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Every January, Fort Lauderdale leans into what it does best: great weather, great food, and even better views. The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival (often shortened to VLWF) brings it all together with a weekend that’s equal parts laid-back and indulgent.

 

If you’re planning a winter escape or already have a trip on the calendar, this is one festival that’s easy to build a getaway around. Here’s what to expect, how to plan your days, and where to stay if you want to be close to the action without feeling right in the middle of it.

 

What Is the Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival?

The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival is a multi-day celebration of Fort Lauderdale dining, wine, spirits, and the chefs behind it all. Events take place across the city, from waterfront venues to iconic spots along Las Olas.

 

You’ll find a mix of experiences. Some are big, walk-around tastings with dozens of restaurants and brands. Others are smaller and more intimate, like seated dinners or chef-led demos. Many events sell out quickly, so it’s worth skimming the lineup as soon as tickets go live.

 

One thing that sets the Fort Lauderdale Food Festival apart is its charitable focus. Proceeds benefit Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, making it easy to give back to the local community while having fun.

Chefs and Personalities to Watch This Year

The festival consistently draws recognizable names alongside local talent. This year’s culinary talent lineup includes big names like Richard Blais, Eddie Jackson, and Nancy Fuller.

 

Even if you don’t plan around one specific chef, it’s fun to check the schedule. Some of the best events are the ones you didn’t expect to love.

 

How to Plan Your Festival Weekend

A little planning goes a long way here. The festival spreads events across multiple days and locations, so it helps to think about your plan ahead of time.

 

1. Start with one, must-attend event.

Choose a main tasting or dinner— like BBQ at the Beach or Wok ‘n Roll— that you’re excited about and plan around it. Doing this keeps the weekend from feeling overstuffed.

 

2. Leave room to explore.

Fort Lauderdale has no shortage of great restaurants, and not all of them are part of the festival. Build in time for a casual lunch or sunset drink on the water. Plus, don’t forget about all of the fun things to do outside of food!

 

3. Mix big and small events.

Large tastings are social and lively, while smaller dinners tend to be slower and more relaxed. Doing one of each gives you the best feel for the festival.

 

Where to Eat Outside the Festival

Even if your schedule is full, chances are you’ll still be looking for breakfast, coffee, or a late-night bite. Luckily, Fort Lauderdale dining is easy to navigate. Be sure to check out our guide on the best restaurants in town for every occasion. 

 

Where to Stay During the Festival

Location matters during a busy weekend like this. Staying somewhere central makes it easier to bounce between events without spending your whole trip in the car.

Yacht Haven RV Park & Marina is a popular option for travelers who want flexibility and a waterfront setting. It’s close enough to festival venues to keep drives short, but far enough to feel calm at the end of the day. Whether you’re an RV traveler or a boater, it’s a comfortable home base that fits the coastal vibe of the weekend.

 

Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival FAQs

Here are some answers to some of the most common questions we hear about the VLFWF.

 

What is the Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival?

The Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival is a multi-day culinary event held each January. It features tastings, chef-led dinners, and special events hosted at venues across the city. The festival highlights Fort Lauderdale dining while also supporting Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

 

Who will be at the Fort Lauderdale & Wine Festival?

The festival brings together local restaurants, national brands, and well-known culinary personalities. This year will feature chefs like Richard Blais, Eddie Jackson, and Nancy Fuller, alongside many Fort Lauderdale favorites.

 

Is the Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival worth planning a trip around?

Yes. The festival pairs great food and wine with peak winter weather and beautiful waterfront settings. It’s easy to mix festival events with beach time, sightseeing, and meals outside the official lineup.

 

Where should I stay for the Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival?

One of the best places to stay during the festival is Yacht Haven RV Park & Marina. Its central location makes it easy to get to festival events, while the marina setting offers a quieter place to unwind after a full day of tastings.

 

A Final Tip Before You Go

The VLFWF isn’t about rushing from plate to plate. It’s about enjoying the city, meeting people who care about food, and soaking up a few days of sunshine while you do it. Pick events you’re genuinely excited about, leave space for spontaneity, and don’t overthink it.

 

If you’re visiting Fort Lauderdale in early 2026, this festival is one of the easiest ways to experience the city at its best—fork in hand, glass filled, and plans that feel just right.