Thanks to the warm temperatures and sunshine Florida’s food festival season lasts all year-round. The Orlando area is one of the state’s most up-and-coming culinary destinations and we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite food-centric events taking place throughout the holiday season and beyond.
Black Restaurant Week
Now through November 19, 2023
Black Restaurant Week, celebrating the flavors of African American, African, and Caribbean cuisine, was established in 2016 to bring awareness to black-owned culinary businesses, from coffee shops to food trucks from Tampa to Orlando.
This year, over a dozen restaurants in Central Florida are participating in Black Restaurant Week, including Brothers N Arms BBQ food truck,Golden Krust, Streetwise Urban Food, Virgin Island Thyme, and CrystalBakes.
Running through Sunday, Nov. 19, Black Restaurant Week focuses on Black restaurateurs, bartenders, chefs, caterers, and food truck operators throughout the state.
“More than just a week,” the organizers of Black Restaurant Week want this to be more than just another food-focused event, aiming to stimulate the local economy by promoting Black-owned culinary businesses and professionals who cannot otherwise afford to run expensive promotions and marketing campaigns.
Participating Restaurants
Brothers N Arms BBQ Food Truck
CrystalBakes, 142 E. Jackson St.
Golden Krust, 318 N. Alafaya Trail; 1020 W. State Road 50, Clermont; 5510 W. Colonial Drive; 2753 N. Hiawassee Road
Jack and Jackie’s Wingz Thingz & BBQ, 692 W. Robinson St.
Nikki's Place, 742 Carter St.
Plates on Deck, 9640 Boggy Creek Road
Seana’s Caribbean Soul Food, 719 Good Homes Road
Streetwise Urban Food, 4434 Hoffner Ave.
Virgin Island Thyme Caribbean Grill, 457 Avalon Park S. Blvd.
Black Restaurant Week Vendor Fair
November 17, 2023
In collaboration with Plates on Deck, Hideout Orlando is putting on its first Black Restaurant Week Vendor Fair. An opportunity for restauranteurs to to connect with and support the best black owned food vendors in the area, foodies from all over Orange County and beyond attend this family-friendly happy hour that features the best food offerings in the area as well as vendors selling everything from drinks and deserts to art and apparel inviting participants to savor the flavor, celebrate community, and enjoy the Florida vibes.
Orlando Foodie Fest
Wednesday, December 6, 2023, 5 - 9pm EST
4128 Roush Ave., Orlando
From international cuisine to classic comfort food, the Orlando Foodie Fest promises to be a magical event where guests will have the chance to savor a wide range of flavors, from savory street food to sweet treats. A day of culinary delights, live music, local markets, and a vibrant atmosphere, foodies can discover new flavors, meet fellow food enthusiasts, and enjoy the lively ambiance gastronomic experience.
Food and Fit for the Holidays
Thursday, December 7, 2023
Center for Health & Wellbeing, 2005 Mizell Avenue, Winter Park, FL
Is it possible to still enjoy the holiday season without sacrificing your health and wellbeing? Food and Fit for the Holidays says “yes it is!” Teaching guests all about the building blocks of nutrition and the importance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, participants will learn about the major muscle groups and exercises for each one.
Crosby Wellness Center group exercise instructor Katelynn Swanson will discuss how nutrition and fitness work together to benefit your body. In this program, you will learn to leverage home recipes and workouts to become healthier while discovering useful tips to navigate the holidays in a healthy way.
Yoga at the Food Factory Foodie Collective
Sunday, December 3, 2023
The Food Factory Foodie Collective, 888 City Walk Lane, Oviedo
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, this in-person event is perfect for everyone. A relaxing and rejuvenating Yoga Class at the Food Factory Foodie Collective in Oviedo, guests can unwind and stretch in a beautiful and serene environment. Guests can just grab a yoga mat and enjoy a blissful experience at the Food Factory Foodie Collective then stay and enjoy delicious food from Micro-Restaurants and a drink from the Factory Bar.
Holiday Wine and Cheese Pairing Experience
December 7, 2023
Dwell Home Market , 1050 Water Street Tampa, FL 33602
A curated Holiday Wine & Cheese Pairing Experience hosted by Malbec Bay, Cheese & Kiki, and Dwell was created to tantalize taste buds and heighten holiday spirit.
Experience a delightful journey through the world of wine and cheese with curated pairings of four exquisite wines and artisan cheeses. Each cheese has been expertly matched with a wine that complements its unique flavor profile.
International Vegan Food Festival
Saturday, January 27, 2024
Wall Street Plaza, 25 Wall Street Orlando
Explore a wide range of food stalls, each offering unique and delectable dishes, from mouthwatering vegan burgers and pizzas to colorful salads and desserts at the International Vegan Food Festival, where delicious plant-based delights from around the world await.
Whether you're a committed vegan or just a little curious about plant-based cuisine, this festival promises to be a delicious and educational experience. Discover new flavors, learn about sustainable food practices, and connect with like-minded foodies who share your passion for a cruelty-free lifestyle.
By Eileen Strauss
