Get ready to feast your way through the Richmond Region with some of the most exciting food and drink festivals of the year! Whether you're a chocolate lover, vegan enthusiast, or someone who enjoys exploring cuisines from around the world, there’s a festival here for everyone. These events offer the perfect opportunity to taste, explore, and celebrate the culinary delights that make the Richmond Region truly unique. Here’s a look at some of the most popular food and drink events that you won’t want to miss!
Ashland Chocolate Festival
Center of the Universe Brewing | February
Looking for a sweet Valentine’s Day treat? The Ashland Chocolate Festival, held annually in February at Center of the Universe Brewing, is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. With free admission, a vendor area perfect for Valentine's shopping, and a unique selection of chocolate brews and beers, it's a fun way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Chocolate, Wine, and Whiskey Festival
Main Street Station | February
For a unique tasting experience, the Chocolate, Wine, and Whiskey Festival at Main Street Station is the perfect event, held every February. This 21+ event offers unlimited samples of wine, whiskey, beer, and cider, along with chocolate in all its delicious forms. With 50+ vendors and plenty of indulgent pairings, it's the perfect way to treat yourself!
Virginia Wine Expo
Main Street Station | March
Taste why Virginia has become an acclaimed wine destination at the Virginia Wine Expo. This popular wine expo gives you the chance to meet the owners and winemakers behind Virginia's emergence as an international wine destination. Check out dozens of wine events, like the legendary Walk-Around Grand Tasting, where you can taste and buy more than 450+ Virginia wines.
Lebanese Food Festival
Saint Anthony Church | May
Held every May, the Lebanese Food Festival is a celebration of flavors and culture. Experience Lebanon in the heart of the Richmond Region by enjoying traditional Lebanese cuisine, live music, and youth group performances featuring traditional dance.
Richmond Greek Festival
Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral | May
A Richmond tradition for nearly 50 years, the Richmond Greek Festival brings the flavors and culture of Greece to the region every year at the end of May. This beloved food festival features authentic Greek cuisine, live music, folk dancing, an international marketplace, and a pastry table filled with sweet delicacies.
¿Qué Pasa? Festival
Brown's Island | May
Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of Latin America at this fun spring festival! Join the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for a day of arts, cuisine, and entertainment celebrating the diversity and beauty of Latin culture. It’s a perfect way to embrace the spirit of Latin America while spending time with friends and family in a festive, community-driven atmosphere.
Ashland Strawberry Faire
Randolph-Macon College | June
Ashland Strawberry Faire has been a beloved tradition since 1982, celebrating community, local businesses, and, of course, strawberries! Held every June on the Randolph-Macon College campus, this family-friendly event features over 300 vendors, live music, demonstrations, and delicious treats from their row of dessert vendors along Sweet Lane. Head to the charming Town of Ashland to explore the festivities with proceeds benefitting local scholarships and nonprofit initiatives.
Hanover Tomato Festival
Hanover Vegetable Farm | July
You say tomato, we say get to this festival. This free, outdoor, pet-and family-friendly event celebrates the most amazing tomatoes you’ll ever taste. The famed Hanover tomatoes are a unique treat you’ll only find in this region, but there's more to the festival than food. Join the party for live music, artisans, kids activities, and more.
Carytown Watermelon Festival
Carytown | August
It’s Virginia’s largest one-day festival, taking over Richmond’s eclectic “Mile of Style” for a day full of excitement, music, and fun! There's plenty of watermelon to keep you cool while you take in all the musicians, exhibitors, and more. Offering live performances and interactive experiences, this festival is the perfect way to spend the day with friends and family while soaking in the summer energy of the Richmond Region.
(Photo courtesy of Richmond VegFest's website)
Richmond Vegfest
Byrd Park | September
Calling all plant-based foodies! Every year, the Richmond VegFest takes over Byrd Park with over 100 vegan-friendly vendors and a full lineup of entertainment across three stages. From live music to cooking demos, this festival showcases the many ways to enjoy a plant-based lifestyle while highlighting local resources that make it easy. Celebrating over 20 years, it’s a must-visit for food lovers of all kinds!
(Photo courtesy of St. Benedict's website)
St. Benedict Oktoberfest
St. Benedict Catholic Church | September
St. Benedict Oktoberfest brings German traditions to the Museum District neighborhood every fall with authentic cuisine, beverages, and festive entertainment. Held at St. Benedict Catholic Church, this free event features live music, dancing, children’s activities, and a Christkindlmarkt shopping village. Don’t miss the chance to grab a commemorative stein or test your strength in the double steinholding contest!
(Photo courtesy of Soul Vegan's website)
Soul Vegan Block Party
Abner Clay Park | September
Soul Vegan Block Party is a celebration of plant-based living, community, and culture, held every fall in the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. This free event uplifts communities of color while promoting a healthy and ethically conscious lifestyle through food, speakers, cooking demos, music, and dancing. Whether you're vegan or just curious, it’s a welcoming space to explore and enjoy!
Armenian Food Festival
St. James Armenian Church | October
Every fall, the Armenian Food Festival brings the flavors and traditions of Armenia to the Richmond Region, creating a delicious and immersive way to experience Armenian heritage. This cultural celebration features authentic Armenian cuisine, pastries, beer, and wine, along with live music, dancing, and performances.
Hops in the Park
Henricus Historical Park | November
Celebrate the long and rich history of brewing in Virginia at this national award-winning hops & harvest festival! Hops in the Park features dozens of Virginia craft beers, brewing demos, a farmers’ market, music, food, children’s activities, and of course - Virginia history. All proceeds from Hops in the Park support Henricus Foundation's Children's Education Fund.
There's even more bites & sips to enjoy in the Richmond Region. Mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and get ready to experience the best of RVA's food scene!
