What is often deemed as the start of high season on the island, the Nantucket Wine and Food Festival is a can’t miss event for locals that draws thousands of visitors each spring.
Now known as one of the most prestigious events of its kind, the Wine and Food Festival was founded by local sommelier Denis Toner as a small, grassroots event in 1997. The festival has grown over the years and now includes wine tastings, gourmet dinners, cooking classes, events with celebrity chefs, and even a gala.
The festival emphasizes the use of local, seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of Nantucket’s farms and waters. This farm-to-table focus aligns with the island’s dedication to sustainability and fresh, local produce. And the charitable arm of the festival, the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival Charitable Foundation, raises money in support of the island’s natural resources and historical preservation efforts.
The weekend events include:
World-Class Wine Tastings: Including Grand Tastings, the festival’s centerpiece that offers the chance to sample hundreds of wines from some of the world’s top vineyards and winemakers.
Celebrity Chefs and Culinary Events: Throughout the festival, there are several smaller, exclusive gatherings where attendees can dine with celebrity chefs and winemakers.
Gourmet Dinners: Special multi-course dinners that take place in some of Nantucket’s best restaurants or private homes and are paired with expert wines selections.
Cooking Demonstrations: Live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs.
Chef and Winemaker Luncheons: These exclusive events highlight both food and wine pairings.
Wine and Food Seminars: Educational seminars featuring expert winemakers, sommeliers, and chefs.
Educational Seminars: The festival offers a variety of seminars and workshops, where guests can learn about wine, food, and the art of pairing the two.
The Harbor Gala: One of the festival’s signature events, the Harbor Gala is a glamorous evening featuring live music, exceptional wine, and culinary creations from top chefs. The event is held at a waterfront venue, providing stunning views of Nantucket Harbor while guests enjoy a festive evening of food and wine.
Events for Wine Collectors: For serious wine collectors, the festival offers access to rare wine auctions and tastings of unique vintages.
The festival is set for May 14-18, 2025, but tickets are not yet on sale. For more information, visit the Wine and Food Festival website.
*All photos on this page courtesy of Bill Hoenk.
