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Alabama Best Food and Drink Festivals 

Food, Wine, Spirits and Beer Festivals listed also include surrounding areas that host signature events.

 Birmingham 

Milestone Brands American Born Moonshine
Ghost Tequila

Huntsville

Montgomery

 Mobile

Nat SF

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Best food and drink festivals in Alabama

Alabama's Ultimate Festivals: A Feast for Every Palate Through Food, Wine, Spirits and Beer

From the bustling streets of Birmingham to the charming corners of Huntsville and the Gulf breeze in Mobile, these festivals showcase the rich culinary tapestry that makes Alabama a true foodie haven.
Birmingham Food Festivals:
 
Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival: April

This annual Alabama festival combines slow-smoked meats with soulful blues music in a vibrant outdoor celebration. The Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival, held at DeBardeleben Park in historic Bessemer, draws over 5,000 attendees who come to enjoy performances on the main stage featuring regional blues artists like Alabama Blues Hall of Famer Earl "Guitar" Williams and Birmingham's own Elnora Spencer. Food offerings center around the legendary Bob Sykes BBQ pulled pork and ribs, while additional vendors serve up local specialties including Miss Myra's banana pudding, Saw's BBQ sauce, and Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint's smoked turkey.

The festival marketplace features 35 artisan vendors selling handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and local art, alongside a dedicated kids' zone with face painting and inflatable attractions. Festival highlights include the annual Bob Sykes Pitmaster Competition where teams compete for best-in-show barbecue honors, plus a special blues workshop area where aspiring musicians can learn techniques from performing artists.


Magic City Mac & Cheese Festival: November
 
Birmingham's most anticipated food festival at Sloss Furnaces showcases the beloved comfort food dish in countless creative variations, attracting thousands of hungry attendees from across Alabama and neighboring states. The Magic City Mac & Cheese Festival features over 40 local restaurants and food vendors, each offering their unique spin on macaroni and cheese. Festival goers can sample everything from classic three-cheese recipes to innovative combinations like buffalo chicken mac, lobster mac, and even dessert-inspired variations.

Local craft breweries and beverage vendors provide refreshing drinks to complement the cheesy dishes, with Good People Brewing Company and Trim Tab Brewing serving up their signature beers. Live entertainment keeps the energy high throughout the event, with performances by local Birmingham bands like Taylor Hollingsworth and Will Stewart on the main stage. The festival includes a friendly competition where attendees can vote for their favorite mac and cheese creation, while kids enjoy face painting and a dedicated children's activity area.

 
Birmingham Wine Festivals:

West Alabama Food & Wine Festival: April

The premiere culinary gathering unites Alabama's finest chefs, beverage artisans, and food enthusiasts at the River Market in downtown Tuscaloosa for an evening of gourmet delights. The West Alabama Food & Wine Festival showcases over 30 vendors, including local favorites like Avenue Pub, Chuck's Fish, and Southern Ale House, alongside regional wineries and craft breweries. Guests can sample signature dishes ranging from fresh Gulf seafood to artisanal cheeses, paired with an extensive selection of wines, craft beers, and specialty cocktails.

Festival attendance averages around 500 food lovers annually, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows meaningful interactions with chefs and beverage makers. The festival features local jazz musicians providing live entertainment throughout the evening, enhancing the sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance. A highlight of the event includes live culinary demonstrations where attending chefs share their techniques and cooking secrets with festival-goers.


Magic City Wine Fest: May

A sophisticated blend of wine tastings and culinary excellence takes center stage in downtown Birmingham each spring at Railroad Park. The Magic City Wine Fest, hosted by Cahaba Dermatology & Spa, transforms the sprawling green space into a wine lover's paradise featuring expert-led tastings and food pairings. Local chefs showcase their talents with carefully curated small plates designed to complement the diverse selection of domestic and international wines.

Guests can stroll through the park's winding paths while sampling vintages from both established wineries and boutique vineyards, with opportunities to purchase their favorites directly from vendors. The festival atmosphere is enhanced by the picturesque backdrop of Birmingham's skyline and the park's natural beauty. Attendees can also enjoy wine education sessions, live cooking demonstrations, and artisanal market vendors offering wine-related accessories and local goods.


Birmingham Beer and Bourbon Festivals

Bourbonham Bourbon, BBQ & Music Festival: January

A spirited celebration of Southern culture draws thousands of enthusiasts to The Club in Birmingham, where more than 50 different bourbons await sampling, including coveted pours of Blanton's, Basil Hayden, and Elijah Craig. Expert distiller ambassadors roam the grounds, sharing their deep knowledge of bourbon craftsmanship while guests enjoy carefully curated bourbon flights in an elegant setting overlooking the city. The outdoor layout features a sophisticated cigar lounge where patrons can pair premium cigars with their chosen bourbon selections.

Artisanal BBQ vendors serve up smoky, perfectly charred meats that complement the robust bourbon offerings, creating an ideal marriage of flavors. Top-shelf bourbon tastings are expertly guided by industry professionals who share insider knowledge about mash bills, aging processes, and tasting notes. Guests particularly appreciate the opportunity to sample rare and limited-edition bourbons while enjoying panoramic views from The Club's prestigious location.


Cullman Oktoberfest: September

A cherished autumn tradition in Alabama brings German heritage to life with authentic food, music, and community spirit. The festival, held at the historic L&N Depot Park in Cullman, welcomes over 1,000 visitors annually to celebrate Bavarian culture. Festival organizers partner with more than 40 local vendors, including Berkley's BBQ, Yuengling Beer Garden, and Richter's Marketplace, serving traditional bratwurst, schnitzel, and craft beer selections.

Local polka bands and folk musicians perform throughout the weekend on two stages, while skilled dancers demonstrate traditional German folk dances in authentic costumes. Children can enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating stations, and a designated play area with carnival-style games. The festival features a biergarten tent that seats 300 people, offering imported German beers and local craft brews alongside competitions for best lederhosen and dirndl costumes.
Best food and beer beer festivals in Birmingham Alabama
Huntsville Food and Wine Festivals:
Crush Wine & Food Festival: September

 

Huntsville hosts an annual wine and food celebration that has become a highlight of the fall season. The event takes place in Big Spring International Park, offering attendees a picturesque setting to enjoy a variety of wines and culinary delights. Over 150 wines from more than 50 wineries are available for tasting, including local Alabama vintages and selections from around the world.

 

Food trucks and local restaurants provide a range of dishes to complement the wines, with options ranging from gourmet sliders to artisanal cheeses. The festival typically attracts around 2,500 wine enthusiasts and foodies each year. While specific music lineups vary by year, the event features live performances by local and regional artists throughout the day, creating a lively atmosphere for attendees.

 
Whistlestop BBQ Festival: October

 

This annual barbecue festival has been held for over 20 years and will be held at the MidCity District. The event features over 50 talented barbecue teams competing in both amateur and professional divisions. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food options from vendors like Phat Sammy's, Goodland Pourhouse, and Blue Oak BBQ, offering everything from traditional barbecue to fusion cuisine. The festival boasts a main music stage, with headliner Leftover Salmon set to perform on Saturday night.

 

Special features include a 17-foot LED screen for watching football in the Tailgate Zone, a Family Fun Zone with inflatable bounce houses, and a People's Choice tasting event where visitors can sample and vote on their favorite barbecue. The festival typically draws thousands of visitors and serves as a fundraiser for the EarlyWorks Children's Museum's STEAM education initiatives.

Mobile Food and Wine Festivals:

Orange Beach Seafood Festival: February

The beloved annual seafood celebration in coastal Alabama draws over 10,000 visitors to The Wharf entertainment complex. The Orange Beach Seafood Festival features more than 200 diverse vendors, including local favorites like Doc's Seafood Shack and Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina. Fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, and locally caught fish are prepared in various styles, from traditional fried baskets to innovative fusion dishes, while craft beer selections from regional breweries complement the maritime feast.

Live music echoes throughout the venue as artists like The Red Clay Strays and Roman Street perform on the main stage, creating a lively atmosphere for festival-goers. Kids enjoy the dedicated children's area complete with face painting, balloon artists, and interactive marine life exhibits provided by the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Local artisans display their nautical-themed crafts and artwork, while cooking demonstrations by area chefs showcase the versatility of Gulf Coast seafood.

 
Wine on the River: October

This waterfront festival along coastal Alabama brings wine enthusiasts to the heart of downtown Mobile. Wine on the River features over 40 carefully selected wine vendors, offering samples from both regional favorites like Perdido Wine Company and international vintners. The outdoor event, hosted at Cooper Riverside Park, typically welcomes around 2,000 attendees who can taste various wines while enjoying the Mobile River views.

Local restaurants, including NoJa, Dauphins, and The Royal Scam, provide gourmet food pairings such as artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and seafood small plates. Live jazz and acoustic performances from regional musicians create an elegant backdrop for the evening. The festival incorporates a unique riverboat component, where VIP guests can take short scenic cruises while sampling exclusive wine selections not available at the main event.

 
Mobile Beer and Bourbon Festivals:
 
Dauphin Street Beer Festival: August

This downtown Mobile ale celebration has grown into one of Alabama's most anticipated craft beer gatherings, drawing over 3,000 enthusiasts annually to the historic entertainment district. The Dauphin Street Beer Festival features more than 30 venues, including favorites like O'Daly's Irish Pub, The Merry Widow, and Pat's Downtown Grill, each offering unique beer selections from regional and national breweries. Local breweries like Serda Brewing and Iron Hand Brewing showcase their signature craft beers alongside national brands, with over 90 different beer varieties available for sampling throughout the evening.

Festival-goers enjoy live music performances on multiple stages, with past performers including local bands like Red Clay Strays and The Underhill Family Orchestra adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Participating restaurants serve specially curated food pairings designed to complement the beer selections, with many venues offering exclusive festival-only menu items. The festival features a commemorative tasting glass for attendees, a convenient mobile app for venue navigation, and designated areas where beer enthusiasts can meet and discuss with master brewers about their craft.

 
Bourbon on the Bay: November

The Gulf Coast's premier bourbon tasting event is set to return for its eighth annual celebration. Hosted at The Temple in Mobile, Alabama, this popular gathering offers attendees the opportunity to sample a wide variety of premium bourbons and whiskeys from over 30 vendors, including renowned distilleries like Maker's Mark and Four Roses. Guests can indulge in gourmet paired food samplings, featuring local delicacies such as fresh Gulf oysters and Southern-inspired hors d'oeuvres.

The event also showcases craft cocktails prepared by skilled mixologists, as well as a selection of wines and local brews to cater to diverse tastes. While enjoying the libations, attendees can peruse a unique silent auction and groove to live music, though the specific lineup has not been announced. VIP ticket holders are treated to an exclusive early access hour, allowing them to enjoy high-end bourbon tastings and champagne in a more intimate setting before the main event begins.


Whether you find yourself in the heart of Birmingham, the innovation hub of Huntsville, or the coastal charm of Mobile, Alabama's diverse culinary festivals offer a feast for every palate. From the savory delights of food festivals to the refined sips of wine and the robust flavors of beer and bourbon, these festivals are a celebration of Alabama's rich culinary heritage. 
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