Arizona Best Food and Drink Festivals 

Arizona is not just a land of breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, it's also a food and drink lover's paradise. From Tucson to Phoenix, and up to Flagstaff, the state hosts a variety of festivals celebrating everything from culinary delights to fine wines, craft beers, and spirits. Now let's take a look at few great festivals in the Grand Canyon State.

​

Food Festivals

​

Devour Culinary Classic (Phoenix-February)

 

The culinary festival held at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix showcases over 70 local vendors, featuring an impressive array of food and drink options. Attendees can sample dishes from renowned establishments such as Barrio Cafe, Clever Koi, and The Phoenician Tavern. The event attracts a diverse crowd, with thousands of food enthusiasts eager to explore Arizona's vibrant culinary scene.

 

Alongside the tastings, live music enhances the atmosphere, creating a lively backdrop for guests to enjoy their culinary journey. Special features include cooking demonstrations and a competition where chefs are awarded for creativity and presentation. This festival not only highlights local talent but also emphasizes sustainable practices through its focus on indigenous ingredients.

​

SAVOR Food & Wine Festival (Tucson-January)

 

Set in the picturesque Tucson Botanical Gardens, this culinary festival showcases the vibrant flavors of Southern Arizona. Attendees can expect to sample offerings from over 60 local chefs, wineries, and breweries, including well-known names like Beyond Bread and Barrio Brewing Co. The event features interactive cooking stations where guests can engage directly with chefs, enhancing the experience with live music and art displays throughout the gardens.

 

Hundreds of food lovers gather each year to enjoy a diverse array of tastings, from artisan breads to gourmet olive oils and craft beers. Special highlights include a signature event raffle and opportunities to explore the lush surroundings while savoring unique culinary delights. This festival not only celebrates local cuisine but also emphasizes Tucson's designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. 

​

Wine Festivals 

​

Arizona Wine Festival (Phoenix-January)

 

The upcoming festival in downtown Phoenix will showcase the best of Arizona's wine scene, featuring 20 local wineries that will pour over 200 different wines. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food options from five to seven food trucks, alongside a vintage village and numerous artisan vendors. The event will take place at Heritage Square, a vibrant venue known for its historical significance and community atmosphere. Live music will enhance the experience, with performances scheduled throughout the festival.

 

Notable wineries participating include Birds and Barrels, Bodega Pierce, and Caduceus Cellars. This celebration not only highlights Arizona's growing wine industry but also supports Horses Help, a local charity dedicated to improving the lives of those in need through therapeutic programs involving horses.

 

Wilcox Wine Festival (Tucson-May)

 

The annual gathering in Willcox showcases the best of Arizona's wine scene, featuring 15 local wineries and over 70 vendors. Attendees can explore artisan foods, fine arts, and vintage items while enjoying live music from various artists, including Courtney Cotter King and Seth Loveless. The festival takes place at Railroad Park, a historic venue that enhances the community atmosphere. Food options include offerings from popular local food trucks like Big Tex Bar-B-Que and Isabel’s South of the Border, serving up barbecue favorites and Mexican cuisine.

 

This event has grown significantly over the years, attracting more than 5,000 visitors who come to celebrate the region's unique wines and vibrant culture. Special features include wine seminars hosted by participating wineries, providing insights into winemaking techniques and tastings of exclusive cellar selections.

 

Sedona Wine Fest (Flagstaff-September)

 

The Sedona Wine Festival will be held at Posse Grounds Park, showcasing over 20 award-winning wineries from Arizona. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere with live music from local bands, including performances by DJ Pablonious Funk and the glam-rock group The Naughty Bits. In addition to wine tastings, the event will feature a variety of food trucks offering local cuisine, such as Merkin Gelato and Batchelor’s Pad BBQ.

 

The festival draws a large crowd, with thousands of wine enthusiasts expected to attend. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore artisan vendors selling unique crafts and products. Special features include the chance to meet winemakers from Arizona's three wine-growing regions and purchase bottles directly from the event.