November is a wonderful time to visit San Diego. The weather is mild, the bay is beautiful, and the city transforms into a paradise for food and wine lovers. The 22nd annual San Diego Food and Wine Festival returns November 1–8, 2026, offering eight full days of tastings, chef showcases, cultural experiences, and waterfront celebrations. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply curious about great wine and food, this is one event you do not want to miss.
This guide covers everything you need to know — from tickets and the event schedule to the featured chefs, wines, and the best things to do during festival week.
What Is the San Diego Food and Wine Festival?
The San Diego Food and Wine Festival is one of the most celebrated culinary events in the United States. It has been running for more than two decades and continues to grow each year. The festival gathers chefs, winemakers, spirits producers, farmers, and food artisans from across the country and from both sides of the US-Mexico border.
Set against the stunning backdrop of San Diego Bay, the event blends coastal charm with world-class flavors. It is more than just a tasting event. It is a full cultural experience that honors Southern California’s rich food traditions and its deep ties with Baja, Mexico.
Additionally, the 2026 edition marks the biggest programming evolution the festival has seen in over 20 years. Organizers have redesigned key elements to make the experience fresher and more immersive than ever before.
Festival Dates, Location and Hours
The 2026 festival runs from Saturday, November 1 through Sunday, November 8. Daily events take place from noon to 10 p.m. across multiple locations throughout San Diego, with the Grand Weekend headlining events held at the iconic Embarcadero Marina Park.
The festival is an adults-only event. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older.
| Detail | Information |
| Dates | November 1–8, 2026 |
| Main Venue | Embarcadero Marina Park, San Diego |
| Daily Hours | 12 PM – 10 PM (varies by event) |
| Age Requirement | 21+ |
| Ticket Website | sandiegowineclassic.com |
The 2026 Event Schedule: What’s Happening Each Day
The festival opens with a week of curated, smaller events before building to its signature Grand Weekend. Here is a breakdown of what to expect:
During the first part of the week (November 1–5), attendees can enjoy intimate wine dinners, chef collaborations, guided tastings, and cooking demonstrations at venues across the city. These smaller events offer a more personal experience. They allow guests to interact directly with the chefs and winemakers behind the food and wine.
The Grand Weekend, however, is where the festival truly shines. It spans Friday through Sunday, November 6–8, and features three signature experiences.
Icons and Legends takes place on Friday, November 6. VIP and early entry begins at 6 p.m., and general admission opens at 6:30 p.m., with the event running until 9 p.m. This brand-new opening-night celebration brings together award-winning chefs, outstanding wines, and premium spirits. It is designed as an elegant walk-around reception where guests can mingle freely among chef stations and culinary tables.
The Grand Tasting, presented by Southwest Airlines, takes place on Saturday, November 7. VIP and early entry begins at 11 a.m., and general admission opens at noon, with the tasting running until 3 p.m. This is the festival’s flagship event. It features hundreds of wineries, breweries, and spirits producers, alongside Michelin and James Beard-recognized chefs. Attendees also vote for their favorite dish in the beloved “Chef of the Fest” competition.
The Grand Fiesta, also presented by Southwest Airlines, closes out the weekend on Sunday, November 8. VIP and early entry begins at 11 a.m., and general admission opens at noon, running until 3 p.m. For the first time, the Grand Fiesta is now held at the Embarcadero alongside the Grand Tasting, creating a seamless two-day waterfront celebration. This event features expanded Baja programming and the fan-favorite “Taco TKO” competition.
| Event | Date | General Admission Opens | VIP Entry |
| Icons and Legends | Friday, Nov. 6 | 6:30 p.m. | 6:00 p.m. |
| Grand Tasting | Saturday, Nov. 7 | Noon | 11:00 a.m. |
| Grand Fiesta | Sunday, Nov. 8 | Noon | 11:00 a.m. |
Featured Chefs and Culinary Talent
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2026 festival is its exceptional lineup of culinary talent. The roster includes chefs from Food Network, Top Chef, the Michelin Guide, and the James Beard Foundation. Each one brings a unique background and cooking style to the table.
Here are some of the standout names to watch:
- Suzette Gresham — a two-Michelin-star chef and winner of the prestigious Antonin Carême Medal, one of the highest honors in the culinary world.
- Joe Sasto — a fan-favorite finalist from Top Chef, known for his pasta mastery and bold Italian flavors.
- Eric Bost — a Michelin-starred chef and James Beard Award semifinalist whose restaurant was named one of the New York Times 50 Best Restaurants of 2025.
- Maynard Llera and Susan Bae — both James Beard Award winners who bring distinct and celebrated culinary perspectives to the event.
- Javier Plascencia — a pioneering Baja chef who has long championed cross-border cuisine and the rich food culture of Mexico’s northwest.
- Kareem “Mr. Bake” Queeman — an acclaimed pastry chef celebrated for his creative and show-stopping desserts.
- Cha McCoy — a sommelier and wine educator who will guide attendees through wine discovery and tasting sessions.
This is truly a remarkable gathering of culinary minds. Therefore, whether you love fine dining or bold street food, there is something here for every palate.
Wines, Spirits and Beverages to Discover
The festival has always been a paradise for wine lovers. However, 2026 takes things even further. Attendees will have access to hundreds of wineries, craft breweries, and artisan spirits producers from across the United States and beyond.
Expect to discover wines from California’s top wine regions, including Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Paso Robles. Additionally, winemakers from Baja California’s growing Valle de Guadalupe region will feature prominently, celebrating the cross-border spirit of the event.
The Grand Tasting alone typically features over 700 different wines for sampling. Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling wines, the selection is sure to impress. Spirits enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy, with craft distillers pouring whiskeys, tequilas, mezcals, and gins throughout the weekend.
New Culinary Districts: A Fresh Festival Experience
One of the most exciting additions to the 2026 festival is the introduction of themed “culinary districts.” These zones are spread across the Grand Weekend venue and are each hosted by top culinary talent. They give the event a marketplace feel, allowing guests to explore different food cultures in one place.
The five new culinary districts are:
- Smoke and Fire — a live-fire zone where premium meats, fish, and vegetables are cooked over open flame, celebrating the primal art of grilling and smoking.
- Sweet Street — an indulgent corner dedicated to pastry, desserts, chocolate, and specialty coffee.
- So San Diego — a district that showcases the city’s thriving local food scene, indie producers, and arts and culture.
- Street Feast: Asian Market — an immersive zone inspired by the vibrant energy of Asian night markets, featuring bold flavors and aromatic street food.
- South of the Border — a journey into the flavors, craftsmanship, and culinary traditions that define Baja and Mexico.
These districts add a new layer of adventure to the festival experience. As a result, exploring them becomes a highlight of the Grand Weekend.
Tickets: How to Buy and What to Expect
Tickets for the San Diego Food and Wine Festival 2026 are available at sandiegowineclassic.com. It is strongly recommended that you purchase tickets in advance, as popular sessions tend to sell out quickly.
Ticket categories generally include General Admission and VIP packages. VIP tickets offer early entry, exclusive access to select chef tastings, and premium experiences. Pricing for individual events varies, so it is best to check the official website for the most current details.
Here is a general ticket overview:
| Ticket Type | Access |
| General Admission | Standard entry at noon |
| VIP / Early Entry | Entry from 11 a.m. (weekday events) or 6 p.m. (Icons and Legends) |
| Multi-Event Packages | Access to several events at a bundled price |
| Intimate Weekday Events | Priced separately; vary by event |
Note that all tickets are for guests aged 21 and over. A valid photo ID is required at entry.
Things to Do Beyond the Festival
San Diego has a lot to offer outside the festival gates. If you are visiting for the week, consider exploring some of the city’s best attractions between events.
Seaport Village, located near the Embarcadero, is a charming waterfront shopping and dining district just steps from the festival grounds. The Gaslamp Quarter is home to some of San Diego’s best bars and restaurants, making it a perfect stop for a pre-event dinner. Balboa Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offers world-class museums, botanical gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
If you enjoy the outdoors, La Jolla Cove is a short drive away and offers stunning coastal scenery, sea caves, and excellent snorkeling. For those who want to explore the Baja connection central to the festival’s spirit, a day trip to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe is a memorable experience.
November weather in San Diego is typically sunny and mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. It is ideal weather for outdoor events and sightseeing.
Giving Back: The Festival’s Community Impact
The 2026 festival is not just about eating and drinking well. It also has a meaningful social mission. The event has expanded its food rescue program in partnership with Rethink Food and the San Diego Food Bank. Surplus food from festival events is redirected to those in need throughout the community. This partnership reflects a growing commitment in the food industry to reduce waste and support local hunger relief efforts.
Additionally, the festival has long supported culinary arts scholarship programs, helping the next generation of chefs pursue their passion. Attending the festival means you are contributing to a larger cause — one that values both great food and a generous community.
Conclusion
The San Diego Food and Wine Festival 2026 is shaping up to be the most ambitious edition in the event’s 22-year history. Running November 1–8 at the stunning Embarcadero waterfront and various San Diego venues, it offers eight days of world-class food, wine, and cultural experiences. The newly introduced culinary districts, the debut of the Icons and Legends opening night, and the first-ever seamless two-day Grand Weekend celebration all point to a truly unforgettable event. With a star-studded chef lineup that includes Michelin-starred talent, James Beard Award winners, and Top Chef favorites, there is something for every food lover. Buy your tickets early, plan your days wisely, and come hungry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates of the San Diego Food and Wine Festival 2026?
The festival runs from Saturday, November 1 through Sunday, November 8, 2026, with daily events from noon to 10 p.m.
Where is the festival held?
The main Grand Weekend events take place at Embarcadero Marina Park in downtown San Diego. Smaller weekday events are held at various venues across the city.
How do I buy tickets for the 2026 festival?
Tickets are available at the official website, sandiegowineclassic.com. VIP and General Admission options are available, and early purchase is strongly recommended as events often sell out.
Is the San Diego Food and Wine Festival suitable for all ages?
No. The festival is strictly for guests aged 21 and older. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry to all events.
What makes the 2026 festival different from previous years?
The 2026 edition introduces several new features, including the Icons and Legends opening night, themed culinary districts such as Smoke and Fire and Sweet Street, and a combined two-day Grand Weekend at the Embarcadero. It is described as the festival’s biggest programming evolution in over two decades.
