Kickoff Dinner
2025-04-22 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Tuesday, April 22, 6-9 pm
Kickoff Dinner
Black Rooster @ 201 Meeting St. West Columbia
Kick off the Columbia Food & Wine Festival like an Italian!
The team at Black Rooster is thrilled to welcome Denver chef Paul Reilly, a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist, for an unforgettable evening of Italian cocktails, wines, and culinary delights. Chef Reilly, known for his acclaimed Italian hotspot Coperta, joins Kristian Niemi and Mason Hatcher of Black Rooster for this collaborative multi-course dinner with drinks from Gallo Wine and Spirits.
Begin the evening with a truly Italian aperitivo hour on the rooftop, offering stunning views of the rivers and cityscape. Then, indulge in a carefully crafted multi-course wine dinner in the dining room, followed by a sweet finish with Italian desserts and after-dinner cocktails back on the rooftop.
This is an evening to remember!
Not only will this kickoff dinner celebrate authentic Italian flavors, but it’s also a rare opportunity to meet the culinary masterminds behind these dishes and learn about the skills and creativity that elevate Columbia’s dynamic food culture. The night will set the stage for the exciting journey ahead, offering a glimpse into the community spirit, artistry, and talent that define the festival.
Seats are limited for this exclusive event, ensuring an intimate and engaging dining experience. Don’t miss your chance to join us as we begin a week of flavors, connections, and unforgettable experiences.

Knead to Know: Breadmaking 101
2025-04-23 18:00 - 21:00
Wednesday, April 23, 6-9 pm
Knead to Know: Breadmaking 101
The Proof @ 2001 Greene Street, Columbia
Get your hands doughy and your wine glass full at Knead to Know: Breadmaking 101 on Wednesday, April 23 from 6-9 pm! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this hands-on class with the experts from Our Daily Bread SC will teach you the essential techniques for making delicious, homemade pizza dough. Discover the do’s and don’ts of breadmaking while sipping on delicious wines and enjoying a delectable spread from Abundant Graze at The Proof (near Claussen’s in Five Points).
Throughout the evening, you’ll learn how to craft the perfect dough, understand the science behind it, and enjoy your own creation. This interactive experience is the perfect way to connect with friends, discover a new hobby, and indulge in local flavors.
Join us for a fun, educational evening of breadmaking and great company—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Collaborative Kitchen @ Hampton Street Vineyard - SOLD OUT
2025-04-23 18:00 - 21:00
Wednesday, April 23, 6 -9 pm
Collaborative Kitchen @ Hampton Street Vineyard
Hampton Street Vineyard @ 1207 Hampton St, Columbia, SC
Transport yourself to the French countryside with a collaborative French-themed dinner at Hampton Street Vineyard on Wednesday, April 23, from 6-8 pm. Executive Chef Wes Fulmer of Hampton Street Vineyard joins forces with Polina Burns, representing the prestigious Trimbach Winery of Alsace, France, to offer an unforgettable evening of exquisite French cuisine and world-class wines.
This exclusive dinner will feature a curated multi-course menu that celebrates the best of French culinary traditions, from rich, savory dishes to delicate desserts. Each course will be expertly paired with wines from Trimbach Winery, one of the oldest and most renowned wineries in the world, with Polina Burns present to share insights and stories behind the wines.
Enjoy a cozy, intimate setting as you indulge in the flavors of France and connect with fellow food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply love great food, this evening promises to be an unforgettable experience celebrating the artistry of French cuisine and exceptional wine pairings.

Collaborative Kitchen @ Goats
2025-04-23 18:00 - 21:00
Wednesday, April 23
Collaborative Kitchen @ Goats
Goats @ 2017 Devine St, Columbia, SC

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at Goats, Columbia’s cherished wine and craft cocktail bar, on Wednesday, April 23, from 6:30-8:30 pm. Goats is teaming up with renowned winemaker Phil Long of Longevity Wines for a collaborative dinner that blends exceptional food with deeply personal storytelling.
As the chefs at Goats prepare each course with care and passion, Phil Long will take guests on a journey through his wines, sharing the story of how his love and life experiences inspired the creation of Longevity Wines. Each wine will be perfectly paired with the dishes, highlighting the connections between the flavors in the food and the stories behind the wines.
This intimate, engaging evening is a celebration of not only incredible food and wine but also the passion and personal history that goes into crafting something truly special. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply enjoy a great culinary experience, this dinner is one you won’t want to miss.

Vino & Vinyl - SOLD OUT
2025-04-24 18:00 - 20:30
Thursday, April 24, 6-8:30 pm
Vino & Vinyl
Lula Drake Wine Parlour @1635 Main Street, Columbia
Sponsored by Main Street District
Experience Vino & Vinyl at Lula Drake Wine Parlour, a James Beard Award-winning gem in the heart of Columbia, on Thursday, April 24, from 6-8:30 pm. This event brings together the best of wine, food, and music for a truly unique experience. Guests will enjoy engaging wine from Mission Grape discussions paired with a delicious four-course prix-fixe menu.
Local DJ Preach Jacobs will set the mood with his curated musical selection, creating the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable evening. Sponsored by Main Street District, Vino & Vinyl is a celebration of Columbia’s culinary excellence, and an evening that blends taste, sound, and community in an intimate, stylish venue.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a fan of great music, or simply looking for a memorable night out, Vino & Vinyl at Lula Drake promises to be one of the festival’s standout events.

Palates and Pages
2025-04-24 18:00 - 20:30
Thursday, April 24, 6-8:30 pm
Palates and Pages
All Good Books @ 734 Harden Street, Columbia
Sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina
Join us for a delightful evening of southern hospitality at Palates and Pages at All Good Books on Thursday, April 24, from 6-8:30 pm. Sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, this unique event celebrates the flavors and stories of the South with Mary Martha Greene, the Cheese Biscuit Queen, and author Kelvin Davis, award nominated author of Notoriously Dapper. Together, they’ll entertain and inspire with humorous stories, engaging conversation, and a selection of mouthwatering bites that showcase the heart of Southern cuisine.
Thomas Hardenbergh, Chef at Motor Supply Bistro, will join in the fun by presenting recipes from Greene’s beloved cookbook alongside some of his own signature culinary creations. As guests enjoy the delicious food and lively atmosphere, they’ll also have the opportunity to connect with fellow food enthusiasts, enjoy the charm of All Good Books, and take in the rich stories behind the dishes that define Southern hospitality.
This evening promises to be a celebration of great food, great company, and the traditions that make Southern cuisine so special. It’s a perfect way to experience the warmth and joy of Columbia’s food culture—don’t miss it!

Collaborative Kitchen @ Smoked
2025-04-24 19:00 - 21:00
Collaborative Kitchen @ Smoked
Smoked @1643 Main Street, Columbia
Step into Smoked on Thursday, April 24, from 7-9 pm for a Collaborative Kitchen experience that highlights the very best of Columbia’s dining scene. This evening will take you on an inspired culinary journey, featuring elevated techniques and bold, innovative flavors from Chef Tim McCloskey of Smoked.
Each dish will be expertly paired with decadent wines and spirits, enhancing every bite and sip. The night will also feature cocktail collaborations with Gabe King of Hendrix Restaurant, ensuring a perfect balance of drinks to complement the dishes. The event will be led by Greg Williamson, the Beverage Director, whose expertise will further elevate the tasting experience.
The wines, provided by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, will be thoughtfully selected to pair with the innovative flavors on the plate, offering a perfect marriage of food, drink, and passion for the progression of Columbia’s culinary landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply someone who loves to explore new flavors, this event promises an unforgettable evening of refinement, excitement, and a deeper appreciation for the evolving food scene in Columbia. Don’t miss this celebration of food, wine, and culinary artistry at Smoked!

Collaborative Kitchen @ Ikie Lu
2025-04-24 19:00 - 21:00
Collaborative Kitchen @ Ikie Lu
Ikie lu @ 601 North Lucas West Columbia
Step into Ikie Lu Record Club for a Collaborative Kitchen experience like no other on Thursday, April 24, from 7-9 pm. This special preview event celebrates Columbia’s newest cocktail hot spot and listening room with a focus on Champagne and Oysters—the perfect pairing to kick off an unforgettable evening.
Sip on exquisite Grower Champagnes and indulge in specialty cocktails, expertly crafted to complement gourmet treats and delightful culinary creations. Guest chefs Claudia Martinez (Tiny Lou, Cafe Claudia, Miller Union) and Conner Hinderks (Maypop, Little Secret) will bring their renowned skills to the table, offering a selection of dishes that will leave your taste buds craving more.
The Collaborative Kitchen @ Ikie Lu offers the perfect blend of indulgence, discovery, and culinary excellence. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy delicious food, innovative drinks, and the vibrant atmosphere of Ikie Lu Record Club—a new venue that’s already setting the tone for unforgettable nights in Columbia.

Soul of the South, A Gullah Experience
2025-04-25 18:00 - 21:00
Friday, April 25, 6-9 pm
Soul of the South, A Gullah Experience
*The Farm 1780 @ 1127 Corley Mill Road, Lexington
Sponsored by South Carolina Department of Agriculture

Step into the heart of Gullah culinary traditions at Soul of the South, A Gullah Experience on Friday, April 25, from 6-9 pm at The Farm 1780 in Lexington. This exclusive dinner brings together SC Chef Ambassador Chris Williams, Foodways Expert Amethyst Ganaway, and Chef Instructor Kevin Mitchell from the Culinary Institute of Charleston to celebrate the deep influence of Gullah roots on Southern cooking.
Throughout the evening, guests will experience a beautifully crafted menu that highlights the rich history and flavors of the Gullah culture, from locally sourced ingredients to traditional cooking techniques. Each dish will tell a story of the region’s foodways, showcasing how Gullah culinary traditions have shaped Southern cuisine today.
In an intimate, rustic setting at The Farm 1780, this event offers not only an incredible dinner but also a unique cultural experience that connects guests to the rich heritage of the South. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavors and stories of the Gullah culture.

Collaborative Kitchen @ Spring Valley Country Club
2025-04-25 18:30 - 20:30
Friday, April 25, 6:30pm
Collaborative Kitchen @ Spring Valley Country Club
Spring Valley Country Club @ 300 Spring Valley Rd, Columbia, SC
On Friday, April 25, at 6:30 pm, step into the exclusive Spring Valley Country Club for a Collaborative Kitchen dinner with Chef Jason Bruner. Chef Bruner will create a one-of-a-kind dining experience, preparing each course with the finest local and seasonal ingredients. Every dish will be thoughtfully paired with wines from David Paige Wines, adding a unique layer of flavor to the evening.
What makes this experience even more special? David Paige, the talented winemaker behind these exceptional wines, will be joining us all the way from his vineyards in Willamette Valley, Oregon. As you savor each course, David will share his winemaking process, telling you the story behind each glass of wine and how it enhances the culinary experience.
This intimate and unforgettable dinner promises to be a true celebration of seasonal ingredients, fine wines, and expert craftsmanship. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to enjoy great food, great wine, and inspiring stories—all in the beautiful setting of Spring Valley Country Club.

The Cocktail Games
2025-04-25 19:00 - 22:00
Friday, April 25, 7-10 pm
The Cocktail Games
The Laundry@ 2046 Talley Street, Columbia
Sponsored by Big Dan’s Car Wash
Join us for The Cocktail Games at The Laundry on Friday, April 25, from 7-10 pm—the ultimate mixology showdown where the region’s top bartenders compete for the prestigious title of “Mixologist of the Year.” Sponsored by Big Dan’s Car Wash, this exciting event will showcase the creativity and skill of local mixologists, each crafting their signature cocktails to impress the judges and the crowd.
As the competition heats up, enjoy delectable food from some of Columbia’s finest restaurants, including Boku, Market on Main, Ratio, The Hollow, Tupelo Honey, and War Mouth. Each bite is thoughtfully paired with the cocktails, creating a dynamic tasting experience that complements the artistry of the drinks.
Set in the lively and vibrant atmosphere of The Laundry, this event promises to be a night of flavor, fun, and friendly rivalry. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply looking for a great night out, The Cocktail Games is an evening you won’t want to miss.

Ping Pong & Pasta
2025-04-26 13:00 - 17:00
Saturday, April 26
Ping Pong & Pasta
St Andrews Park @ 920 Beatty Road, Columbia
Get ready for Ping Pong & Pasta at St. Andrews Park on Saturday, April 26—a fun-filled event where friendly competition and delicious food come together! In collaboration with Carolina Pong, this round-robin ping pong tournament gives you the chance to show off your skills or cheer on your favorite players. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to have fun, there’s something for everyone.
While the action heats up on the tables, enjoy a mouthwatering pasta dish from Villa Tronco and sip on refreshing nonalcoholic beverages. Prizes will be awarded to the top three players, so bring your A-game! This event is the perfect mix of friendly rivalry, great food, and a strong sense of community.
Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind event that brings together the excitement of sports and the joy of sharing a meal. Get your tickets now and join us for a day of fun and flavor at Ping Pong & Pasta!

ColaFEST!
2025-04-26 14:00 - 18:00
Saturday, April 26, 2-6 pm
ColaFEST!
*Runway 728 @ 728 S Edisto Avenue, Columbia, SC
Get ready for the ultimate celebration of Columbia’s music, brews, and community at ColaFEST on Saturday, April 26, from 2-6 pm at Runway 728 in Rosewood! This exciting new event from the Columbia Food & Wine Festival brings together the best of Columbia’s musical talent and local craft breweries for an unforgettable afternoon.
Enjoy live performances from Marshall Brown and Opus & the Frequencies, two of Columbia’s most dynamic local acts, as you sip on brews from Angry Fish Brewing Co, Bierkeller Brewing, Columbia Craft, Hazelwood Brewing Co, Savage Craft Ale Works, and Steel Hands Brewing. Break out your Coachella-inspired best and get ready to dance, connect, and enjoy an afternoon filled with great music and even better company.
In addition to the live tunes and local craft beers, you’ll have access to festival activities and cocktails – it’s all included in the ticket price! A variety of local food trucks will be available for purchase, so come ready to enjoy a fun-filled celebration of Soda City’s best!
Don’t miss out on this exciting event that showcases the heart of Columbia—get your tickets for ColaFEST today!

BubbleQ
2025-04-26 18:00 - 21:00
Saturday, April 26, 6-9 pm
BubbleQ
City Roots @ 1005 Airport Boulevard Columbia
Sponsored by Sculpted by WH Aesthetics

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience at BubbleQ on Saturday, April 26, from 6-9 pm at City Roots, Columbia’s premier urban farm. Sponsored by Sculpted by WH Aesthetics, BubbleQ brings together the smoky, savory magic of BBQ and the effervescent charm of Champagne and sparkling wines in a one-of-a-kind celebration.
Indulge in a variety of mouthwatering BBQ dishes crafted by some of Columbia’s most talented chefs, including Kristian Niemi (Bourbon, Black Rooster, The Dragon Room), Wes Fulmer (Hampton Street Vineyard), and Dante Serra (The Hollow). These BBQ creations—ranging from slow-smoked meats to inventive plant-based options—highlight the best of South Carolina’s local bounty, prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Stoney Creek Cigars will be on-site selling hand-rolled cigars.
Each dish will be perfectly paired with a curated selection of Champagne and sparkling wines from renowned vineyards around the world, elevating the flavors and adding a touch of celebration to each bite. As you savor each pairing, groove to live music performed by local musicians, setting the perfect rhythm for this vibrant evening.
BubbleQ is more than just an event—it’s an immersive, farm-to-table experience set in the rustic elegance of City Roots, offering a beautiful setting to enjoy good food, great company, and the best of South Carolina’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast, a Champagne connoisseur, or just looking to enjoy a unique culinary adventure, BubbleQ is the perfect way to experience the fusion of bold flavors and bubbles.
Don’t miss this festive fusion—get your tickets now for a night of smoky delight and bubbly charm!

Grand Tasting - Sold Out of VIP & Early Access
2025-04-27 12:00 - 16:00
Sunday, April 27, 12-4 pm
Grand Tasting
Robert Mills House and Gardens @ 1616 Blanding Street, Columbia
Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens @ 1615 Blanding Street, Columbia

The Grand Tasting is the grand finale of the Columbia Food and Wine Festival, inviting you to experience the best of Columbia’s culinary scene. Set against the historic Robert Mills Estate and Hampton Preston Mansion, this event promises a vibrant afternoon celebrating local flavors.
Over 100 of Columbia’s top restaurants, breweries, mixologists, and culinary artisans come together to present an array of innovative dishes, farm-to-table cocktails, craft brews, and much more. The historic gardens will come alive with the sights and sounds of live music as you enjoy live chef demonstrations, explore artisan pop-up shops, and immerse yourself in the rich culinary culture of the region.
For VIP and Early Access guests, the gates open at noon, giving you an exclusive hour to enjoy the serene gardens and sip on the first of many culinary delights that await. Join us for an afternoon that promises to be the highlight of the festival and a true celebration of Columbia’s local food scene.

Kickoff Dinner
2026-04-22 18:00 - 21:00 | Hendrix
The festival begins with a showstopping seated dinner that sets the standard for the week ahead, bringing together some of the region’s most celebrated chefs for one unforgettable night. Guests will journey through four distinct levels of the historic 1649 Main St. building. Hendrix, the new Black Dog Pizza and Dorsia Pasta Co — experiencing a progressive menu designed to delight at every turn. Hendrix executive chef Frank Bradley will join forces with an all-star lineup of local talent, including Alex Strickland (Dragon Room), Anthea Douglas (Hendrix), Harold Pendleton (War Mouth), Joe Lytle (Black Dog Pizza), and Pierce Bowers (Dorsia Pasta Co).

The Collections Served: A Curated Dinner
2026-04-23 17:30 - 21:30 | Hampton Street Vineyard
The Collections Served invites guests to savor the intersection of art, wine, and cuisine through an immersive evening inspired by the Columbia Museum of Art’s newly reimagined collection galleries. The night begins with a cocktail hour and brief guided tour through the newly reopened CMA galleries, where guests will view select works from the museum’s four collecting areas — European, Asian, American, and modern and contemporary art — each serving as creative inspiration for the menu to come. Guests then stroll across the street to Hampton Street Vineyard for a seated four-course dinner, with each course thoughtfully crafted to reflect a piece from the collection. Executive Chef Wes Fulmer of Hampton Street Vineyard will collaborate with Chef Kevin Minnick (Quincy Country Club) to bring this artistic dialogue to the table, pairing thoughtful cuisine and wine in a relaxed yet refined setting.

Cocktail Games
2026-04-23 18:00 - 21:00 | Gather COLA
A fan favorite returns with the Cocktail Games, an energetic cocktail competition hosted this year at the newly opened Gather COLA in the BullStreet District. Watch top mixologists from near and far go head-to-head as they showcase creativity, technique, and showmanship in pursuit of the coveted title “CFWF Mixologist of the Year.” With a panel of judges calling the shots and expertly crafted bites from Bessie’s Burgers and Big Easy Seafood Co, this spirited evening delivers high-stakes competition and plenty of reasons to sip, savor, and cheer.

Bites Around the Block
2026-04-23 18:00 - 21:00 | Multiple locations between Elmwood and River Drive
Bites Around the Block is a food crawl in Uptown Columbia — the eclectic little neighborhood north of Elmwood. With bites and sips from A Peace of Soul Vegan Kitchen, Curiosity Coffee Bar, Indah Coffee, Noma Bistro, Peak Drift Brewing Company, Rambo’s Fat Cat Biscuits, Something Small Catering, The Vino Garage, and The War Mouth. Plus stops at The Dens by Hotel Trundle and Gardener’s Outpost with tunes from Prettier Than Matt.

High Tea & Tutus
2026-04-24 15:00 - 18:00 | Mansion on Blanding
A ballet-inspired high tea experience that reimagines traditional afternoon tea through immersive design, theatrical performance, and elevated culinary presentation from restaurants like Abundant Graze, Ally & Eloise, B.MAC Bakeshop, COA, Nibl Dessert & Cafe, Our Daily Bread. Blending classic elegance with playful excess, guests will enjoy a refined tea service set amid Rococo-inspired details, as South Carolina Ballet transforms the space with a special performance. Historic surroundings become a living stage where food, movement, and art converge — indulgent, whimsical, and unmistakably theatrical.

A Reconstruction Dinner
2026-04-24 18:00 - 20:00 | The Museum of the Reconstruction Era at the Woodrow Wilson Family Home
Hosted at Historic Columbia’s Museum of the Reconstruction Era at the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, this intimate dinner invites guests to experience how place, history, and food intersect. In partnership with Discover South Carolina, the evening begins with a welcome cocktail from Bublee Mixologist Eboni Page followed by a seated, three-course dinner with wine pairings, prepared by SC Chef Ambassadors Chris Williams (Roy’s Grille), Darren Smith (Rivertown Bistro; Bonfire A Smokin’ Taqueria), Javier Uriarte (Woodcreek Club), Jessica Shillato (Spotted Salamander), and Sarah McClure (Southside Smokehouse & Grille). Drawing inspiration from the site itself, each chef brings their own perspective to a shared table—using food as a lens to reflect on resilience, tradition, and the evolving story of Southern cuisine.

Viva Las Bourbon!
2026-04-24 18:30 - 21:30 | Bourbon
When whiskey meets wagyu and the King takes the mic, it can only be Viva Las Bourbon! Set in the Courtyard at Bourbon, this intimate evening kicks off with a cocktail reception and passed bites, then rolls into a three-course meal by Chef/Owner Kristian Niemi (Black Rooster, Bourbon, Dragon Room) and Chef de Cuisine Cody Cable (Bourbon) and Guest Chef Shawn “Radar” Burnette (“Chateau de Merveilles”/ #knowyourfarmer movement), featuring Mishima Reserve American Wagyu. Guests will sip and savor a guided tasting of Heaven Hill whiskeys — including Bourbon’s latest Larceny barrel pick — alongside thoughtfully crafted whiskey cocktails throughout the night. Live music by the Capital City Playboys, featuring Patrick Baxley as Elvis, brings full Las Vegas energy — stylish, soulful, and a hunka hunka burnin’ love!

Cheese Rave: A Curd Collective
2026-04-24 21:00 - 2026-04-25 00:00 | Undisclosed location, to be shared with ticket buyers just before the event
Where dopamine-inducing cheese meets banging beats, The Cheese Rave: A Curd Collective promises a melty mashup pairing electronic music genres with complementary cheese families to create a multi-sensory journey through sound, flavor, and atmosphere. The event unfolds progressively over the evening, with multiple DJs, lighting, and cheese selections evolving in sync together through six curated chapters. Stay energized through tastings from favorites like Clemson Blue, Enzos, Market on Main, Rosewood Market, Scott Hall Catering, Village Idiot Pizza and cocktail pairings from acclaimed mixologists like 929 Kitchen & Bar and MOA Korean BBQ & Bar. From house music paired with soft-ripened cheeses to a techno room with hard cheeses and beyond, this will be a deliciously weird night out.

Taste The Rainbow
2026-04-25 11:00 - 14:00 | The Big Apple
Taste the Rainbow: Drag Brunch is a fierce feast featuring big energy, bold colors, and delicious bites for one over-the-top experience. A colorful lineup of dishes and drinks—each inspired by a different hue of the spectrum—showcases beloved brunch spots like Café Strudel, Market on Main, Motor Supply Co. Bistro, Our Daily Bread, Sakhar Jams and Za’s on Devine. Slaying the stage is a multi-queen drag performance, hosted by Paris Lefaris, set to the beats of DJ Lonzo. Expect big personalities, dazzling visuals, and an inclusive, unapologetically fun atmosphere that invites guests to celebrate community, creativity, and color.

Bunaroo
2026-04-25 13:00 - 16:00 | Finlay Park
Bunaroo brings together Columbia’s top chefs for a gourmet spin on the humble bun — from craft sliders and bao buns to brioche sandwiches and lobster rolls. This walk-around tasting highlights inventive takes from restaurants including Dragon Room, Guy’s Hotdogs, Hall’s Columbia, Side Car Sams, and The Yard. With live music, flowing drinks, and a dog-friendly setting, guests (and their pups) are invited to snack, sip, and soak up the good vibes at this feel-good celebration of flavor, community, and comfort food done right.

Chef Secrets: An Empanada and Salsa Workshop
2026-04-25 15:00 - 17:00 | Savage Craft
Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on culinary classroom led by Chef Javier Uriarte (Woodcreek Club) and Chef David Grillo (Boca Grande). In this interactive experience, guests will learn the art of crafting empanadas from scratch — from mixing and rolling the dough to filling and folding with confidence. Along the way, guests will enjoy small bites while the chefs share their approach to building vibrant salsas, exploring flavor, balance, and heat. Come ready to cook, taste, and learn as you unlock chef secrets you’ll want to take back to your own kitchen.

Smoke on the Water
2026-04-25 16:00 - 18:00 | Putnam Harbor
A one-of-a-kind lakeside celebration set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Murray at Putnam’s Harbor, this premium event brings together some of the South’s most respected names in barbecue for an afternoon rooted in fire, flavor, and fellowship. Guests will enjoy a custom protein collaboration from James Beard Award finalist Robbie Robinson (City Limits) andJames Beard Award winner Rodney Scott (Rodney Scott’s BBQ), alongside crave-worthy bites from beloved local BBQ joints. Adding to the experience, legendary pitmaster Myron Mixon (Myron Mixon’s BBQ) will take part in a live Q&A, sharing stories, techniques, and hard-earned wisdom from decades at the pit. Live music, a curated beer garden, and sweeping waterfront views round out the afternoon — creating a laid-back yet elevated gathering that celebrates the craft, culture, and community behind great barbecue.

Grand Tasting
2026-04-26 13:00 - 16:00 | Hampton-Preston Mansion and Robert Mills House
The festival’s finale, the Grand Tasting, will be hosted across two Historic Columbia properties — Robert Mills House and Gardens and Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens. Enjoy an afternoon of local flavors with over 100 top restaurants, breweries, mixologists and culinary artisans. Indulge in innovative dishes, craft brews and farm-to-table cocktails, all set to live music and chef demonstrations. VIP and Early Access ticket holders can enjoy an extra hour of culinary exploration with entry at noon.
