11 Must-Visit Foodie Events this Fall
By Charlene Lazewski
As the temperatures cool and summer vacation season comes to an end, it's the perfect time to embark on a culinary adventure and explore the South's rich and diverse culinary culture. From lively weekend food festivals to one-day extravagant culinary events, there is an abundance of opportunities to connect with talented culinary professionals, indulge in their creations, and expand your understanding of the vital ingredients that define each location's culinary tapestry. Whether you envision a road trip to one of these destinations or prefer to support your local culinary community, be sure to spice up your fall calendar by attending one of these delectable culinary events. It's a chance to savor unique flavors, learn from skilled chefs, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary traditions of the South.
Chow Chow Food + Culture Festival —Asheville, North Carolina
September 7-10
Join the Celebration of Southern Appalachia's Rich Foodways at Chow Chow!
Mark your calendars for a weekend of delectable delights and gastronomic exploration as Chow Chow returns to Asheville for its fourth year. Immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture of Southern Appalachia through a series of culinary workshops, chef dinners, seminars, and signature events. This food-focused festival serves as a platform to celebrate the talented individuals who shape the region's rich foodways. As you explore various locations in Asheville, you'll connect with the terroir, uncover the secrets of local ingredients, and deepen your understanding of the community that anchors western North Carolina's culinary traditions. Chow Chow is not just a feast for the taste buds, but a celebration of heritage, innovation, and the undeniable allure of Southern Appalachian cuisine. Don't miss this unique opportunity to indulge your senses and embrace the essence of the region's culinary excellence.
euphoria — Greenville, South Carolina
September 14-17
Euphoria is a popular festival that is loved by both chefs and people attending events. It is coming back to downtown Greenville and everyone is excited. The festival lasts for four days and is all about enjoying food, drinks, and music. There are more than 50 different activities to choose from including guided tastings, cooking demonstrations, competitions, educational talks, and special dinners cooked by famous chefs. The festival has amazing smells and music that will make you feel happy and interested in everything around you. Euphoria is a place where you can have a great time and enjoy lots of delicious food.
Atlanta Food + Wine Festival
September 21-24
Come join over 200 chefs in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward for a four-day festival that will excite your taste buds and take you on a unique culinary journey. This extravagant food event offers a wide variety of flavors and cuisines through tasting tents, special dinners, and other events. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys good food, this festival will delight all your senses. The chefs' passion and creativity shine through in their expertly crafted and innovative dishes. Come celebrate Atlanta's vibrant food culture and experience the talents of culinary artists that will leave you wanting more.
Firebox: BBQ on the Bluff — St. Simons Island, Georgia
September 30
The Firebox Initiative Inc. is a great organization that helps service industry workers who have unexpected money problems. Every year they have a big event called Firebox. It happens at Gascoigne Bluff over the last weekend in September. Lots of famous barbecue chefs from the Southeast, like the Carolinas, Georgia, and the Gulf Coast, come together for this festival. At Firebox, people can enjoy lots of different types of barbecue, which makes it a special food experience. Firebox is not just about eating yummy barbecue though, it's also an important way to raise money and make people aware of the organization that helps service industry workers who need it the most.
BayHaven Food & Wine Festival — Charlotte, North Carolina
October 4-8
The BayHaven Food & Wine Festival celebrates Black experts in hospitality with delicious food, engaging symposiums, and multi-course dinners. It fosters education, awareness, and appreciation of Black food traditions.
The Gathering — Maryville, Tennessee
October 7-9
Simplify: Join food professionals in the beautiful Smoky Mountains for a weekend full of delicious meals, drink tastings, demonstrations, and discussions. The cozy and glamorous RT Lodge is thrilled to host this unique culinary experience. This special event will satisfy your taste buds and fuel your passion for food. Your ticket not only includes a stay at the charming lodge but also grants you access to all the carefully planned meals and activities for the weekend. This is the perfect opportunity to dive into the culinary world. Enjoy incredible meals, taste different drinks, watch demos by expert chefs, and participate in stimulating discussions. Don't miss out on this unforgettable weekend that combines stunning natural surroundings with the art of cooking.
FOOD+ — Birmingham, Alabama
October 12-15
Discover Birmingham's Food+ Weekend, a celebration of the city's thriving food scene. This exciting event invites food lovers to indulge in a variety of culinary experiences, including delicious seated dinners, mouthwatering brunches, and captivating chef demonstrations. Alongside these events, there are signature gatherings that showcase the rich food culture of Birmingham. One event not to be missed is Food+Fire, the highlight of the weekend. This amazing tailgate party brings together skilled pitmasters and chefs in a festive atmosphere filled with the irresistible smells of smoky meats. It represents Birmingham's culinary excellence by blending tradition with innovative flavors and techniques. As you explore this culinary wonderland, be ready to savor every dish and embrace the gastronomic delights on offer.
Whiskey After Dark — Charleston
October 19
Top whiskey brands bring their selection of 100+ premium whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches to Charleston, South Carolina. Held in the charming Cedar Room, this event offers a taste of Scotland, Kentucky, and more. Accompanying the whiskies are hors d'oeuvres and barbecue fixings created by talented chefs and pitmasters from the southeastern region. Join us in Charleston for an unforgettable celebration of these iconic spirits.
Amelia Island Cookout — Amelia Island, Florida
October 21
Come join us for a three-day event at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel. You'll have the chance to enjoy amazing food in a beautiful location. The event takes place on a barrier island in North Florida and features the local cuisine. The chef in charge is Okan Kizilbayir, who has trained with top chefs. You'll also get to meet other famous chefs like Dylan Benoit, John Tesar, Jae Jung, and David Hsu, as well as sommelier Michael Kennedy. There will be collaborative dinners, fun demonstrations, and guided food and drink pairings. Don't miss out on this incredible culinary experience!
Crafted — Alys Beach, Florida
October 26-28
Join us for a weekend that showcases the collaborative efforts in the craft beverage industry, art, and culinary professions. Immerse yourself in a fantastic four-day festival filled with creativity and passion. From expert storytellers to skilled distillers and mixologists, every part of this event celebrates the skill and collaboration of individuals. At the Maker's Market, you can find a wide range of handmade goods and unique creations. Attend beverage seminars where experts share their knowledge and explore the art of brewing and distilling. And make sure not to miss the final Spirited Soirée, where music creates a wonderful atmosphere for an evening of delicious food and drinks. Best of all, by attending, you'll be supporting the local organization, Cultural Arts Alliance. All proceeds from this event go toward nurturing and promoting the vibrant arts and culture in our community.
Heritage Fire —Miami/Charleston
November 12
Join us for a one-of-a-kind food event as the highly anticipated multi-destination live fire tasting tour travels to 14 cities in 2023. On November 12, Miami will host this culinary extravaganza, followed by Charleston on December 10. Experience the irresistible aroma of delicious smoked and grilled dishes prepared by more than 20 talented and creative chefs. You can even join as a judge and help decide the winner of the "Best Bite of the Day" award. Don't miss this chance to treat your taste buds and dive into a memorable food adventure.