A new buzz behind a traditional event is bringing area chefs, wine makers, and cocktail slingers to the Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival on October 25 and 26 at the downtown Marktplatz.
The traditional event was put on annually by the City of Fredericksburg, which was going to postpone it a year and plan out a new course. But the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce took over the event, partnering with Bevvy Group, and a new energy will see the “stars of bars” (and restaurants) will be the share their expertise.
“We are excited to highlight the incredible food and wine from our region, fostering prosperity and innovation in the Texas Hill Country,” says Jim Mikula, president of the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce.
The new event reflects the heart of the Texas wine country, and the 2024 fest will feature new branding, programming, and experiences. With over 20 culinary pop ups, 55 wineries, breweries, distilleries, and specialty activations, and with four badge tiers, the festival promises something for every palate.
Local chefs in Fredericksburg’s rising culinary scene will serve up peak Hill Country bites, along with hands-on culinary demonstrations by Jesse Griffiths, of Dai Due, and Michael Fojtasek and Justin Spencer, who will lead culinary direction at Junebug’s, part of the soon-to-open Albert Hotel in the heart of Main Street.
The fest is set up as a non-profit organization that celebrates, showcases and nurtures the region’s rich agricultural heritage, outstanding culinary experiences and award-winning wineries. Through their programs and events, they support charitable organizations in the Texas Hill Country, ensuring prosperity and innovation within the community.
Four badge tiers will be available, as follows:
• Locals-Only ($100): This discounted, locals-only badge is exclusively for attendees from the 78624 and surrounding ZIP codes and offers access to all general admission activities. (Others include 78631, 78636, 78671, 78675, 78606, 78635 and 78618.)
• General Admission ($150): Grants entry to over 20 culinary pop-ups, 50+ beer, wine, and spirits tastings, and access to the Heath Sparkling Garden, Joanna’s Market by Signor Vineyards popup culinary sundry shop, Allen’s Boots pop up, Burgers, Bourbon & Barbecue experience, El Quincho Asador Argentino and much more.
• VIP ($295): Limited-availability VIP tickets include GA benefits, plus private Augusta Vin lounge access, refreshments, food and wine pairings, extended time and early access to the event.
• Weekender ($595): Includes VIP amenities, plus a guaranteed seat at Friday night’s “The Street Dinner” and a seat at one of the culinary demo stage events.
Attendees can look forward to an array of activities and add-ons, including:
• The Street Dinner: Kick off the festival with an exclusive evening featuring gourmet cuisine from five local chefs, Texas Hill Country wine, local spirits and live music.
• Vino Vinyasa with Hye Thai: Start your morning off at Marktplatz with an all-levels yoga class followed by a wine tasting and bites from Hye Thai.
• The Fischer & Wieser Waterfront Brunch: Hosted at the picturesque Fischer & Wieser Farmstead, guests can savor brunch cocktails by Dietz Distillery and regional dishes with live music.
• Family Friendly Pasture to Palate at The Henning Lot: This free, family-friendly event provides access to OroBianco’s Water Buffalo Petting Area, plus gelato, fresh coffee by local favorite, Sure Shot, and breakfast tacos by Peeler Farms.
• Culinary & Craft Beverage Hands-On, Demo Stage Events at The Grand Tasting Event: Learn from the best as top chefs and mixologists from the region share their secrets and showcase their culinary and mixology skills.
For a complete list of events and to purchase tickets, visit the Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival website and follow on social media.
Social media: @fbgfoodandwine