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Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival Returns with New Focus

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/18 .. e-food-wine-festival-returns-with-new-focus.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 3:01 GMT by Sun Sentinel

Fort Lauderdale, FL - January 18th, 2026 - The Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival, a cornerstone of Fort Lauderdale's cultural calendar, is returning this year with a renewed focus on showcasing local talent, broadening its appeal, and enhancing the overall attendee experience. While perennial favorites continue to draw crowds and sell out swiftly, organizers are actively promoting a curated selection of lesser-known events - "hidden gems" - that offer exceptional culinary and viticultural experiences away from the main festival bustle.

The 2026 festival represents a significant evolution for the event, moving beyond the traditional large-scale tastings and embracing a more diverse range of offerings. This shift is driven by a desire to highlight the rich tapestry of local producers, winemakers, and chefs that define the South Florida food scene. New partnerships with regional farms and vineyards are a key element of this evolution, resulting in unique and previously unavailable experiences for festival attendees.

"The Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival has always been about celebrating the region's culinary excellence," explains Eleanor Vance, festival director. "But this year, we're consciously working to expand that celebration, offering something for everyone, regardless of their level of experience or enthusiasm for the larger, more crowded events. We want to invite a wider audience to appreciate the nuanced beauty of South Florida's food and beverage landscape."

Beyond the Grand Tasting: Uncovering Hidden Gems

While the Grand Tasting remains a highlight for many, it's often the smaller, more intimate events that provide the most memorable moments. This year, a wealth of options remains available, catering to a variety of interests and budgets. These include a hands-on cheese and wine pairing event led by a local artisan cheesemaker, promising an in-depth exploration of complementary flavor profiles. Aspiring cooks can participate in a seafood cooking class led by a renowned chef, learning valuable techniques and insider tips. For a truly unique experience, a sunset wine cruise offers stunning views and expertly curated pairings.

These alternative events are designed to foster a more relaxed and personal atmosphere, allowing attendees to connect with producers and fellow enthusiasts on a deeper level. They represent a shift in the festival's philosophy - from a primarily spectator-driven event to one that encourages active participation and discovery.

Accessibility and Enhanced Experience

Recognizing the limitations of previous years' capacity and potential congestion, the festival organizers have implemented a new ticketing system. This system utilizes staggered entry times for popular events, drastically reducing crowding and creating a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for all attendees. The "Taste of Lauderdale" street fair, scheduled for the final weekend, offers a particularly accessible and casual option, providing a broad sampling of local cuisine and drinks in a lively, outdoor setting. This serves as a great alternative for those who missed out on the Grand Tasting or prefer a less formal experience.

"We've listened to feedback from previous years and are committed to ensuring the 2026 festival is the best one yet," Vance states. "It's about more than just great food and wine; it's about creating a positive and memorable experience for everyone involved."

Plan Your Experience

Don't miss out on the Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival! Visit [ https://www.lauderdaleFoodandWine.com ] to view the complete schedule, explore remaining ticket availability, and discover your own hidden gems within this year's expanded and refined program. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just beginning to explore the culinary delights of South Florida, there's something waiting for you at the Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival.