Pennsylvania Best Food and Drink Festivals 

Philadelphia: Food and Beer Festivals 

 

OktoBEARfest Philadelphia Zoo: September

 

Combining conservation efforts with craft beer sampling, this annual signature fundraising event helps support the vital work of America's first zoo. This popular event at the Philadelphia Zoo features renowned breweries including Paulaner, Sam Adams, Big Oyster Brewery, and Evil Genius, offering over 100 different craft beers, ciders, and seltzers while exploring animal exhibits after regular zoo hours. Food trucks line the pathways including BYZ Empire, The Fabulous Fig, and Deke's BBQ, serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to authentic barbecue.

 

Festival-goers, typically numbering around 3,000 attendees, can enjoy performances by local DJs and Philadelphia's premier Oktoberfest band, Polkadelphia, who keep the crowd dancing with traditional polka music. Animal encounters and keeper talks are scheduled throughout the evening, giving attendees unique opportunities to learn about various species while enjoying their beverages. The festival features special areas like the transformed Peacock Pavilion, now a Bavarian beer tent presented by Samuel Adams Beer, complete with authentic Oktoberfest brews on tap and an entertaining stein-holding contest.

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Taste Philadelphia Festival: October

 

This curated gathering of 145 exhibitors transforms the Valley Forge Casino Resort into a premier culinary destination during the Taste Philadelphia Festival. The carefully orchestrated event features award-winning wineries, craft breweries, distilleries, restaurants, and acclaimed chefs sharing their expertise across three dynamic sessions over two days. Industry experts lead hands-on seminars while celebrity chefs conduct live cooking demonstrations, offering valuable techniques and kitchen tips to both novice cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts.

 

Local and regional beverage producers provide guided tastings of their finest wines, beers, and spirits, creating perfect pairings with the diverse food offerings. The festival atmosphere extends beyond cuisine with entertainment options including Giant Jenga and Cornhole games scattered throughout the venue. The comprehensive experience allows attendees to taste, learn, and engage with the Philadelphia region's vibrant food and beverage community in an interactive setting.

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Harrisburg: Raising Spirits, Wine and Beers

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Harrisburg Wine and Fine Spirits Festival: October

 

A celebration of fine wine and spirits returns to Harrisburg, offering attendees a chance to sample a wide variety of beverages from around the world. Hosted at the Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel, the event features over 30 wineries and distilleries showcasing their products. Visitors can enjoy everything from light, crisp chardonnays to deep, full-bodied brunellos, as well as herbal gins, intriguing tequilas, and smooth bourbons.

 

The festival includes special seminars, such as "Benvenuto Vini d'Italia" with Fred Magnotta and Marco Cuscito, and a tequila tasting with master distiller Germán González Gorrochotegui. VIP ticket holders have access to a private lounge area with hors d'oeuvres and desserts, while general admission attendees are hosted light snacks while enjoying the evening.

 

​Harrisburg Brew Fest: July

 

Set against the scenic backdrop of Fort Hunter Park along the Susquehanna River, the Harrisburg Brew Fest welcomes thousands of attendees each year. Over 50 craft beers are available for sampling, with vendors like Blue Bear BBQ and Grappling Crab Shack offering a variety of gourmet food options. The event features a lively music lineup, including performances by Cold Spring Union and Phil Neary.

 

A unique aspect of the festival is its educational component, where visitors can learn how to brew beer themselves. This popular event, set against the backdrop of the Susquehanna River, is known for selling out quickly, underscoring its appeal among beer enthusiasts.

 

Whether you're indulging in delectable dishes in Philadelphia, sipping fine wines in Pittsburgh, you're sure to have a memorable and delicious experience in the Keystone State.