Greater Fort Lauderdale once again becomes the gastronomic epicenter of South Florida with the return of the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival (VLFWF), taking place January 19–25, 2026. Now in its seventh edition, the festival promises a full week dedicated to fine dining, wine, craft beer, and spirits, set against a privileged backdrop where sunshine, beaches, and culinary creativity come together seamlessly.

For seven days, the city transforms into a true playground for food lovers. Beachfront tastings, culinary competitions, intimate chef-led dinners, hands-on classes, and immersive sensory experiences shape a diverse agenda that reflects the energy and culinary identity of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Culinary and Television Stars

The 2026 edition will feature an outstanding lineup of celebrity chefs, including Richard Blais (winner of Top Chef: All-Stars), Eddie Jackson (former NFL player and Food Network personality), Nancy Fuller (Farmhouse Rules), Jason Smith (winner of Holiday Baking Championship and Food Network Star), Clarice Lam (2022 James Beard semifinalist), and popular BBQ pitmaster Captain Ron Dimpflmaier.

Each chef brings a unique style and vision, inviting guests to explore techniques, ingredients, and the passion that drives their cuisine.

Dining for a Cause

As in every edition, the festival reinforces its philanthropic commitment, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, one of South Florida’s leading pediatric hospitals—proving that great food can also make a meaningful impact on the community.

A Feast for the Senses

VLFWF 2026 offers a dynamic and inclusive program:

• Classes and Seminars (January 20–23): Hands-on experiences including cooking classes, guided tastings, mixology sessions, wellness activities, and family-friendly workshops—from pizza and beer pairings to yoga with culinary experiences.
• #VLFWF Dining Series (January 20–22): Exclusive, intimate dinners pairing South Florida’s rising culinary talent with renowned guest chefs from around the world.
• Wok ’n Roll (January 22): A high-energy Asian street food experience with live music, curated by chefs Alex Kuk and Diego Ng and hosted by Clarice Lam.
• BBQ at the Beach (January 23): Smoked meats, ocean breezes, and a festive atmosphere, hosted by Jason Smith.
• The Grand Tasting (January 24): The festival’s flagship event, featuring unlimited beachfront tastings, live music, and culinary demonstrations.
• Beachside Brunch (January 25): A relaxed and celebratory oceanfront brunch hosted by Nancy Fuller.
• Picnic in the Park (January 25): A free, family-friendly finale with food trucks, kids’ activities, and live entertainment.

Easy Access to the Destination

Getting to the festival is easy thanks to Delta Air Lines, the official airline partner, offering daily flights from hundreds of cities to Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport. B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale will serve as the festival’s headquarters hotel, alongside partner properties such as Bahia Mar, Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale, and Omni Fort Lauderdale.

Blending gastronomy, beach culture, creativity, and social responsibility, the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival 2026 stands out as one of the must-attend gourmet events on the U.S. culinary calendar.