.
Where: Fort Lauderdale
Web: goriverwalk.com/events/ 

SEED FOOD & WINE WEEK – This gathering doesn’t like to be called a festival. The organizers like to think of it as a movement and a community of passionate people committed to elevating the conversation around plant-based foods, sustainability and the welfare of animals. There will be some 200 exhibitors, about 40 plant-based chefs and 30 or so vegan experts, athletes, authors and celebrities.
Where: Miami and Miami Beach
Web: seedfoodandwine.com

FEBRUARY

SOUTH FLORIDA GARLIC FEST – It’s called “The Best Stinkin’ Party in Town” and with good reason. This popular food and entertainment event features national act entertainment, a gourmet alley food area with more than 100 garlic-laced menu items (including garlic ice cream!), a large children’s amusement area with rides, arts and craft vendors, a garlic cooking competition, the Cloves & Vines Wine Garden and full liquor bars -- all in celebration of the bulbous herb. 
Where: Lake Worth
Web: garlicfestfl.com

PUNTA GORDA SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL -- Seafood dishes are prepared using indigenous and sustainable seafood from Florida's coastal waters. Plenty of meat dishes and vegetarian food will be served, too. You’ll enjoy a host of fine musicians in the genres of rock, jazz, reggae, R&B and Caribbean sounds.
Where: Punta Gorda
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL – The Food Network and Cooking Channel team up with Food & Wine Magazine for a star-studded event sure to please even the most amateur or sophisticated foodie. Included will be intimate dinners, chef demos, walk-around tastings and late-night parties. Events in Broward County have now been added as part of the CRAVE Greater Fort Lauderdale series.
Where: Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale
Web: sobefest.com

LABELLE SWAMP CABBAGE FESTIVAL -- Sample dishes made with swamp cabbage (also known as hearts of palm), which comes from the state tree, the sabal or cabbage palm. The event includes a parade, motorcycle & car shows, entertainment, a carnival, a 5-K run, a bass tournament, a rodeo, and the "Grasscar" lawnmower race.
Where: LaBelle
Web: labelleswampcabbagefestival.org

JUPITER SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – Two days of local fresh seafood, a cornhole tournament, live entertainment, nautical vendors, live entertainment and family-oriented rides.
Where: Jupiter
Web: Jupiterseafoodfestival.net

EVERGLADES CITY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL -- More than 100 vendors will offer up fresh gulf shrimp, stone crab claws, fried gator and lots more seafood. Also included: live country music, handmade arts & crafts and midway carnival rides.
Where: Everglades City
Web: evergladesseafoodfestival.org

ITALIAN FEAST & CARNIVAL -- On the menu will be all kinds of great Italian food and wine, along with midway rides, games and live music.
Where: Venice
Web: italianamericanclubofvenice.com/feast

FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL – Celebrate the best of Greek food, music, dancing, and culture. Experience authentic Greek foods and homemade Greek pastries, Greek music, traditional Greek dancing by Palazakia and Kamaria dancers, an indoor marketplace full of vendors and an outdoor area for kids with carnival rides and games.
Where: Fort Lauderdale
Web: fortlauderdalegreekfestival.org

MARCH

WELLINGTON BACON & BOURBON FESTIVAL – Two American favorites, bourbon and bacon, are wrapped together in a two-day, palate-pleasing party. Taste an array of bacon and pork-related dishes such as braised pork bellies with tamari, garlic, ginger & chili peppers, and polish it off with bacon ice cream. Try an eclectic selection of bourbon and whiskeys and learn more about the spirits through seminars and tastings.
Where: Wellington
Web: baconbourbonfest.com

MARATHON SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – What began as a small gathering in a Publix parking lot has grown to a popular fresh seafood extravaganza drawing more than 20,000 attendees each year. The event is designed to allow Marathon and Middle Keys commercial fishermen and their families (and visitors) to kick back and enjoy the fruits of their labor in the form of fried fresh catches and spiny lobster, raw oysters, stone crab claws and other delicious shellfish and seafood from the warm Keys waters. Also included: live music, more than 200 arts & crafts vendors, raffles and lots of activities for kids.
Where: Marathon
Web: marathonseafoodfestival.com

BOCA BACCHANAL – Guests meet award-winning chefs and vintners while savoring their signature cuisine and wine selections at an open-air event. It features hundreds of wines, by-the-bite specialties prepared by exceptional chefs from South Florida restaurants as well as a beer garden serving craft beer, ales and lagers. Events include Bacchus Beckons, Bubbles & Burgers, Vintner Dinners and the Grand Tasting.
Where: Boca Raton
Web: bocabacchanal.com

FORT MYERS BEACH SHRIMP FESTIVAL -- It’s one of the major events of the year for Fort Myers Beach. Besides the delicious “pink gold” shrimp dinners, there is a parade, arts & crafts vendors, a Queen Pageant and a shrimp-eating contest.
Where: Fort Myers Beach
Web: fortmyersbeachshrimpfestival.com

SPECKLED PERCH FESTIVAL – Dating back to 1965, attendees have been enjoying the title-named fish and other good food, local live music, arts and crafts and a parade. The festival is held in collaboration with the Cow Town Rodeo.
Where: Okeechobee
Web: okeechobeemainstreet.org

NAPLES CRAFT BEER FEST -- A wide variety of beers from breweries across the country and the world are available for tasting. To enhance the tasting, many local restaurants are a part of the Fest and will provide food pairings that are designed to specifically match with a particular brew. The chefs will compete to win the People's Choice award for best pairing and there will be a Brewer's Choice award, too. The fest also showcases local musical talent.
Where: Naples
Web:   naplescraftbeerfest.com

RIVERWALK INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL --  Discover cuisines from around the world from the city’s international restaurants and food trucks. There will also be craft beers, cocktails, music, and a chance to buy from local artists.
Where: Fort Lauderdale
Web: goriverwalk.com/events

DANIA BEACH ARTS & SEAFOOD CELEBRATION – Fresh seafood and other culinary delights from top local restaurants will be served. Also included: A Chef Showcase, beer & wine garden, live music, arts & crafts vendors, live street art performances and lots of activities for kids.
Where: Dania Beach
Web:   daniabeachwineandseafoodfest.com

APRIL

DEERING SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – This consistently sold-out event is known for its cornucopia of culinary delights, featuring delicious catches from the sea, chef demos and sumptuous fare along Seafood Alley. It’s a day of family fun, dancing and grooving to the tunes of the Bahamian Junkanoo and Virgin Island stilt walkers. The Lil’ Shrimp Kids Zone provides unlimited play on inflatables, creative activities and a kids-friendly menu. Activities also include a rock-climbing wall, Pelican Skipper boat rides and Artists Lane, featuring paintings, photography, crafts and jewelry, all by local artisans.
Where: Miami
Web: deeringestate.org/deering-seafood-festival

SWEET CORN FIESTA -- Sunshine yellow, hot and buttery. What’s not to like about freshly harvested sweet corn grown locally in the famous black soil of The Glades Region in The Palm Beaches. Combine the delectable eats with the all-day events of a harvest celebration and you have a family-friendly treat like no other. Live music, lots of summertime foods and kid’s activities will keep you smiling all day long. There will also be a sweet corn eating challenge and a corn shucking contest.
Where: West Palm Beach
Web: sweetcornfiesta.com

FORT MYERS CRAB & MUSIC FESTIVAL -- Crab and shrimp on your list of favorite foods? Love listening to live music? This one is for you. It has more than crab and shrimp: all kinds of seafood, meat dishes and vegetarian meals. Great live music and a marketplace of arts & crafts, gourmet food items and specialty products are also on tap.
Where: River District in downtown Fort Myers
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

POMPANO BEACH SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – Good food for sure, but it doesn’t stop with that. There’s a craft fair, lots of great live music on three stages and a kid’s zone.
Where: Pompano Beach
Web: pompanobeachseafoodfestival.com

MAY

TASTE OF THE BEACH – More than 20 local restaurants will present their dishes and compete for prizes for Best Appetizer, Best Beef Dish, Best Chicken Dish, Best Seafood Dish and Best Dessert.
Where: Fort Myers Beach
Web: fortmyersbeach.org/taste-of-the-beach

PAIRINGS -- More than a dozen eateries will present their fare at this event, which will also include live music, interactive art stations and, of course, good wine and beer to go with the food.
Where: West Palm Beach
Web: downtownwpb.com/pairings

ST. AUGUSTINE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL – Called one of Florida’s top 10 food and wine festivals by USA Today, this event brings local and celebrity chefs, winemakers, craft beer, and artisans together for dinners, tasting events, master classes and more. 

Where: St. Augustine

Web: staugustinefoodandwinefestival.com/

JUNE

REDLAND SUMMER FRUIT FESTIVAL -- Enjoy seasonal and rare fruits, vendor booths, local wines and yummy foods. Don’t miss the hilarious watermelon-eating contest for kids. Children 11 & under get in free.
Where: Homestead
Web: redlandfruitandspice.com

JULY

KEY LIME FESTIVAL – Head to this mega-celebration of Florida’s official state pie. It includes, of course, pie-eating and pie-making contests, the Key Lime Bar Sip & Stroll, a wacky talent show, the Key Lime Pie Hop, samplings of Keys-distilled rum flavored with the tangy lime, a scavenger hunt and the Miss Key Lime Pie and L’il Miss Key Lime pageants.  A spectacular fireworks display on the fourth helps open the festivities.
Where: Key West
Web: keylimefestival.com

BOCA BURGER BATTLE -- You’ll not only find great burgers, but there will also be an array of tasting stations featuring other gourmet goodies. There also will be a variety of craft beers and outstanding wines.
Where: Boca Raton
Web: facebook.com/BocaBurgerBattle

THE MONTH OF THE MANGO – Two fests celebrate the King of Tropical Fruit in July: the International Mango & Tropical Fruit Festival and the MangoMania Tropical Fruit Fair. A variety of mango-centric activities will be offered at both: yummy tastings, recipes, food demonstrations, refreshing mango smoothies, mango trees for sale, pie-eating contests, island-flavored music, vendors and children’s activities.
Where: Respectively, Coral Gables, Cape Coral.
Web: Respectively, fairchildgarden.org, mangomaniafl.net

BON APPETIT BOCA RESTAURANT MONTH – Three-course meals for both dinner and lunch are offered at top Boca restaurants throughout the month.
Where: Boca Raton
Web: bocarestaurantmonth.com

AUGUST

KEY WEST LOBSTERFEST – People come from all over the world to fish for lobster at the start of the Florida Keys lobster season, so naturally a kick-off celebration is a must. Known as spiny lobsters, the clawless crustaceans offer sweet and tender meat, delicious served cold with lemon and cocktail sauce or warm with drawn butter, chopped and mixed with mayo for salads and sandwiches and broiled with garlic and tomatoes. If this sounds mouthwatering, hit the Lobsterfest.
Where: Downtown Key West
Web: keywestlobsterfest.com

BOCA CHAMBER’S WINE & ALL THAT JAZZ – It’s one of Boca’s largest wine tasting festivals, with up to 18 of the city’s best restaurants and brewers participating. More than 100 fine wines will be available. Live music will be played throughout the evening. There is also a VIP room with even higher end wine, food, beer and spirits.
Where: Boca Raton
Web: bocaratonchamber.com/wine--all-that-jazz 

MIAMI SPICE RESTAURANT MONTHS– It’s not one, but two full months (August and September) of fantastic dining at some 200 restaurants and bistros. Three-course menus will be offered for lunches, brunches and dinners.
Where: Miami
Web: iLoveMiamiSpice.com

SEPTEMBER

KEY WEST BREWFEST – Nearly 200 beers and micro-brews are the big draw, but there is a lot more on tap: beer dinners, beer brunches, happy hour parties, pool parties, late-night parties, seminars and the Signature Tasting event. Takes place over Labor Day Weekend.
Where: Various locations in Key West
Web: keywestbrewfest.com

FEMALE BREW FEST -- The FemAle beer festival is a platform highlighting and featuring female beer experts and brewers, offering an opportunity to learn about and taste the different types of beers brewed by them -- all while listening to the sounds of female solo artists and bands. And, yes, men are invited and encouraged to attend.
Where: Dania Beach
Web: femalebrewfest.com

FLAVOR SOUTH FLORIDA –This month-long event is designed to introduce diners and visitors to the vast array of restaurants throughout Palm Beach County. Each offers a selection of specially priced three-course meals to help guide guests through a gastronomic sampling of great dishes, ranging from steakhouse favorites such as prime rib and truffle-mashed potatoes to lighter ceviche cups and sushi rolls. Just find a restaurant you’d like to try on the website and check out its special Flavor menu.
Where: Various locations in Palm Beach County
Web: flavorpb.com 

SIZZLE SWFL RESTAURANT WEEK -- It’s actually two weeks long and features specially-curated two-course lunches and three-course dinners Eat your way happy across SW Florida.
Where: Outstanding restaurants in Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Estero, Fort Myers, Marco Island and Naples.
Web: sizzledining.com

KEY LIME FESTIVAL -- You’ll find all kinds of key lime-infused specialties, such as pie, (of course!), gelato, ice cream, marinade, fudge, dips, jelly, candy, cookies, taffy, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and Lime-A-Ritas cocktails. Check out the key lime-scented sea salts and soap, too. There will also be family-friendly games, live music and dancing.
Where: Punta Gorda
Web: www.fishermensvillage.com/events

DINE OUT DOWNTOWN DELRAY RESTAURANT MONTH – Discover the diverse dining scene in downtown Delray Beach in this two-month-long foodie fest that takes place September through October. Enjoy prix fixe lunches and dinners ($40 and under), along with special Dine Out deals. Also included will be a series of creative culinary events and classes throughout the week. Brunch and happy hour specials recently have been added.
Where: Various locations in downtown Delray Beach
Web: downtowndelraybeach.com/restaurantmonth

OCTOBER

BEER! BRATWURST! LIVE MUSIC! BAVARIAN BEAUTIES! MORE BEER! -- It being October, we could only be talking about Oktoberfest. Here are some of the places having celebrations in South Florida this month:

·        Lake Worth: americangermanclub.org/oktoberfest

·        Cape Coral: capecoraloktoberfest.com

·        Miami: oktoberfest.miami

SOUTH BEACH SEAFOOD WEEK & FESTIVAL – You’ll help kick off the Stone Crab season and enjoy a myriad of other seafood yummies prepared by Miami’s top chefs and restaurants. Also: live bands, culinary and mixology demonstrations, a kids’ zone, health village and VIP hospitality benefits.
Where: Various locations in Miami Beach
Web: sobeseafoodfest.com

NAPLES STONE CRAB FESTIVAL –  A Naples tradition, this festival on the waterfront offers great stone crab claws as well as live music, shopping, art and fun activities for the whole family.
Where: Various locations in Naples
Web: stonecrabfestival.org

NOVEMBER

FEAST OF LITTLE ITALY – It’s one of the largest Italian festivals in South Florida. Of course, there will be great Italian food and wine, but so much more: live music, art, a bocce pavilion, wine seminars, cooking demos and pizza and lasagna eating contests.
Where: Jupiter
Web: feastoflittleitaly.com

GRACE JAMAICAN JERK FESTIVAL – You are no jerk if you attend this jerk-a-thon. It features everything jerk: chicken, pork, lobster, corn, patties and even ice cream. It features cooking demonstrations and competitions, with amateur and professional chefs going head-to-head in a heated competition for cash, bragging rights and the coveted Dutch Pot Trophy. Top chefs demonstrate and let you sample innovative jerk recipes. Lots of live music and exciting games, too.
Where: Miramar
Web: jerkfestival.com

PERUFEST USA – Enjoy this gastronomical gathering and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Weekend at the same time. In addition to Peruvian and Latin cuisine, you’ll experience a show by international dancers, the “Caballo de Paso” horse show, Quinoa cooking demonstrations, cooking classes for adults and kids and competitions for Best Quinoa-based plate, Best Ceviche, Best Causa and Best Lomo Saltado.
Where: Miami
Web: perufestusa.com

MIAMI RUM RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL – Spend a weekend trying hundreds of fine rums from the Caribbean and beyond at one of the largest rum festivals in the world. Learn how rum makes delicious drinks, from island-style Polynesia tiki cocktails to more sophisticated rums best served straight-up or on the rocks. Take notes from the RumXP International Rum Expert Tasting Panel as it judges multiple categories of the drink.
Where: Coral Gables
Web: rumrenaissance.com

DECEMBER

PALM BEACH FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL– This fest brings together an eclectic collection of the world’s award-winning chefs, culinary personalities, authors, winemakers and mixologists to this picturesque island. Also included are specialty cocktail and hors d'oeuvre receptions, five-course dinners with premium wine pairings, kids' cooking classes and the final grand tasting and cooking competition.
Where: Palm Beach
Web: pbfwf.com

SIESTA BEACH SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL – A variety of seafood, cooked fresh on site, will be available, along with plenty of meat dishes and vegetarian fare. While savoring your meal, relax to some of Florida’s top musical groups and solo acts from genres such as R&B, blues, jazz, rock and Caribbean sounds.
Where: Siesta Key
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA

JANUARY

FELLSMERE FROG LEG FESTIVAL – For a true, down-home, small-town festival experience, look no further than the Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival, which is exactly what it sounds like: platters of delicious frog legs served with grits, coleslaw and hush puppies. For the squeamish, there’s also the less adventurous gator tail as well as hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, candy apples and other festival food fare.
Where: Fellsmere
Web: froglegfestival.com

SARASOTA SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL - Grouper and stone crabs and oysters, oh my! This three-day festival offers fabulous, fresh food as well as live R&B, rock, soul, jazz and Caribbean performances by some of Florida’s top bands. A marketplace brimming with arts, crafts and fine products rounds out the fun.
Where: Sarasota
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

ST. PETE BEER & BACON FESTIVAL – Two indulgent favorites – beer and bacon! – come together in sweet harmony at a beautiful waterfront park. Choose drink samples from more than 100 varieties of craft beer, wine and liquor from local breweries and distilleries while eating your way through more than 60 bacon-heavy dishes offered by national and local BBQ joints and food truck vendors.
Where:  St. Petersburg
Web: stpetebeerandbacon.com

LAKELAND PIGFEST -- Join the more than 150 competition barbecue teams for a weekend of good eats, good friends and good tunes. Stop by a Pig Bucks booth (located near the entrance and various locations throughout) and exchange your cash for Pig Bucks, the official currency of the Lakeland Pigfest.         
Where: Lakeland
Web: lakelandpigfest.org

FORKS & CORKS WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL – This world class weekend offers a bounty of flavors through vintner events, wine and beer tastings and food sampling from top area restaurants. A charity wine auction and live music are also on the schedule. Spring for the VIP package and get a $150 wine voucher.
Where: Sarasota
Web: eatlikealocal.com/forksandcorks

CRAZY PEPPER CHILI COOK OFF – Fire up your taste buds! The event includes chili-dog eating contests for both kids and adults, which bring new meaning to the word “messy.”
Where: Sebring
Web: rotarychili.com

FEBRUARY

PIGZ IN Z’HILLS BBQ & BLUES FESTIVAL – It’s a friendly BBQ competition amidst a steady background of blues music. Also included: a business expo, cornhole tournament, kid’s zone, the Swine & Shine car show, an aviation showcase and a military history museum.
Where: Zephyrhills
Web: zephyrhillschamber.org/bbq-blues

ENTERPRISE CHILI COOK-OFF – A quaint historic town holds its chili cook-off, offering several types of chili to hungry guests.
Where: Enterprise
Web: oldenterprise.org

ST. PETERSBURG SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL – This three-day festival promises the perfect recipe for a great time, blending delectable seafood creations with outstanding live musical performances and a marketplace of arts, crafts and select fine products.
Where: St. Petersburg
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

SEAWORLD SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVAL -- As guests sip and sample their way through the park, they will discover globally-inspired flavors while enjoying local craft beers and culinary marketplaces. The fun goes beyond the food, with live performances from top country, rock and Latin music acts. It usually starts in February and runs through mid-May, but only on weekends.
Where: Orlando
Web: seaworld.com/seven-seas-food-festival

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL – Guests come from near and far to discover not only creative ways to enjoy strawberries, but also to see exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, live entertainment, horticulture, and crafts. This 11-day festival sometimes stretches into March.
Where: Plant City
Web: flstrawberryfestival.com

ST. SOPHIA GREEK FESTIVAL -- Come and enjoy a taste of Greek culture, Greek food, and Greek entertainment. A Sweetheart Dance has been added for those who want to enjoy the festival but still want to sneak a little dance with their spouses or partners. OPA!!
Where: Winter Haven
Web: stsophia.fl.goarch.org 

TAMPA BAY JEWISH FOOD FESTIVAL -- Shop the vendors, let your kids enjoy the kids’ zone, listen to the wonderful live music and enjoy some delicious traditional Jewish food and drinks. Here are just some of the mouthwatering eats that will be available: handmade baked goods, matzo ball & chicken soup from scratch, scrumptious corned beef & pastrami from the famous Carnegie Deli, knishes, noodle kugel, bagels & lox, kosher falafel and hot dogs.
Where: Clearwater
Web: tampabayjewishfoodfestival.com

TAMPA THEATRE WINE FEST – Each year, the theatre has a different movie-themed name (Example: For 2020 it is Cabbyshack). You will taste exceptional wines and delectable food from the area’s finest independent restaurants and have the opportunity to bid on exciting auction items.
Where: Tampa
Web: TampaTheatre.org/WineFest

FLORIDA CRAFT BREW & WINGFEST – Sample hundreds of delicious craft brews, including rare selections and high-quality local home brews. Fill your belly with a variety of chicken wings prepared by local chefs and amateur competitors vying for glory in the wing competition. Bring the family to chill on the lawn and jam to the bands, taking in the sun and fun. If you want a full cup of beer, stroll over to one of four beer trucks.
Where: Vero Beach
Web: floridacraftbrewandwingfest.com

MARCH

GRANT SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – A scrumptious menu of succulent seafood is accompanied by more than 100 crafters and live entertainment. All the seafood is cooked by members of the local community.
Where: Grant City
Web: grantseafoodfestival.com

FLORAL CITY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL -- There will be plenty of activities for all ages including craft vendors, live entertainment, the Miss Strawberry Pageant, children's activities, and boatloads of fresh strawberries straight from the award-winning Ferris Farms. Don't forget the mouth-watering strawberry shortcake!
Where: Floral City
Web: gostrawberryfest.com

TAMPA BAY BEER WEEK – Actually, it’s nine days long and once again, with more than 70 local craft beer makers and specialty brews on hand, shows why the Tampa area has become a beer hotbed. Tastings and beer dinners abound.
Where: Various locations in the Tampa area
Web: tampabaybeerweek.com

RIVER DAYS & CRAFT BREW HULLABALLOO – It’s three days of shrimp, craft brews, live music, vendors and activities for kids. Bring your lawn chairs and spend the day under the oaks listening to music, drinking beer and wine and chowing down on shrimp, hot dogs, hamburgers and pizza.
Where: Sebastian
Web: riverdaysfl.com 

BUSCH GARDENS FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL -- This lengthy fest starts in early March and ends in mid-May, but it is only held on Saturdays and Sundays. It offers a variety of great food, wine, craft beers, cocktails and entertainment. Some of the biggest musical acts in the country will take the stage Festival Field. All concerts are included with daily ticketed admission to the park.
Where: Tampa
Web: buschgardens.com/food-and-wine-festival

 COQUINA BEACH SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL – Enjoy fresh food cooked on site, and not just seafood. Plenty of meat dishes, vegetarian and desserts will be served. While eating, you’ll enjoy lots of good live music: rock, reggae, jazz, R&B and Caribbean Sounds.
Where: Bradenton Beach
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

APRIL

ZOOBREWS @ ZOOTAMPA – Wine lovers will sip bold and decadent wines, beer enthusiasts will savor a variety of craft brews, and mixologists will create innovative cocktails. Foodies can indulge in perfect pairings to match their choice of drink. Guests will encounter amazing wildlife and dance the night away to live music in a lush tropical garden.
Where: Tampa
Web: zootampa.org/zoobrews

FLORIDA WINEFEST & AUCTION -- You are invited to sip and sample some of the world's best wine on the shore of Sarasota Bay, dine and dance in the streets of downtown, savor the flavors of local chefs and raise your bid paddle for some of the best auction lots in the wine business.
Where: Sarasota
Web: floridawinefest.org

SEBRING SODA FESTIVAL – Join in the fizzy family fun at this two-day celebration of carbonation in downtown Sebring. The nostalgic event offers hundreds of craft sodas that you can sample, as well as live entertainment, art and craft vendors, pop-up stores, food options and a kids’ zone.
Where: Sebring
Web: visitsebring.com/soda-festival

BLUEGRASS AND BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL – Blue may become your favorite color after a day at this festival, which offers live entertainment, vendors, raffles, BBQ and a kids’ zone.
Where: Avon Park
Web: rotaryclubofavonpark.com 

FESTA ITALIANA – Historic Ybor City is known for its Cuban roots thanks to its former cigar-rolling jobs, but the district also likes to honor its Italian culture as well. The Festa Italiana kicks off with a wine party featuring more than 70 wines, as well as Italian antipasti, cuisine and desserts. It ends with the main event, during which dozens of the Tampa Bay area’s top restaurants and catering companies serve delicious dishes and tastings.
Where: Tampa
Web: festaitalianatampa.com

BERN’S WINE FEST – You have eight days to indulge in all your wildest culinary and wine fantasies. It was created to allow unique food and wine experiences with the area's most talented culinary teams complemented by the best wines from around the world.
Where: Tampa
Web: bernswinefest.com

TASTE @ THE STRAZ – This gathering of food groupies and craft beer brewers used to be known as the Best of Tampa Bay. It may have a new name, but the same great time will be had by attendees. It’s an evening of all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink fun, with three stages of live music. There will be full open bars and more than 50 of the best local restaurants represented.
Where: Tampa
Web: strazcenter.org 

NEW SMYRNA BEACH  FOOD FESTIVAL – This one-day festival celebrates Volusia county’s best restaurants, with tastings, live music, and arts and crafts vendors. Restaurants will compete for the, “Best on the Beach” award.
Where: New Smyrna Beach
Web: flaglerave.com 

TAMPA BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL -- Every year, Keel and Curley Winery and Keel Farms celebrate the Spring Blueberry Harvest with three weekends of fun for the whole family. The fest serves up live music, a kids’ area, u-pick ’em blueberries, wine tasting, food vendors and crafts vendors.
Where: Plant City
Web: keelfarms.com/festivals

MAY

TAMPA RIVERFEST -- Events include a full concert line-up, Wiener Dog Derby, Paddle Invasion, Tampa Bay Pride Band, Taco Fest, beer bars, margarita bar, and Taste of the Riverwalk.. Additionally, many of the venues, museums, bars, and restaurants along the Riverwalk have special activities that day.
Where: Tampa
Web: thetampariverwalk.com/riverfest

CUBAN SANDWICH FESTIVAL OF CENTRAL FLORIDA AND THE FORD INTERNATIONAL CUBAN SANDWICH FESTIVAL– Yes, there are two Cuban sandwich festivals in May. An attempt is always made to create the biggest Cuban sandwich in the world. Besides that, and yummy individual Cuban sandwiches, there will be other kinds of food, beef, wine, live music and dance performances and lots of activities for kids.
Where: Kissimmee and Tampa
Web: thecubansandwichfestival.com

JUNE

DESSERT WARS TAMPA – Hang out at one of Tampa’s coolest marketplace lounge of cafes, counter-service restaurants and bars and sample desserts from some of the best pastry chefs, cooks and bakers in town, all vying for the Dessert Champion title. The event will offer a wide array of sweets from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, donuts and creative concoctions that don’t fit any of the categories but are tasty nonetheless.
Where: Tampa
Web: www.dessert-wars.com/

CHIEFLAND WATERMELON FESTIVAL – Delicious watermelon is the main draw but other activities include a parade, seed-spitting contest, biggest (in pounds) watermelon contest, the selection of the festival queen, a watermelon auction, arts & crafts and lots of children’s activities.
Where: Chiefland
Web: chieflandwomansclub.org/watermelon-festival

SEPTEMBER

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL – If it’s at Walt Disney World, you know it’s going to be magical. Here, you’ll “dine around the world” with tasting events and enjoy big-name entertainment, plus culinary demonstrations and seminars on mixology, beverages and cheeses. It usually starts in late August or early September and runs through almost the end of November.
Where: Orlando
Web: epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival

I LIKE IT HOT! FESTIVAL – If you like it hot – we’re talking mouth-burning, tear-jerking, forehead-sweating spicy – you’ll likely meet your match at this event. The toughest of palates, as well as those who like it considerably milder, can try hundreds of gourmet and novelty foods, including beef jerky, sauces, salsas, jellies, rubs, lollipops and straight-up raw hot peppers. 
Where: Largo
Web: ilikeithotfestival.com/

OCTOBER

CEDAR KEY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL - The historic fishing town celebrates the area’s fishing heritage, offering two days of fantastic food, a parade, more than 100 arts and crafts exhibitors, live music on a clam boat stage in the beachside park and loads more family fun.  
Where:  Cedar Key
Web:  cedarkey.org

SARASOTA ROCKTOBERFEST – Okay, it’s not Germany, but you might not know the difference. There will be lively music and dancers, mouthwatering food, huge pints of beer and arts & crafts vendors. Re the food: The fare includes, among others, smoked sausages, roasted meats, sauerkraut, cabbage and pretzels.
Where: Sarasota
Web: seafoodfestivals.com

PIG JIG -- What began as a back-yard barbecue has turned into a large festival with great food, live music, beer, wine and games.
Where: Tampa
Web: tampapigjig.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA VEG FEST – This vegetarian festival touts itself as one of the biggest and best in the country, drawing hundreds of food and product vendors and presenters from around the world. Bring your dog, pet a pig, take a yoga class and sample creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. 
Where: Orlando
Web: cfvegfest.org/

NOVEMBER

SAVOR ST. PETE FESTIVAL – It’s a palate-pleasing, star-studded weekend showcasing the talents of renowned wine and spirits producers, brew masters, chefs and culinary personalities. The Best Chef competition features culinary professionals from the area’s best and most popular restaurants vying to out-cook each other.
Where: St. Petersburg
Web: savortheburg.com

STONE CRAB JAM MUSIC FESTIVAL– Celebrate the season of one of Florida’s most sustainable seafood treats, harvested from the tough-shelled, regenerating claws of the stone crab. Along with vendors selling crab, there will also be everything from hot dogs to pizza to snow cones, plus locally made art, clothing and crafts. Register for the corn hole tournament to win cash prizes, or dance along to any of the six bands on three stages.
Where: Downtown Crystal River
Web: stonecrabjam.com

TAMPA BAY VEG FEST – Vegans and non-vegans alike can enjoy free samples of animal-free dishes at this ever-growing and award-winning fest. It features various grocers, products and eco-friendly organizations from around the Tampa Bay area and also has yoga classes, cooking demonstrations, live music, activities for kids and on-site rescue animal adoptions.
Where: Downtown Tampa
Web: tampabayvegfest.org

YANKEETOWN ARTS, CRAFTS & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – Celebrate the area’s history and local catch. In addition to delicious fresh local seafood, there will be other food vendors, live entertainment, an arts & crafts show, children’s games and the Blessing of the Fleet on the Withlacoochee River.
Where: Yankeetown
Web: yankeetownseafoodfestival.com

SAFETY HARBOR WINE FESTIVAL – Enjoy an exciting night of wine, live entertainment on multiple stages, great food and arts & crafts vendors.
Where: Safety Harbor
Web: cityofsafetyharbor.com

TAMPA GREEK FESTIVAL – It’s one of Hillsborough County’s oldest cultural celebrations. Satisfy your craving for lamb, gyros, herb lemon chicken and many more delicious authentic Greek dishes. Don’t miss the sweets, such as Baklava, Kourambiedes and Koulourakia. Attendees can enjoy live music and dancing, strolling the Grand Hall, indulging in the inventive spirits at the Opa! Party Tent and discovering market treasures.
Where: Tampa
Web: tampagreekfestival.com

HOMOSASSA ARTS, CRAFTS AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL -- Homosassa has been home to many commercial fishermen with its spring-fed river and has been a nationally known sport fishing and recreation area since the mid-1800s.  The art show is judged and non-judged with exhibitors from all over the country. Vendors from the community provide their seafood and other specialties. Whether it's fried catfish, gator tail or conch fritters, you will find it all and more in the food court.
Where: Homosassa
Web: homosassaseafoodfestival.org

CASSELBERRY FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL – Attendees will enjoy a culinary cuisine tasting, wine sampling, a silent auction and live music.
Where: Casselberry
Web: casselberryfoodwinefest.com

WALT DISNEY WORLD WINE & FOOD CLASSIC – Come for a day or the weekend to sample wines from around the world and savor culinary artistry from pastries to pasta. There are seminars on such subjects as wines, cocktails, beer, pasta-making, cheese pairing or the fine art of sushi and sake.
Where: Lake Buena Vista
Web: swandolphinfoodandwineclassic.com

WHISKEY TAMPA FOX TROT –Enjoy several nights of seated tastings, dinners and classes. It ends with the Grand Pour, where you can sample more than 200 hand-crafted whiskeys.
Where: Tampa
Web: whiskeytampafoxtrot.com

ORLANDO BEER FESTIVAL – Sample craft and premium beers from area breweries and around the world. Wine tasting, interactive games, tasty eats and live music keep the party going.
Where: Orlando
Web: orlandobeerfestival.com

ART, CRAFT & WINE FESTIVAL – More than 150 artists and craftsmen sell original artwork and gifts in beautiful Cranes Roost Park. Guests can also stop by the various wine tents and taste a wide variety of reds, whites, champagnes and roses as a part of the event’s Wine Stroll. 
Where: Altamonte Springs
Web: aacwf.com

DECEMBER

TAMPA OYSTER FEST – Oysters every way you can imagine, from traditional low-country boil to barbequed. Also enjoy games and live music. The event supports Frameworks of Tampa Bay, a charity that helps the emotional development of children.
Where: Tampa
Web: tampaoysterfest.com

NORTH FLORIDA

JANUARY

AMELIA ISLAND RESTAURANT WEEK – At one of Florida’s prettiest islands, spend a week dining at some of the 30-plus participating restaurants – from Cuban fare to seafood and pub-style dishes – offering a prix-fixe menu. It also includes mixology tours in which you can stroll among watering holes in historic downtown Fernandina Beach and sample craft cocktails, meet the bartenders and mingle with the Island’s friendly locals.
Where: Amelia Island
Web: ameliaisland.com/yummy 

FEBRUARY

FIDDLER CRAB FESTIVAL – The small, inedible fiddler crab is a mere backdrop to this festival featuring the Swampwater Cook-Off, in which both amateur and professional chefs toil and boil from sunrise until lunchtime on their secret recipe soups, stews (particularly Brunswick) and chili. In the meantime, festival goers can nosh on seafood, BBQ, kettle corn and funnel cakes.
Where: Steinhatchee
Web: steinhatcheechamber.com/fiddler-crab-festival

THE SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL – Chefs from all over the Gulf Coast put their own spin on gumbo, whether made with dark or light roux, different types of meat and a range of flavors and spices. Get a wristband and a “taster’s guide” and sample a wide variety of gumbo as you vote for the People’s Choice winner.
Where: Sandestin
Web: sandestingumbofestival.com

30A WINE FESTIVAL– About a dozen vineyards and wineries from all over the country as well as a handful of local restaurants feature their best fare during an elegant, three-day tasting event. It is a showcase of premiere wine producers and local culinary favorites. It features a Friday night gathering, "Bourbon, Beer, and Butts",  Saturday wine tasting seminars, a walkabout and grand tasting, band party at nightfall, and Sunday's exclusive event, "Fruits de Mer & Sancerre" complete with croquet tournament (appropriate croquet attire encouraged).
Where: Alys Beach
Web: 30awinefestival.com

RIVERSIDE CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL – Experience live music while sampling more than 100 local and national craft beers and enjoying delicious food from the top area food trucks.
Where: Jacksonville
Web: riversidecraftbeerfestival.com

FOOD TRUCK & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL — Attendees can sip and sample their way through a variety of local food truck specialties as well as a variety of craft beers. More than 20 craft breweries (most from Florida) will pour their favorites. Food truck offerings will be varied and international in flavor.
Where: Panama City Beach
Web: visitpanamacitybeach.com/events

MARCH

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL -- Dating back to 1930s, this fest attracts some 500,000 each year and takes place in one of Florida’s most important winter strawberry-growing regions that stretches across 8,000 acres. There are sweet treats galore, where you can nibble on anything from strawberry shortcake and chocolate-dipped strawberries to strawberry pizza and strawberry burgers. The fest showcases a Strawberry Festival Queen in addition to live entertainment, rides, arts & crafts vendors and livestock exhibits. Top musical acts from all genres are included. For example, the past events included Reba McEntire, Oakridge Boys, Patti LaBelle and Lynyrd Skynyrd. This event sometimes starts in February and ends in March.
Where: Plant City
Web: flstrawberryfestival.com

TEQUILA AND TACO FESTIVAL: Originally started as an in-restaurant event pairing outlandish tacos with fine tequilas, this festival features a competition for “Best Taco on The Emerald Coast” with a $2,500 top prize.
Where: Miramar Beach
Web efestevents.com/tequila-taco-fest-destin 

APRIL

ST. AUGUSTINE LIONS SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – For more than three decades, this seafood festival has been a favorite among Floridians, drawing tens of thousands every year. And it’s no wonder; with a handful of refundable tokens, you can fill up on everything from seafood quesadillas to rockfish strips to alligator skewers. For dessert, try the chocolate key lime pie or fried candy bars. Also included: 100 arts & craft exhibitors, lots of kid’s activities and a wide variety of live music.
Where: St. Augustine
Web: lionsfestival.com

UNwineD – Partnering with Southern Living magazine, UNwineD is a weekend of amazing craft beer, wine and spirits from around the world. You can also sample creations from many of Northwest Florida’s renowned chefs. This award-winning event includes an elegant garden party and grand tasting where guests can mix and mingle while enjoying hors d’oeuvre, cocktails and live music.  
Where: Panama City Beach
Web: visitpanamacitybeach.com/unwined

ISLE OF EIGHT FLAGS SHRIMP FESTIVAL – Amelia Island’s “Isle of Eight Flags” story is a long and complicated one, involving bloody battles and a clash of cultures, but the main take away from it all is that the island’s deep-water harbors contain shrimp. Lots of shrimp. This festival honors Florida’s shrimping industry by serving the little guys up hot, cold, fried, on skewers, in gumbo and chopped into salads. There’s also an ice cream eating contest for the brave and brain-freeze immune. There will be 300 arts & crafters, 50 antique dealers, 25 kid zone activities and live music on two stages.
Where: Fernandina Beach
Web: shrimpfestival.com

SOUTH WALTON BEACHES FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL – Wash down fine cheeses, olives, sushi, oysters, charcuterie and chocolates with a selection of more than 800 wines. This jam-packed weekend of events is spread among several resorts, wine shops and other venues where people can smell and taste different reds, whites and champagnes, sample craft beer and try creative and unusual wine and cheese pairings.
Where: South Walton
Web: sowalwine.com

BRADFORD COUNTY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL – In addition to all the fresh strawberries and lots of homemade strawberry goodies, the fest includes a car show and craft vendors.
Where: Starke
Web: bradfordcountystrawberryfestival.com

SANDESTIN WINE VESTIVAL -- Take part in Sandestin wine tastings showcasing more than 800 domestic and international wines. Wine novices are able to learn more about wines and sample from a comprehensive selection including the finest appellations from all major producing countries in all varieties, styles and price ranges. Wine aficionados enjoy meeting winemakers, asking questions and acquiring hard-to-get selections. Good food should accompany good wine and plenty of that will be available, too.
Where: Sandestin
Web: sandestinwinefestival.com

JUNE
 

PANHANDLE WATERMELON FESTIVAL – You’ll enjoy great food and entertainment at this fest. Activities include a seed spitting contest, watermelon auction, car show, art show, horseshoe tournament, live country music and street fair.
Where: Chipley
Web: panhandlewatermelon.com

JULY

WAUSAU POSSUM FESTIVAL – Possum stew is the main food dish, but there is a whole lot of fun to be had at this fest: Possum King & Queen contest, live music (country, bluegrass and gospel), arts & crafts vendors, the Possum Parade, horseshoe pitching, sack races, hog calling, rooster crowing and cow lowing.
Where: Wausau
Web: wausaupossumfestival.com/

GREEK FESTIVAL – There’s a lot more than just great Greek food and pastries: live music, dancers, a silent auction and arts & craft booths.
Where: Fort Walton Beach
Web: stmarkella.org/festival

FLORIDA SCALLOP, MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL – Fried scallop plates will be available at the festival and you can take frozen scallops home. The event also includes live music, arts and crafts vendors, educational exhibits and a kids’ zone.
Where: Port St. Joe
Web: scallopfestfl.org

AUGUST

TALLAHASSEE BEER FESTIVAL -- Enjoy unlimited samples of 200 different beers, ales, ciders, seltzers and meads from 60 plus brewers & breweries. Food will also be available and a cornhole tournament will be held.
Where: Tallahassee
Web: TLHBeerfest.com

SEPTEMBER

PENSACOLA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – It’s one of Northwest Florida’s longest running festivals and you can expect lots of great Gulf-to-table dishes, like fried mullet and shrimp and grits from the city’s top restaurants. Also included will be live music, cooking demonstrations and an array of family-friendly activities like face painting and arts & crafts.
Where: Downtown Pensacola
Web: pensacolaseafoodfestival.com

SOUTHERN PINES BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL — Get slathered and sauced and enjoy a break from all thing merry and bright at this event, which pairs downhome BBQ with soulful blues. Come hungry, the People’s Choice category features more than 35 different pulled pork recipes. Participants will be vying for barbeque bragging rights and $10,000 in prize money. It also features arts & crafts vendors, an antique car show, a kids’ play area and live music.
Where: Perry
Web: www.smokininthepinesbbq.com/

OCTOBER

PANAMA CITY BEACH OKTOBERFEST – You might think you are in Munich when you are under the massive 150-foot by 50-foot big tent. Outside there are two beer gardens. Pair your German or locally-brewed beer with brats (famous or smoked), meterwurst or hotdogs (with or without sauerkraut). Don’t miss the giant pretzels with beer-infused cheese. The fest also includes live music, dancers and lots of activities for kids.
Where: Panama City Beach
Web: visitpanamacitybeach.com/oktoberfest

TALLAHASSEE GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL – Florida’s Greek population brings a lot of great things to the Sunshine State, not the least of which is delicious Mediterranean cuisine such as gyros, spanakopita, baklava, moussaka, Greek salad and anise-infused ouzo.
Where: Tallahassee
Web: tallahasseegreekfoodfest.com

TASTE OF THE BEACH – This festival is filled with chef challenges, team cook-offs, tastings, a dining tent, restaurant’s signature dishes and a kids’ area. There is also a progressive VIP Dinner, where attendees will be transported to four of the area’s best restaurants. If you haven’t seen the beautiful white sandy beaches and the lush green waters of Pensacola Beach, this would be a good time to go.
Where: Pensacola Beach
Web: tasteofpensacolabeach.com

LOBSTER FESTIVAL & TOURNAMENT -- This three-day celebration offers live music, contests and lots of Florida lobster. With huge local lobsters on the weigh-in scales, fresh lobster prepared every mouth-watering way you can imagine, bonfires, and live music, it is a huge event that draws thousands of divers and lobster fans from all over the Southeast.
Where: Panama City Beach
Web: schooners.com/lobsterfestival

NOVEMBER

SEEING RED WINE FESTIVAL – The four days of festivities include reserve wine tastings, dinners and a brunch with featured guest winemakers. Several of Seaside’s well-known restaurants showcase how their farm-to-fork and gulf-to-table offerings pair beautifully with the featured red wines. And, yes, whites and rosés also will be available.
Where: Seaside
Web: seeingredwinefestival.com

RIVERSIDE WINEFEST –Some 250 wines will be available at this fest, which also includes food vendors, live entertainment and shopping.
Where: Jacksonville
Web: riversidewinefest.com