The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival Returns For 2026

January 23, 2026

The flavor of South Florida is reaching its peak as the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival (VLFWF) returns for its seventh annual celebration. From January 19–25, 2026, Greater Fort Lauderdale transforms into a premier epicurean destination, blending high-energy beachside tastings with intimate, chef-led dining experiences.

This week-long festival isn’t just about eating; it’s a showcase of the creativity and community spirit that defines Broward County’s hospitality scene, all while supporting the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

The festival features a star-studded lineup of celebrity chefs, including Richard Blais, Eddie Jackson, and Nancy Fuller. Whether you’re a serious foodie or just looking for a fun weekend outing, there is an event for every palate:

The Grand Tasting (Jan 24): The festival’s crown jewel at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Enjoy unlimited bites from over 100 local restaurants, wineries, and craft breweries, alongside live culinary demos and music.
Wok ‘n Roll (Jan 22): A high-energy Asian street food experience at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, hosted by Chef Clarice Lam.
Beachside Brunch (Jan 25): Close out the week with a breezy Sunday morning spread hosted by Nancy Fuller and Eddie Jackson.
Dining Series & Classes: Throughout the week, local favorites like Heritage and MAASS host exclusive collaboration dinners, while hands-on classes teach everything from mixology to pasta making.

If you’re looking for something with a bit of smoke and soul, BBQ at the Beach is the place to be.

When: Friday, January 23, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park (80 Las Olas Circle)
Host: Food Network star Jason Smith, with special guest and 2025 BBQ Champion “Captain Ron” Dimpflmaier.
The Vibe: Pitmasters from legendary spots like Apocalypse BBQ, Soul & Smoke, and Swig & Swine fire up the smokers for an evening of fall-off-the-bone ribs, brisket, and wings set against a waterfront breeze.

With events centered around the beach and Las Olas, parking can be tricky. Here are your best bets:

Parking Spot	Location	Why It’s Best
Las Olas Beach Garage	200 Las Olas Circle	Top Pick. Modern, massive, and just steps from the Intracoastal Promenade Park. Use PayByPhone (Code: 82016).
Las Olas Intracoastal Lot	80 Las Olas Circle	Right at the BBQ venue, but fills up extremely early.
Las Olas Oceanside Park Lot	3000 E. Las Olas Blvd	Best for the Grand Tasting and Sunday Brunch.
BridgeSide Place Garage	3020 NE 32nd Ave	A great overflow option if the central beach lots are full.