Naples boasts a thriving culinary scene, and that’s reflected in a regular slate of food festivals. Here’s an overview of some of the “must-try” favorites.
Admission is free unless otherwise noted.
THE PARADISE COAST WINE + FOOD EXPERIENCE — OCT. 15, 2022
Sponsored by USA Today, this lavish to-do features a gourmet showcase by prominent local chefs and culinary leaders who’ll mingle with patrons in a relaxed setting. You’ll be privy to unlimited samplings of chef creations from some of the finest local restaurants. A VIP ticket adds unlimited tastings of fine wine and craft beer as well as chef demonstrations on the Cellar Stage and access to a special lounge. The festival runs from 1-4 p.m. (with VIP admission at noon) at Cambier Park in downtown Naples. Click here for tickets.
12TH ANNUAL STONE CRAB FESTIVAL — OCT. 29-31, 2022
The Tin City section of downtown Naples comes alive in celebration of the Paradise Coast’s signature seafood, stone crab. As many as 25,000 people turn out to dig into fresh-caught stone crab claws, enjoy live music and other entertainment, and browse arts-and-crafts tents and assorted vendors. This popular festival marks the unofficial kickoff to stone crab season, which runs from Oct. 15 to May 1.
NAPLES VEG FEST — NOV. 13, 2022
Florida’s Paradise Coast has a number of initiatives that promote healthy living, so it’s no surprise that aPlantBasedDiet.org has created an event that features speakers, cooking demonstrations, tastings, live music, and more. If you’re thinking of going vegetarian or vegan, this is the festival for you. It runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sugden Regional Park in Naples.
NAPLES SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL — FEB. 3-5, 2023
On the grounds of the Italian American Club in North Naples, restaurants and other purveyors will be showcasing and selling their seafood specialties, along with sides, vegetarian dishes, and desserts. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will also be served. The stage will be rollicking with an array of local and regional rock, blues, R&B, country, and reggae acts. You can also peruse a marketplace with arts, crafts, and other unique offerings.
EVERGLADES CITY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL — FEB. 17-19, 2023
For a town with a population of less than 300, Everglades City really knows how to throw a party. Up to 50,000 people flock to this fishing village (located a half-hour’s drive from downtown Naples) to enjoy rides, arts and crafts, concerts, and, the star attraction, stone crab — along with other delights from the sea. The tents go on block after block, covering almost the entire town. The 2023 edition, the 53rd annual, boasts a
NAPLES CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL — MARCH 4, 2023
Celebrating the art and craft of brewing, this festival showcases a wide variety of beers from more than 30 breweries throughout Florida, the U.S., and the world, all of which are available for tasting. Food vendors will be on hand as well, with chefs competing for the People’s Choice and Grand Champion awards for best pairing. Local music acts will keep the party jumpin’. The fest runs from noon to 4 p.m. on Pedestrian Plaza at the Bayfront Center in downtown Naples. Click here for tickets.