South Florida knows how to throw a party, but when food is the guest of honor, the celebration reaches another level. The Visit Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival lights up the region with a delicious mix of flavor, creativity, and personality.
The program brings together celebrity chefs, rising culinary stars, and curious food lovers ready to taste it all. Think intimate chef-driven dinners, vibrant tastings, bold wines, and hands-on workshops, all wrapped in a relaxed, coastal vibe that feels unmistakably Fort Lauderdale.
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When is Visit Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival 2026?
What sets this festival apart is its energy. This isn’t a stiff, white-tablecloth affair—it’s an immersive culinary playground where innovation meets fun. From outdoor waterfront tastings to interactive classes, the festival invites guests to explore the adventurous spirit of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene. Every event feels personal, curated, and full of surprises, making it easy to wander, sip, snack, and discover something new at every turn.
Wok ‘n Roll takes place on January 22 at Las Olas Promenade Park in Fort Lauderdale, offering a picturesque waterfront setting that perfectly complements the festival’s colorful, high-energy vibe. It’s the kind of evening where the food, music, and setting come together effortlessly—ideal for longtime festival fans and first-time visitors alike.
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Beyond the tastings, the festival continues to grow its reputation as a serious culinary destination. Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, said to Resident this year’s edition is the biggest yet, drawing chefs and food lovers from around the world. The spotlight shines on the incredible talent, flavors, and creativity that have helped position Greater Fort Lauderdale as a premier culinary hub, while still staying true to its laid-back, welcoming character.
This year’s Dinner Series raises the bar even higher with 10 unique dining experiences across the destination. From the traditional opening night dinner at Heritage to standout collaborations like Ukiah x Macchialina—a Japanese-Italian fusion by Chefs Michael Lewis and Michael Pirolo—or Calusso x Mamani, blending Italian-French cuisine with curated cocktails and desserts, every dinner promises something special.
With Michelin-recognized concepts and James Beard-nominated chefs in the mix, the Visit Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival proves once again that great food tastes even better when it’s paired with great vibes.
