If you enjoy learning about the culinary landscapes of different countries, perhaps consider visiting a foodie event. Our best global food festivals to visit this spring have been chosen for their gastronomic diversity, their locations, and because each brings something unique to the table (pardon the pun). Whether it's sampling brand-new craft beers, enjoying demonstrations from rising talent, or sampling some of the planet’s tastiest street food, you’ll find it all at these incredible foodie festivals!
Sample the finest food and drinks from each region at these culinary festivals.
Eat & Drink Festival Scotland
It’s time to don your kilt and venture north to the lively city of Glasgow on the west coast of Scotland. This year's Eat & Drink Festival Scotland takes place on the shores of the river Clyde in the impressive SEC Center. Here, guests can sample mouth-watering Scottish cuisine and beverages from local producers. See top chefs in action on the Eat & Drink Stage and watch as mixologists prepare colourful cocktails with aplomb.
Stalls will be displaying innovative street food ideas and there’s even an Artisan Producers Market if you fancy picking up delectable treats for dinner.
Where: SEC, Glasgow, Scotland
When: 26– 29 May 2023 (10-5 pm)
How to Get Tickets: Adult Tickets cost £16 ($19/€18) if purchased at the door, or you can book online in advance for £13 ($16/€15). Children under the age of 15 enter for free. Tickets can be booked via this link.
Antwerp Proeft (Antwerp Tasting Festival)
Over 30 local restauranteurs, rising culinary stars, and celebrity chefs will descend on Waagnatie, Antwerp this May to showcase their gastronomical fare. The Antwerp Tasting Festival, also known as ‘Taste of Antwerp’, shines a spotlight on Belgian-French, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine served in eateries throughout the city.
The indoor/outdoor festival comes with free cooking demonstrations, speciality stalls and artisan bakers, and most dishes are available to try at a reasonable cost of six to €10 ($11).
This foodie festival, although held in May, has a charming festive atmosphere, and is set in a culturally significant area of the city next to the Scheldt estuary – definitely one event to visit if you’re in Europe.
Where: Waagnatie, Antwerp, Belgium
When: 18-21 May 2023
How to Get Tickets: Prices start from €10,50 for one adult per day, however, it can be cheaper to purchase a multi-day ticket if you plan to visit more than once. You can also register for a free BBQ workshop and receive a free drink on entry. You’ll find tickets to all activities via this link.
New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
If you’re in the United States in early June, head to the ‘Big Easy’. The New Orleans Wine and Food Experience is one of the most revered culinary celebrations in North America, attracting expert connoisseurs and gourmands from all across the nation.
Hundreds of restaurants and wineries take part, and menus showcase the flavours of Louisiana and beyond. Top chefs curate a plethora of experiential dishes for guests to enjoy, and it’s all for a good cause too. A percentage of the proceeds is distributed to non-profit organizations in the community.
The event, set across several city locations, showcases cooking demonstrations, you can mingle with restauranteurs and winery owners, watch live burlesque performances, learn tips from a sommelier, and discover how to make the most creative cakes! What’s not to love?
Where: New Orleans, LA, USA
When: 7-11 June 2023
How to Get Tickets: If you would like to attend specific events, sample food and wines in local eateries, or enjoy a cooking workshop, you’ll find tickets to all activities via this link.
GABS Beer, Cider & Food Festival, Melbourne, Australia
This globally recognized, fun festival is back with an itinerary like never before. This year, the Aussie festival will showcase over 120 new craft beers for the first time. You can mingle with brewers - learn all the tricks of the trade, attend masterclasses, or even strut your stuff at a silent disco.
At the venue’s street food market, vendors and trucks will display their wares for tasting, allowing you to feast on some of the finest food and beverages from Melbourne and beyond. Many of these stands will also be running games, competitions, and activities to join in with too!
Don’t forget to get involved with blind tastings and food pairings or challenge friends to a game of Giant Jenga. Also, those planning to attend on Sunday 21st will also be treated to a spectacular 80’s themed party!
When: 19-21 May 2023
Where: Royal Exhibition Building & Carlton Gardens, Melbourne
How to Get Tickets: Tickets can be purchased for a single session, or you can order group ‘beer buddies’ tickets for up to 7 people which is slightly discounted. They can be purchased online via this link.
