In April, one of the Hill Country’s longest-running culinary gatherings promised to be a blast, and now the Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival is living up to those expectations: On Aug. 20, organizers announced an all-star lineup for the event, which returns Oct. 25 and 26, including some very big names from Austin.
With 22 chefs, 35 wineries and 14 breweries and distilleries, the list reflects the city’s growing popularity as a food and drink destination: While the city has long been known for its Southern, Tex-Mex and barbecue cuisine, this year’s participants showcase a variety of cuisines from around the world.
The demo stage shows that interest in Fredericksburg reaches far beyond Wine Road 290. Local favorites like Becker Vineyards and Chase Place will be featured, along with some well-known Austin chefs: Michael Fojtasek and Justin Spencer, who will soon be opening Junebugs in the city, plus Jesse Griffith of Die Due and Antonelli’s Cheese.
Local Hill Country highlights include Southwestern standard-bearer Hill & Vine, charming Hye Thai in Stonewall, small-batch Italian ice specialist Piccolina, and casual seafood spot Mystic Lobster Roll Company, along with a staple Fischer & Weiser.
“This year’s festival is set to be our most immersive and engaging yet, with an array of innovative and captivating experiences to delight your taste buds,” festival producer Hayley Wakefield said in a release.
Other event highlights include a VIP lounge curated by Augusta Vine, Heath’s Sparkling Wine Garden and Joanna’s Market, a unique shopping and dining fusion at Signor Vineyards. Revel Kitchen + Catering will be turning up the heat with their live fire kitchen, El Quincho Asador Argentino.
Festival badges are on sale now, with prices ranging from a $100 discounted ticket for locals to a VIP Weekender Pass. A variety of add-ons can also be purchased for individual events, including a yoga and wine event, dinner on Fredericksburg’s historic Austin Street and brunch on the waterfront. The complete lineup can be found at fbgfoodandwine.com.
