If you enjoy great food, local wine, and beautiful summer days in northern Michigan, the Traverse City Food & Wine festival is an event worth adding to your calendar. Taking place August 19 through 23, 2026, this five day celebration showcases the incredible flavors, agriculture, and creativity that make the Traverse City area such a special destination.
The festival debuted in 2025 and quickly became one of the area’s most popular annual events, with more than 80 experiences and many selling out. Visitors can enjoy chef demonstrations, fine dining experiences, wine pairings, farm tours, sailing cruises, chocolate tastings, and conversations with chefs, winemakers, authors, and other experts.
The Grand Tasting
The highlight of the festival is the Grand Tasting on Saturday, August 22 at Open Space Park in downtown Traverse City.
Guests can wander through dozens of tasting stations featuring dishes inspired by northern Michigan farms, orchards, and waters while sampling more than 100 local wines and a wide variety of craft beverages. Throughout the afternoon, top chefs will share cooking demonstrations on the Main Stage, followed by opportunities to sample their creations and take home recipes.
For an even more exclusive experience, VIP tickets include early admission, access to a private lounge, premium food and beverage selections, additional beverage pours, and comfortable seating throughout the event.
Dirt to Glass Conference
Wine enthusiasts and industry professionals may also enjoy the Dirt to Glass conference on August 20 and 21. This unique event focuses on Michigan’s grape and wine industry, offering educational seminars, guided tastings, and discussions about how healthy vineyards produce exceptional wines.
Stay Close to the Festival
If you are planning to attend Traverse City Food & Wine next year, our Dyer Lake Vacation Home is less than 15 minutes from the Grand Tasting at Open Space Park. After a full day of food, wine, and exploring downtown Traverse City, you can return to a quiet lakeside retreat and relax before another day of festival fun.
Whether you come for the Grand Tasting or one of the many special events throughout the week, Traverse City Food & Wine is a wonderful way to experience the best flavors of northern Michigan.
👉 Plan your Northern Michigan getaway
Many guests choose to book directly with us to avoid extra platform fees and save a little on their stay. We are always happy to answer questions and help you feel comfortable with the process.
If you prefer using Airbnb, that option is available as well. We want you to book in the way that feels easiest for you.
When you are ready, you can check availability and reserve your dates below.
