Courtesy of Rafterman Photography
The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is returning to Historic Fourth Ward Park from September 12 through 15. This year, the theme is “Big Top Bazaar.” Expect an extra day of foodie fun (previous festivals were only three days long), now with a carnival twist. According to Sarah Robitaille, senior marketing associate of Team a21 which runs the festival, ticket sales have already surpassed records to date, so she recommends snagging yours online as soon as possible.
Highlights of the upcoming festivities include food by Nakato, Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ, La Semilla, Tyde Tate Kitchen, Bread & Butterfly, Zakia, and Tiny Lou’s, with beverages provided by Chateau Elan, Pata Negra Mezcaleria, and more. At least 40 chefs—both local and national—will participate each day with more non-alcoholic beverages being added to the mix. Chefs and mixologists will incorporate the “gourmet flavor fair” theme into their offerings, and festival partners will use the theme for their activations. “From photo ops to midway games, we’re elevating the fair with more foodie flair,” Robitaille explains.
In the past, tasting tents have been open on Saturday and Sunday during the day. This year, Saturday tasting tents will be at night only, and Friday night tickets will be available, too. “We are excited to bring a different vibe to Saturday,” Robitaille says. “There will be no shortage of bites and bevs!”
Details for intimate, ticketed dinners are still in the works, but at least four will feature Food Network stars and Michelin-recommended restaurants. Each will feature multiple courses and include wine and spirits pairings.
As always, Publix will conduct cooking demonstrations at the Tasting Tents. There will also be a new VIP tent with exclusive bites and beverages, as well as lounge seating for taking respite from the crowds.
Single-day tasting tent tickets cost $99 for general admission and $150 for VIP. Weekend passes are available for $325 and $465 for VIP. Prices will increase as the festival approaches.
