Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival is taking place in Greater Fort Lauderdale from January 13 to 19, 2025. This premier event will offer a week-long celebration of fine food, wine, and spirits, featuring 35 immersive experiences, including exclusive dinners, engaging cooking classes, and dynamic signature events. As the sixth annual festival, it continues to highlight the region’s exceptional culinary talent, blending innovative dishes with an engaging community atmosphere.
A Week of Culinary Exploration
The festival’s week-long lineup brings together celebrity chefs, local culinary legends, and beverage experts for an array of engaging events. From hands-on classes to large-scale tasting events, there is something to suit every palate. With its focus on inclusivity and quality, the festival underscores Greater Fort Lauderdale’s diverse food scene and commitment to culinary excellence.
Interactive Culinary Classes
The event kicks off with an impressive selection of cooking classes designed to inspire and educate attendees. Chef Nancy Fuller’s Farmhouse Rules class introduces participants to the art of crafting rustic, heartwarming meals. Fans of Southern cooking will appreciate Chef Jason Smith’s Country Bling Cooking, which blends Southern tradition with modern flair.
For those seeking an international flavour journey, Chef Jorge Montes offers two standout classes: Flavours of Spain, which highlights bold and vibrant Spanish cuisine, and French Cookery, where participants explore the intricacies of classic French techniques. Ramen lovers can join The Art of Ramen with Chefs Alex Kuk and Diego Ng, a deep dive into one of the world’s most beloved comfort foods. Wine and spirits enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in seminars such as Weird Grapes, which uncovers rare and unique wine varietals, and All About Agave, an engaging exploration of tequila’s history and craftsmanship.
These classes are more than just opportunities to learn; they are experiences designed to immerse attendees in the flavours, techniques, and stories behind each dish or drink.
Signature Events That Dazzle
The festival’s signature events bring the community together to celebrate food and drink in grand style. Bar Fight! kicks off the series on January 15 at Rooftop @1WLO, where top mixologists will battle in a lively cocktail competition. Guests can sample inventive drinks and vote for their favourite, making this event both interactive and exciting.
On January 16, Wok ‘n Roll takes centre stage with Asian-inspired dishes paired with vibrant live music. The dynamic setting creates an atmosphere that encourages guests to savour the rich flavours of Asian cuisine while enjoying an energetic soundtrack. The next evening, BBQ at the Beach, hosted by Food Network star Chef Jason Smith, offers a celebration of Southern-style barbecue with a pitmaster competition and live entertainment.
The marquee event, The Grand Tasting, on January 18, is a highlight of the week. Held at Las Olas Oceanside Park, this event features over 100 food and drink tastings, celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, and live music. Attendees can enjoy unlimited samples, a commemorative tasting glass, and the opportunity to participate in wine and cocktail seminars. For families, Picnic in the Park on January 19 provides a relaxed atmosphere with food trucks, kid-friendly cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and hands-on culinary activities for all ages.
Exclusive Dinner Series
The exclusive dinner series is a key feature of the festival, offering intimate dining experiences with renowned chefs and innovative menus. Heritage sets the tone on January 13 with an Italian-inspired dinner crafted by Chef Rino Cerbone. On January 14, Evelyn’s collaborates with Miami’s Boia De to deliver a cutting-edge dining experience, while Chef Timon Balloo of The Katherine teams up with surprise guest chefs for a meal highlighting creative culinary techniques.
Agave lovers will be drawn to Toro on January 16, where Chef Juan Mateo presents a tequila-themed dinner blending plant-based cuisine with carefully curated tequila pairings. Each dinner in the series provides a one-night-only opportunity to experience the talents of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s top chefs and guest collaborators.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond the culinary indulgence, the festival underscores its commitment to making a positive impact. A portion of all proceeds benefits Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, a vital non-profit supporting children and families in the community. Every ticket purchase contributes to this meaningful cause, allowing attendees to enjoy an exceptional event while supporting a worthwhile mission.
Why Attend the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival?
The festival offers a unique blend of education, entertainment, and indulgence. Guests can sharpen their cooking skills, explore global cuisines, and connect with like-minded food lovers in a vibrant and welcoming setting. With events designed to suit a variety of tastes and interests, it celebrates not only the art of food and drink but also the dynamic cultural landscape of Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, a casual wine enthusiast, or someone looking for a family-friendly outing, the festival provides opportunities to learn, indulge, and give back. From the intimate settings of exclusive dinners to the lively atmosphere of signature events, the week promises an unforgettable journey through the flavours of Fort Lauderdale.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets for the festival are available now, with options ranging from individual classes and events to all-inclusive packages. The full schedule, including class descriptions, event details, and ticket pricing, can be found on the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival website.