Best Food Festivals In Richmond, VA

The Best Food Festivals In Richmond, VA

Virginia Is For Lovers, and Richmond is for festivals! Let us just humble brag: RVA knows how to throw a food festival, and there are countless to choose from. From Armenian to Jewish, from Greek to Bacon (and BBQ and Bourbon), we’ve got something for everyone here. Here’s a list of our favorite food festivals in Richmond, VA.

Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival

We’d be remiss if we didn’t include a festival with words “beer,” “bourbon,” and “BBQ.” In it’s second decade, the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival offers up more than 60 beers, 40 kinds of bourbon, and all the BBQ you can imagine. In fact, the website boasts “Beer, Bourbon, Barbecue, Boots, Bacon, Biscuits, Bluegrass, and Smoked Beasts!” What’s not to love about that? It usually takes place in July at The Meadow Event Park.

Carytown Watermelon Festival

Okay, hear us out. We know watermelon isn’t what you might think of when you hear the words “food festival,” but honestly, where else can you get watermelon-themed desserts, cocktails, beer and cider, salads, and so much more in an entire neighborhood? The Carytown Watermelon Festival has been going strong for more than 40 years now, and with freshly cut watermelon available at literally every intersection, it’s the perfect way to spend a very hot August day.

Hanover Tomato Festival

Another food festival that might not come to top of mind is the Hanover Tomato Festival. That is, unless you’re a hardcore Richmonder. Folks know that Hanover Tomato season is definitely worth celebrating – with locally grown tomatoes the size of a softball (or bigger), who’s to argue with that? This festival is nearing the 50-year mark, so next July, make your way out to Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville and get you a fried green tomato sandwich with all the Duke’s Mayo you can handle.

Jewish Food Festival

Richmond’s Jewish Food Festival is a celebration of all things delicious. For more than 15 years, the festival has been attended by Richmonders and foodies at the Weinstein Jewish Community Center on Monument Ave. It’s usually a two-day celebration in January, with one being an in-person event with live music, vendors, and all the Jewish food you can imagine. In 2023, they offered a “Take Home – Heat ‘n Eat” option on the other day. If you’re a fan of brisket, corned beef, matzah ball soup, and more, this is the festival for you!

Lebanese Food Festival

When it comes to delicious food and fantastic dancing, the Lebanese Food Festival is where it’s at. For three days in May, enjoy some of the best “bubbaghanooge” and grape leaves you’ve ever had, trust us. Need more proof? The Lebanese Food Festival has been around for 38 years and counting. Check it out in Glen Allen next May and get ready an amazing experience!

OystoberFest

We super love oysters. Like, a lot. So when we found out there was a festival that combines some of our favorite things – Oktoberfest and oysters – we were there. Treat yourself to raw, fried, and/or grilled oysters, all with craft beers, select wines, and homemade treats. The afternoon in Ginter Park provides live music, bike valet (so cool!), and more. Plus, the proceeds benefit the outreach work of St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, including its food bank. Oystoberfest is a one-day event usually held in October.

Richmond Greek Festival

Since 1976, the Richmond Greek Festival has been offering up chicken and pork souvlaki, pastichio, and everyone’s favorite spanakopita. Initially known as the “Richmond Grecian Festival,” it raised the visibility of the Cathedral and introduced many Richmonders to Greek food and culture. For decades now, the Richmond Greek Festival has been one of the most popular food festivals in the city. It usually spans a 4-day period (Thursday-Sunday) in June.

Richmond VegFest

Richmond VegFest is exactly what it sounds like – a vegan/vegetarian food festival highlighting all of the amazing providers who make veganism a positive and easy choice in the community. Usually held in Byrd Park in October, this festival features cooking demonstrations, educational speakers, live music, other entertainment, and tons of delicious food and beverage options!

Swine & Brine

Swine & Brine is perhaps a lesser known food festival with a huge presence! Seriously, the 2023 line up included a few small names you may have heard of, like ZZQ, Rappahannock Oyster Company, and Ardent Craft Ales. Swine & Brine is a celebration of pork, seafood, and beer (and cider and sparkling wine!) While it’s only been around for a handful of years, you’ll want to check it out next April at Ardent in Scott’s Addition.

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