Move over, Epcot. The annual St. Pete Wine & Food Festival returns next week with a fresh lineup of gourmet tasting experiences over five days.
Under white tents at downtown St. Pete's North Straub Park, the waterfront soirée kicks off with a sold-out wine dinner on Nov. 2, followed by three events local culinarians won't want to miss.
From 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Red Mesa is set to introduce crowds to the festival's newest event, Tacos & Tequila. The gathering will highlight an array of dreamy tacos, plus premium tequila and specialty cocktail offerings from Red Mesa Cantina's 400-plus selection. The final pour will take place at 9 p.m., and tickets cost $65.
Next up is BEER Night St. Pete. Planned between 4:30 and 9:30 p.m. Nov. 4, the craft beer celebration has more than 110 ciders and beers in store from local, regional and national breweries. BEER Night's all-inclusive food lineup will also come from area establishments. Ticket pricing starts at $65 for general admission.
Finally, the festival's signature Grand Tastings will commence from noon to 5 p.m. Nov. 5 and 6. The pair of curated sampling sessions will offer fine wine, eats from local restaurants and chefs, and complimentary cooking demos from a mix of chefs. Chef seminars begin at 2 p.m. both afternoons, and $94 tickets get guests general admission access.