Food and wine festivals are in our DNA. Some of our famous theme parks host incredibly well-known culinary festivals. We’ve got a great dose of James Beard nominated and awarded chefs managing the menus at local restaurants as well as nationally celebrated chefs leaving their mark in Orlando. This influence inspires up-and-coming chefs, and we completely enjoy celebrating all the rising talent and sampling what creations they call their own.
12th Downtown Food & Wine Fest
This relatively young festival has all the main ingredients expected: drinks, food, and live music. Last year’s festival featured wine from the August Wine Group, Bread & Butter, Lobetia, Relax Wines, Chloe Wine collection, Bass Note Artisanal Sangria, Myx & Fusion Mingle, and Foley Family Wines. Exact dates for this year’s event have yet to be determined at the time of writing, so check back with us as the month nears.
No Theme Park Admission
The more famous festivals the theme parks host require you to purchase entry to the theme park in order to participate in the festival, but not this one. You can purchase your tickets online or buy an entry pass ($20) at the door. You’ll need to purchase more tickets which you trade for 2 oz. samples of wines. If you know you’ll be sampling many wines, lanyards good for five 2 oz. samples are sold in place of tickets. Tickets for food are also available for purchase.
Food that Goes Good with Wine
Speaking of food, the roster of restaurants attending the 11th Downtown Food & Wine Fest ranged from dessert and coffee bars and global cuisine from Indian, Japan, and Brazil, to local Floridian fare that highlight the distinct flavors of the Sunshine State. You’re sure to find a dish that strikes your fancy, whether you’re pairing it with your wine or looking to try a new cuisine.
More than Just Wine
Maybe wine isn’t on your mind. Maybe you’re thirsty for something different. No worries, vendors have a drink for everyone. For those in the mood for beer, you’ll find classic favorites such as Stella Artois. Last year, those looking for something harder found Devil’s River Bourbon Whiskey and several mixologists stocked with the ingredients to whip up a tasty cocktail.
Live Music
Festival needs live music to keep the energy and spirits high. Audience’s at the 2019 festival were rocked by the popular 90s band Everclear; The Strumbellas, a fun and modern indie band with a lovely upbeat sound; The Spazmatics, a super-wild 80s cover band; and then were wooed by the soulful beats, introspective and deep lyrics, and impressive vocal range of Just Loud. Other local acts shared the stage rounding out the days of the fest with a variety of music second only to the varietals of grapes at the fest.
Where to Stay?
Eating, drinking, and dancing take energy, so stay some place close and comfy. Rosen Inn International provides a perfect place to rest after a full day of exploring the theme parks and local Orlando festivals. Bonus: We’re a short rideshare away from downtown. Click the Check Availability button on this page to start booking your room. Once you’re here in Orlando, there will be so much to do. If you need more suggestions, check in with us at the front desk or check out the Theme Park and Central Florida Events page for a current list of major events.
