The highly anticipated Food & Wine Classic in Charleston is making its return this year after a positive reception during its inaugural event last year. Set against the backdrop of South Carolina’s rich culinary landscape, this festival will showcase the best of Southern cuisine, featuring a range of dishes crafted by esteemed chefs. Scheduled to take place from November 14-16, 2025, the festival is presented in partnership with Southern Living and Travel + Leisure, with backing from Explore Charleston.
On April 9, 2025, Dotdash Meredith, the parent company of Food & Wine, Southern Living, and Travel + Leisure, officially announced the details of this forthcoming event. Early bird ticket sales are set to open on May 15 at 12 PM ET on the festival’s official website, with special pricing of $1450 available until July 31, after which tickets will revert to the regular price of $1950.
Highlights of the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston
This year’s Food & Wine Classic promises to bring back favorite traditions along with exciting new experiences. Following its recognition by USA Today as one of the ‘Best New Festivals’ in 2024, the festival has generated significant buzz. The schedule for this three-day culinary extravaganza is now live, providing attendees with an array of culinary experiences.
Commenting on the festival, Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief of Food & Wine, expressed enthusiasm about returning to Charleston:
“We’re excited to return to Charleston for another unforgettable weekend of world-class culinary experiences. Charleston’s rich food culture, breathtaking scenery, and signature Southern hospitality create an atmosphere unlike any other.”
He added,
“Alongside our partners at Southern Living and Travel + Leisure, we’re looking forward to spotlighting this dynamic culinary destination and to bringing together our passionate culinary community to celebrate, learn, and savor everything this vibrant city has to offer.”
The festival will feature collaborative experiences led by the editors-in-chief of the participating magazines, alongside contributions from other culinary experts.
Welcoming Star Chefs and Experts
This year, attendees will enjoy the culinary talents of a star-studded line-up of chefs who will provide live cooking demonstrations and share insider tips. The confirmed participants include:
- Emeril and EJ Lagasse
- Maneet Chauhan
- Julia Coney
- Tyler Florence
- Anthony Giglio
- Melissa King
- Wanda Mann
- Amanda McCrossin
- Kwame Onwuachi
- Ray Isle
- Gail Simmons
- Claudette Zepeda
- Andrew Zimmern
In addition to notable chefs, local culinary experts including Mike Lata, Carrie Morey, Rodney Scott, James London, Miles White, and Femi Oyediran will also share their knowledge and skills with attendees.
Guests can expect a weekend filled with food and wine seminars, grand tastings showcasing a variety of appetizers, and opportunities to learn from leading winemakers. Travel + Leisure will also provide curated city excursions for attendees to explore Charleston’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
A highlight of the festival will be the Southern Living’s Lowcountry Tailgate, an event that celebrates Southern barbecue and music alongside the beautiful Kiawah River. Sid Evans, Editor in Chief of Southern Living, shared his excitement:
“With the South’s best barbecue, a red-hot Southern band, and a breathtaking setting, this event is a true celebration of Lowcountry tailgating and Southern culture.”
For those who are passionate about food and travel, mark your calendars for the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, happening June 20-22 this summer. Tickets are currently available for this event as well, offering another opportunity to immerse yourself in culinary excellence.