Jun 18, 2013

Tina George

Lucky Rice Festival Celebrates the Bay Area Asian Food Culture

The Bay Area has long been known as a hub for Asian cuisine in the U.S. With that idea in mind, organizers of the highly successful Lucky Rice Festival have decided to descend on San Francisco for the first time this September.

“When we first looked to expand the festival to locations outside of New York, the Bay Area was an obvious first choice, with such a highly concentrated Asian population,” said Danielle Chang, founder of the Lucky Rice Festival. “But being from the Bay Area myself, I knew if we brought it to the region, it had to be something special, something that was unique and something that really added to the dialogue and brought a greater focus to the importance of Asian cuisine in many cultures.”

Citing the sophisticated and knowledgeable food-driven audience she knew she would be dealing with in the Bay Area, Chang has crafted together a mix of other events around the country, all culminating in the Lucky Rice Feast, which will be held at the Ferry Building on September 6. The idea is to bring together a couple dozen local chefs, some of the best bars and mix and meld a unique night celebrating all different varieties of Asian cuisine. “This is hopefully a chance for guests to get a much better understanding of the role food plays in Asian cultures. The festival is all part of the learning process; getting to know foods that you might not be familiar with, talking to chefs about their background and how that has influenced their cooking style,” Chang said. “We have always aimed for the festival to be more of a party atmosphere. We don’t want the stuffiness of some other food festivals, where it seems like everyone is trying to stuff as much food in their faces in the shortest time possible. We want guests to enjoy an unforgettable evening of food and drinks.”

Although the final list of participants is still being worked out, among the chefs and restaurants already signed up to participate are MY China, the yet-to-open Roka Akor, Spice Kit, EO Asian Kitchen, Hakkasan, Chef Arnold Eric Wong of EO and Chef Kyle Itani at Hopscotch in Oakland. Eight bars will also be making cocktails that evening, pairing them with the food being presented. “We’re hoping to bring in Danny (Bowien) since he played such a key role in the success of Mission Chinese Food. He helped launch our event this year in New York. We feel like this could be sort of a hero’s welcome for him,” said Chang. “The truly amazing thing about Asian cuisine is that it not just limited to Asian food. Just look at our culinary council – although you’ll see names like Masaharu Morimoto and David Chang, there are also chefs like Daniel Boulud and Eric Ripert. Neither of those great chefs focus on Asian cuisine per se, but they use techniques and ingredients from all over the world. Asian cuisine is not just limited to that, it’s become more and more influential in all styles of cooking.”

Chang said she’s excited for the first year of the event in San Francisco and hopes to expand it in years to come. Tickets for American Express cardholders go on sale for the Lucky Rice Festival on Wednesday, June 19, with tickets open to the general public starting on July 3. More information in the weeks to come. The Lucky Rice Festival will be held at the Ferry Building on Friday, September 6 from 7:00-10:00pm. Tickets are $85 for general admission, $125 for VIP.

Photo Credit: Richard Patterson Photography

It’s simple. Keith Mizuguchi loves to write and write and write some more. After taking a hiatus from the journalism business, he has rekindled his passion for writing over the last two years, holding a job as both a web and on-air writer for San Francisco news radio station KCBS. While he enjoys the news business, his true passions are twofold: sports and food. Bay Area born and raised, he lives in San Jose, commutes to SF and loves every minute of it. You can follow his food adventures on Twitter @foodie_keith.

Tags: Asian Cuisine, Danielle Chang, ferry building, Lucky Rice Festival, san francisco

A Trio Of South London Festivals

Crystal Palace Overground Festival

This summer three festivals will grace the streets of South London within three weeks of one another. What’s more, they’re mostly free.

Treat yourself to a healthy dose of community spirit with four days of performing arts, live music, art and craft, and family fun at Crystal Palace Overground Festival (27-30 June). Venues across the area open their doors for activities including comedy nights, salsa, bingo, dances, food festivals and even a Pirate Party. Come Saturday 29 June, a live music stage will set up in Westow Park alongside a food tasting tent, holistic zone, sporty area and storytelling tent.

Those wanting to find out more about Crystal Palace can explore it through the eyes of its residents as locally sourced photography, arts and words related to the area will be placed in various sites throughout the festival.

Sydenham Arts Festival (SAF) is two whole weeks of musical, literary, family, comedy, film-y goodness. Over 90 events will take place between 29 June and 14 July. Arts in the Park kicks things off on 30 June, a free event showcasing young talent from the area. Other highlights include the annual SAF Street Celebration, where the world comes to Sydenham High Street, free Arts Workshops (VFX filmmaking, Taiko drumming, playwriting and salsa dancing all on offer), and a Wacky-Races-inspired competition complete with old-fashioned jalopies.

Chronologically last but by no means least is Streatham Festival (11-14 July), which celebrates the area’s rich heritage of architecture, arts, people and culture (ya boo sucks to you, Jo Brand). Craft workshops, film screenings and live art installations are all on the cards, but Streatham UnCommon on Saturday 13 July is the festival’s flagship event, with a dancehall-era dance show, community tea dance, an aerial theatre show, activity trails, and a carnival parade along the adjacent streets.

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NJ weekend food calendar : Seafood fests in Belmar , Stone Harbor ; wine in … – The Star-Ledger

The Jersey Shore is open — celebrate by cracking open some lobster and crabs at the Belmar Seafood Festival, one of the state’s most popular food festivals. Dozens of restaurants and food vendors will be serving up everything from traditional steamed lobster to alligator sausage today, Saturday and Sunday. There will also be live music, a wine and beer garden, crafts and children’s activities.

The festivities are at Siler Lake Park, 5th and Ocean Avenue. The hours are 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday. Admission is free.

The Stone Harbor Seafood Festival includes seafood dishes from local restaurants, plus a clam pitching tournament, live music, children’s activities and a display of boats and jet skis. Head over to the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce Beer Garden, 212 96th St., Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. Admission is free. Both seafood festivals are rain or shine.

And if you’d like a little Jersey-grown vino to wash down all those shrimp and scallops, head over to Lakewood’s FirstEnergy Park (2 Stadium Way) for the Jersey Shore Wine Festival. Jersey wineries will offer samples on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., with live music, crafts, food and a children’s play area. Admission is $20 at the gate for adults 21 years and older.

MORE NEW JERSEY FOOD EVENTS:

Food historian Judith Krall-Russo will talk about the Jersey tomato at the Warren County Library in Blairstown Saturday. Star-Ledger file photo

BLAIRSTOWN “The Jersey Tomato,” discussion led by food historian Judith Krall-Russo, 1 p.m. Saturday. Catherine Dickson Hofman Branch, Warren County Library, 4 Lambert Road. (908) 362-8335.

BLAIRSTOWN Strawberry Festival, all-you-can-eat ham, German potato salad, baked beans, fresh strawberries, ice cream, 4:30-7 p.m. Saturday. $12.50, ages 6 and younger $6. Walnut Valley United Methodist Church, Vail Road. (908) 459-4419.

FREEHOLD New England Clam Bake, coleslaw, New England clam chowder, steamed clams, barbecue chicken quarter, boiled potato, corn on the cob, biscuits, apple pie, coffee and tea, 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday. $16. Registration required. Knights of Columbus Council 1672, 70 E. Main St. (917) 586-7349.

JERSEY CITY

Summer food-and-culture festivals deliver international flavours in Vancouver

Greek Day
(June 23 on West Broadway between Macdonald and Blenheim streets)
Once the summer solstice has passed, marking the start of summer gorging fun, you have no excuse not to attend this kick-ass Greek street party. And this year it’s bigger than ever, with an expanded kids’ zone that includes a dairy cow and calf on-site and two Hellenic Experiences tents offering samples of items like Greek coffee and feta cheese. Watch folkloric Hellenic performances while you pig out on all sorts of goodies like souvlaki, roast lamb, spanakopita, and, best of all, loukoumades—little doughnuts soaked in honey syrup. “There are over two dozen food vendors, so it’s definitely a foodie event,” says event coordinator Nick Pogor by phone. See www.greekday.com/.

Carnaval del Sol
(July 6 and 7 on Granville Street between Smithe and Dunsmuir streets)
Get into full-throttle summer mode at this Latin American fest, where there’s plenty of tango, salsa, and samba music and dancing to shake out that No Fun Vancouver mentality. Add a street soccer tournament and plenty of activities for children—like Juego de Sapo, an Incan token-tossing game—and you’ve got a guaranteed good time for the whole family. Oh, and dig into Latin food, such as Mexican tacos and burritos, Cuban pan con lechon (roast-pork sandwiches), and Salvadoran pupusas. See www.carnavaldelsol.com/.

Caribbean Days
(July 27 and 28 at Waterfront Park [just west of Lonsdale Quay], North Vancouver)
It’s the height of summer, and who better to bask in the sun with than heat-lovin’ islanders? Get the good times started by catching the vibrant carnival parade down Lonsdale and Esplanade avenues, then jive at Waterfront Park to calypso, reggae, and Latin live music. All your favourite Caribbean eats will be on offer, including jerk chicken, flying fish, roti, and Jamaican rice pilau, as well as other options like souvlaki. If the weather is scorching, cool down with refreshing ginger beer or coconut water, or head to the beer garden for highly popular, thirst-quenching Carib Lager. “It goes as fast as it comes,” says festival manager Victor Bryan during a phone chat. See www.caribbeandays.ca/.

Powell Street Festival
(August 3 and 4 at Oppenheimer Park [400 block of Powell Street])
Kick off the last glorious month before school starts up again in September with a day out at this diverse celebration of Japanese-Canadian arts, culture, and food. “Our theme this year is ‘Champion’, involving artists who have gone through different challenges and created very dynamic work,” explains festival general manager Kristen Lambertson during a phone interview with the Straight. Take in cosplay as you munch away on some sake-flavoured ice cream, yakisoba, chicken karaage, and cold ramen salad. Or you could indulge in Japanese waffles, pork miso katsu sandwiches, and matcha and white chocolate macarons at the Jackson Street marketplace. See www.powellstreetfestival.com/.

Telus TaiwanFest
(August 31 to September 2 in the 600 to 800 blocks of Granville Street and the Vancouver Art Gallery plaza [801 West Georgia Street])
Before you pull out the fall turtlenecks, consider a long-weekend staycation with a visit to TaiwanFest. This year’s theme is “The Children of the Ocean”, so expect dishes that incorporate local seafood. Granville Street will be transformed into one big street banquet, with dishes by two top Taiwanese chefs: “brave chef” Ching-Yung Chen and “hot and spicy chef” Cheng-Chung Chen. On offer will be items such as pumpkin seafood rice noodles, seaweed-wrapped salmon, prawns with lemon and hot peppers, and the “hottest mussels in town”. If you think you’re bubble-tea hot stuff, enter the bubble-tea making contest. “You have to be an entertainer and a mover and a shaker to win,” says managing director Charlie Wu with a laugh. See www.taiwanfest.ca/.

Illinois summer festivals and fairs make for can’t-miss family memories

Summer travel season is here, and now is the perfect time to plan an Illinois adventure. From music festivals and art fairs, to food festivals and celebrations honoring heroes, an Illinois getaway this summer ensures you’ll have distinct summer vacation memories for years to come.

“Summer is the height of festival season and Illinois boasts hundreds of events throughout the state – celebrating everything from bagels and horseradish to hot air balloons and tall ships,” said Jen Hoelzle, deputy director of the Illinois Office of Tourism.

In addition to the fun festivals listed below, travelers can discover a complete list of events and plan their trip at the completely re-imagined enjoyillinois.com, where they can also download the Enjoy Illinois travel app and request a free 2013 Illinois Travel Guide.

Festivals include:

• Find living history seven days a week this summer in Springfield. The popular History Comes Alive program is back again this year and better than ever. Take a step back in time at President Abraham Lincoln’s Springfield, which includes free interactive experiences at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Old State Capitol and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. For more information, visit visit-springfieldillinois.com.

• Bagel lovers can celebrate three days dedicated to the round morsels of goodness at the Mattoon Bagelfest from July 18-20. Started by Bagel Factory owner Murray Lender as a free bagel breakfast for the City of Mattoon, the excitement evolved into what is now Bagelfest. The event highlights the best of the Mattoon community, including food, music and carnival entertainment. For more information, visit mattoonbagelfest.com.

• Take a trip back to the Civil War era at Lincoln’s Bloomington Festival and Civil War Days from July 20-21. Sites throughout the area will host Civil War re-enactors, including the McLean County Museum of History and David Davis Mansion. Tour the historic landmarks, watch traditional craft demonstrations and listen to musical performances. For more information, visit mchistory.org.

• The annual Illinois State Fair, from Aug. 8-18 in Springfield, features 10 days of entertainment and excitement, including concerts, carnival rides, food, contests, livestock shows and auto racing. This year’s grandstand lineup includes pop artists John Mayer and KE$HA, country megastars Toby Keith and The Band Perry, and rock legend Journey. For more information, visit agr.state.il.us/isf.

• The 9th annual Southern Illinois Music Festival takes place June 4-23 in venues across the region, from Sesser to Cairo and Murphysboro to Marion. Music lovers can choose from over three dozen performances to attend. The festival includes the New Chicago Chamber Orchestra and musicians from throughout North and South America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit sifest.com.

• Travelers can experience over 100 years of farming history and innovations in Illinois at the American Thresherman Show in Pinckneyville, Aug. 14-18. The show gives visitors a chance to get up close and personal with a variety of equipment and agricultural technologies, providing a unique glimpse into Illinois’ rich farming culture. For more information, visit americanthresherman.com.

• The Centralia Balloon Fest, Aug. 16-18, features over 40 hot air balloons to keep visitors’ eyes to the skies. The festival is the perfect family-friendly event, with a craft fair, children’s activities, a car show, balloon glows and fireworks. After taking in all of the colorful balloons, visitors can enjoy live music on the main entertainment stage each evening. For more information, visit balloon-fest.com.

• Visitors can experience one of Illinois’ longest-running fairs at the DuQuoin State Fair in DuQuoin, Aug. 23-Sept. 2. The fair features a unique theme each day on 1,200 beautiful acres filled with ponds, streams and open pastures. The fair offers livestock shows, live music, horse and car races and a food and wine products show. For more information, visit agr.state.il.us.

Summer food festivals deliver international flavours in Vancouver

Greek Day
(June 23 on West Broadway between Macdonald and Blenheim streets)
Once the summer solstice has passed, marking the start of summer gorging fun, you have no excuse not to attend this kick-ass Greek street party. And this year it’s bigger than ever, with an expanded kids’ zone that includes a dairy cow and calf on-site and two Hellenic Experiences tents offering samples of items like Greek coffee and feta cheese. Watch folkloric Hellenic performances while you pig out on all sorts of goodies like souvlaki, roast lamb, spanakopita, and, best of all, loukoumades—little doughnuts soaked in honey syrup. “There are over two dozen food vendors, so it’s definitely a foodie event,” says event coordinator Nick Pogor by phone. See www.greekday.com/.

Carnaval del Sol
(July 6 and 7 on Granville Street between Smithe and West Hastings streets)
Get into full-throttle summer mode at this Latin American fest, where there’s plenty of tango, salsa, and samba music and dancing to shake out that No Fun Vancouver mentality. Add a street soccer tournament and plenty of activities for children—like Juego de Sapo, an Incan token-tossing game—and you’ve got a guaranteed good time for the whole family. Oh, and most importantly, dig into a wide range of Latin food, such as Peruvian tamales and quinoa cake, Mexican tacos and burritos, Chilean empanadas, Brazilian feijoada (pork-and-bean stew), Cuban pan con lechon (roast-pork sandwiches), and Salvadoran pupusas. See www.carnavaldelsol.com/.

Caribbean Days
(July 27 and 28 at Waterfront Park [just west of Lonsdale Quay], North Vancouver)
It’s the height of summer, and who better to bask in the sun with than heat-lovin’ islanders? Get the good times started by catching the vibrant carnival parade down Lonsdale and Esplanade avenues, then jive at Waterfront Park to calypso, reggae, and Latin live music. All your favourite Caribbean eats will be on offer, including jerk chicken, flying fish, roti, and Jamaican rice pilau, as well as other options like souvlaki. If the weather is scorching, cool down with refreshing ginger beer or coconut water, or head to the beer garden for highly popular, thirst-quenching Carib Lager. “It goes as fast as it comes,” says festival manager Victor Bryan during a phone chat. See www.caribbeandays.ca/.

Powell Street Festival
(August 3 and 4 at Oppenheimer Park [400 block of Powell Street])
Kick off the last glorious month before school starts up again in September with a day out at this diverse celebration of Japanese-Canadian arts, culture, and food. “Our theme this year is ‘Champion’, involving artists who have gone through different challenges and created very dynamic work,” explains festival general manager Kristen Lambertson during a phone interview with the Straight. Take in cosplay as you munch away on some sake-flavoured ice cream, yakisoba, chicken karaage, and cold ramen salad. Or you could indulge in Japanese waffles, pork miso katsu sandwiches, and matcha and white chocolate macarons at the Jackson Street marketplace. See www.powellstreetfestival.com/.

Telus TaiwanFest
(August 31 to September 2 in the 600 to 800 blocks of Granville Street and the Vancouver Art Gallery plaza [801 West Georgia Street])
Before you pull out the fall turtlenecks, consider a long-weekend staycation with a visit to TaiwanFest. This year’s theme is “The Children of the Ocean”, so expect dishes that incorporate local seafood. Granville Street will be transformed into one big street banquet, with dishes by two top Taiwanese chefs: “brave chef” Ching-Yung Chen and “hot and spicy chef” Cheng-Chung Chen. On offer will be items such as pumpkin seafood rice noodles, seaweed-wrapped salmon, prawns with lemon and hot peppers, and the “hottest mussels in town”. If you think you’re bubble-tea hot stuff, enter the bubble-tea making contest. “You have to be an entertainer and a mover and a shaker to win,” says managing director Charlie Wu with a laugh. See www.taiwanfest.ca/.

The Week in Beer: Music, Food, Festivals, and Fairs

Thursday, June 13

Captain Joe’s Grill, 9901 N. Main, Whitmore Lake, plays host to Witch’s Hat Brewing, who will be taking over six taps with their funky fresh brews beginning at 6:30 p.m. Check out the Captain Joe’s website for other upcoming tap takeovers, happening the second Thursday of every month.

Fruit beers are pouring at Arbor Brewing, 114 E. Washington, from 7-9 p.m. during this month’s tasting event. More than two dozen brews, including everything from blueberry stouts to tart Belgian kriek (cherry) lambics, will combine with an appetizer buffet and prize drawings for an evening full of awesome. Tickets are $30; pick up yours at the brewpub or call 734-213-1393.

Friday, June 14

The Hatter Days tour rolls into Whole Foods Cranbrook, 990 W. Eisenhower, from 5-7 p.m. when brewery representative Jimmy joins the Wine and Beer Bar folks as they tap into eight New Holland beers from the Hatter series (and possibly some other favorites). Good times!

From 6-9 p.m., Main St. will be blocked off in downtown Ann Arbor for the 13th annual Mayor’s Green Fair. The really important part of this event, however, is Arbor Brewing’s zero-waste Beer Garden outside on Washington St. from 6-11 p.m. There, you can try a variety of one-off special beers brewed in collaboration with the likes of Wolverine State Brewing’s Oliver Roberts, Jolly Pumpkin’s Ron Jeffries, Original Gravity’s Brad Sancho, Dark Horse’s Bryan Wiggs, and Bill Gerds (formerly of Arbor and Cranker’s Brewery in Big Rapids). Roots-rockers Rootstand will supply the live grooves. No cover.

Saturday, June 15

Original Gravity, 440 County, Milan, turns five and is celebrating in style with a fifth anniversary blowout beginning at 11:30 a.m. In addition to the normal OG beer lineup, there will be 10 different IPAs pouring along with mouthwatering food from Red Rock Downtown Barbecue beginning at 2 and going until it runs out. Live music starts at 5, and there will, of course, be a beer tent on the newly renovated patio. Party time! Excellent!

Sunday, June 16

Happy Father’s Day! Take Dad out for a beer at the Wolverine State Brewing taproom, 2019 W. Stadium, and Wolverine will buy the old man’s first brew. Or check out the Father’s Day brunch at the Corner Brewery, 720 Norris, Ypsilanti, beginning at 10 a.m. with a menu of sumptuous breakfast options and beer to enjoy while the Bob Skon Trio serenades you and your pappy. No cover.

Tuesday, June 18

The Ann Arbor Summer Festival is in full swing, and happily, good beer is part of the festivities. Every Tuesday throughout the AASF, visit the Top of the Park Beverage Garden for a special beer tasting from 5-8 p.m., sponsored by OW. Tonight’s guest brewery is Right Brain Brewing from Traverse City. There’s a $15 fee for each tasting; check the AASF website for more information on upcoming breweries.

Wednesday, June 19

Roll out the barrels, or at least the barrel-aged beers! Ashley’s, 338 S. State, will tap six of them at 6 p.m., including North Coast Barrel Aged Old Rasputin Imperial Stout, Anderson Valley Wild Turkey Bourbon Barrel Stout, Arbor Brewing Barrel Aged Olde Number 22 Altbier, Short’s Bourbon Barrel Aged Aphasia Old Ale and Sustenance Schwarzbier, and Bell’s Black Note Stout. Whew. Better get your drinking muscles in shape.

Thursday, June 20

Celebrate the summer solstice with a special performance of Kevin the Glen Levens beginning at 8:30 p.m. at the Wolverine taproom, where many hoppy new brews are pouring like Au Sable Rye India Pale Lager and Virtuous White IPL. No cover.

Notes on the Napkin

On tap at Arbor Brewing is Festival Saison, every glass of which kicks back a portion of the cost to support the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Drink up!
Tickets are going fast for Wolverine’s annual bus trip to see the Detroit Tigers July 28. For $70 you get brunch, one ticket to the game, bus ride to and from The D including beer, and one buttload of fun. Drop by the taproom to sign up or call 734-369-2990 and check out the Wolverine Beer Wench’s blog for the latest brewery news. (And in case your baseball schedule isn’t handy: The Tigers’ opponent on July 28 is the Phillies.)
Grange Kitchen Bar, 118 W. Liberty, is taking reservations for its June 26 Dark Horse beer dinner. The cost is $60 (excluding tax and tip) for five courses of seasonal, locally sourced goodness paired with good Michigan beer. Call 734-995-2107 or buy online.
The new World of Beer Ann Arbor, 1300 South University, is scheduled to open July 1 with a grand opening party featuring raffles, giveaways, live music, and, well, beers: 40 on tap and 500 in bottles. In the meantime, they’re running a “refer your friends” contest on their Facebook page, the winner of which will receive a $50 gift card and a six-pack of something good. See the page for details on how it all works.

10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Maine Lobster Festival — Rockland, ME.
20,000 pounds of lobster. That’s what attendees can expect from this crustacean-craver’s haven of bliss. And if filling up on all that fresh seafood leaves you fitness-conscious, contestants can sign up for a Lobster Crate Race. Just be sure to remember the 30-minutes-after-eating rule.When: July 31-Aug. 4. Admission: Wed: $5/adults, $2/children. Thurs-Sat: $8/adults, $2/children.
Image credit: mainelobsterfestival.com
Taste of Chicago — Chicago, Ill.
Touted as the world’s largest of the food fest lot, attendees can get their fill and then some by sampling over 300 local flavors. Complementing the main food courses with live music this year include Robert Plant, Robin Thicke and Jill Scott. When: July 10-14. Admission: free. Food and beverage tickets: 12 for $8.
cityofchicago.orgImage credit: Getty
Vermont Cheesemakers Festival — Websterville, Vt.
Who doesn’t love cheese? Rhetorical questions aside, the real dairy dilemma will be just which of the 100 cheeses from 40 local creameries you’ll start with. Butter, smoked meats, and cider round out the artisanal menu. Don’t forget to also leave room for wine. We hear they go great together.
When: July 21. Admission: $50.
Image credit: vtcheesefest.com
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off — Sparks, Nev.
Here’s the rub: If you like ribs, there’s no better place to be than this great gastronomic feast that competes to win over your taste buds. Music, meats, and crafts (of the art and beer variety) make for a family-friendly way to cap off the summer.
When: Aug. 28-Sept. 2. Admission: Free.
Image credit: nuggetribcookoff.com
Outside Lands — San Fransisco, Calif.
Music may take center stage with the likes of Paul McCartney, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Vampire Weekend slated to perform this year, but when the wine lands and the beer lands lists rival that of the band lineup, you know they’re not forgetting the meat and potatoes at this San Fran bonanza. Did we mention it strives for sustainability? Remember that when disposing that wad of greasy napkins.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: 3-day ticket/$249.50.
Image credit: sfoutsidelands.com
Pittston Tomato Festival — Pittston, Pa.
It’s the best of homegrown fun: pageants, contests, live entertainment, games and… tomato fights? That’s right: Pay $5 to make like a disgruntled vaudevillian spectator by slugging as many as you like at your friends. You can tell them it’s for charity (because it is).
When: Aug. 15-18. Admission: Free.
Image credit: Peachadella Andreano pittstontomatofestival.com
Atlantic City Food Wine Festival — Atlantic City, N.J.
For fans of famous foodies looking to meet, greet and then eat, look no further than the Food Network-sponsored fest that features headliners like Robert Irvine, Rocco Dispirito and a host of other chef personalities who’ve come to tantalize your taste buds.
When: July 25-28. Admission: Per Event.
Image credit: Tom Briglia/Mike Manger caesars.com/foodandwine
The Bite of Oregon — Portland, Ore.
Fans of good food and funny television know Portland’s star is rising, and that’s not the beer talking. Well, it is when you consider the craft beer scene, which is as serious as the fest’s aim to become a zero-waste affair. What’s more? Those chowing down on their guilty pleasures (however artisanal) will feel better knowing proceeds will go to benefit Special Olympics Oregon.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: TBD.
Image credit: biteoforegon.com
Kentucky Bourbon Festival — Bardstown, Ky.
The state of Kentucky conjures many things — chicken likely being one. But that’s not the main attraction here (though there will be breaded birds, no doubt). Celebrating a rich history of bourbon, the six-day fest isn’t just for the 21-and-up, either. Bardstown promises as much family-friendly entertainment as it does bourbon for one’s buck — which should come as no surprise from a city that views its distillation process as less of a science and more as a fine art.
When: Sept. 17-22. Admission: On sale by phone only.
Image credit: kybourbonfestival.com
Lollapalooza — Chicago, Ill.
It’s a music festival with a food festival to rival its own main stage. Zoned off from the hordes of hipsters, Chow Town is overseen by celeb chef Graham Elliot, who hand-picks the vendors responsible for feeding some 100,000 mouths daily. Tickets are hard to come by, but when there’s a hunger, there’s a way (and its name is StubHub).
When: Aug. 2-4. Admission: Sold out.
Image credit: whfs.cbslocal.com lollapalooza.com
When motoring along the food fest circuit, it’s best to travel with an appetite as full as your tank. Luckily, the 2013 MINI Coupe has the latter covered, boasting outstanding fuel efficiency and just enough two-seat space for you and your favorite foodie in your collective pursuit of finer fast food (sans the drive-thru).
Image credit: miniusa.com
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There are few things in this world more unifying than food. And while showers and flowers may belong to spring, and football to fall, the American summer belongs to the culinary quirks and decadent desserts of food festivals.

Foodies and bon vivants hungry for adventure rejoice: We’ve rounded up some of our favorite fests, big and small, sure to please any palate this summer.

You bring the appetite; we’ll supply the list.

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10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Maine Lobster Festival — Rockland, ME.
20,000 pounds of lobster. That’s what attendees can expect from this crustacean-craver’s haven of bliss. And if filling up on all that fresh seafood leaves you fitness-conscious, contestants can sign up for a Lobster Crate Race. Just be sure to remember the 30-minutes-after-eating rule.When: July 31-Aug. 4. Admission: Wed: $5/adults, $2/children. Thurs-Sat: $8/adults, $2/children.
Image credit: mainelobsterfestival.com
Taste of Chicago — Chicago, Ill.
Touted as the world’s largest of the food fest lot, attendees can get their fill and then some by sampling over 300 local flavors. Complementing the main food courses with live music this year include Robert Plant, Robin Thicke and Jill Scott. When: July 10-14. Admission: free. Food and beverage tickets: 12 for $8.
cityofchicago.orgImage credit: Getty
Vermont Cheesemakers Festival — Websterville, Vt.
Who doesn’t love cheese? Rhetorical questions aside, the real dairy dilemma will be just which of the 100 cheeses from 40 local creameries you’ll start with. Butter, smoked meats, and cider round out the artisanal menu. Don’t forget to also leave room for wine. We hear they go great together.
When: July 21. Admission: $50.
Image credit: vtcheesefest.com
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off — Sparks, Nev.
Here’s the rub: If you like ribs, there’s no better place to be than this great gastronomic feast that competes to win over your taste buds. Music, meats, and crafts (of the art and beer variety) make for a family-friendly way to cap off the summer.
When: Aug. 28-Sept. 2. Admission: Free.
Image credit: nuggetribcookoff.com
Outside Lands — San Fransisco, Calif.
Music may take center stage with the likes of Paul McCartney, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Vampire Weekend slated to perform this year, but when the wine lands and the beer lands lists rival that of the band lineup, you know they’re not forgetting the meat and potatoes at this San Fran bonanza. Did we mention it strives for sustainability? Remember that when disposing that wad of greasy napkins.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: 3-day ticket/$249.50.
Image credit: sfoutsidelands.com
Pittston Tomato Festival — Pittston, Pa.
It’s the best of homegrown fun: pageants, contests, live entertainment, games and… tomato fights? That’s right: Pay $5 to make like a disgruntled vaudevillian spectator by slugging as many as you like at your friends. You can tell them it’s for charity (because it is).
When: Aug. 15-18. Admission: Free.
Image credit: Peachadella Andreano pittstontomatofestival.com
Atlantic City Food Wine Festival — Atlantic City, N.J.
For fans of famous foodies looking to meet, greet and then eat, look no further than the Food Network-sponsored fest that features headliners like Robert Irvine, Rocco Dispirito and a host of other chef personalities who’ve come to tantalize your taste buds.
When: July 25-28. Admission: Per Event.
Image credit: Tom Briglia/Mike Manger caesars.com/foodandwine
The Bite of Oregon — Portland, Ore.
Fans of good food and funny television know Portland’s star is rising, and that’s not the beer talking. Well, it is when you consider the craft beer scene, which is as serious as the fest’s aim to become a zero-waste affair. What’s more? Those chowing down on their guilty pleasures (however artisanal) will feel better knowing proceeds will go to benefit Special Olympics Oregon.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: TBD.
Image credit: biteoforegon.com
Kentucky Bourbon Festival — Bardstown, Ky.
The state of Kentucky conjures many things — chicken likely being one. But that’s not the main attraction here (though there will be breaded birds, no doubt). Celebrating a rich history of bourbon, the six-day fest isn’t just for the 21-and-up, either. Bardstown promises as much family-friendly entertainment as it does bourbon for one’s buck — which should come as no surprise from a city that views its distillation process as less of a science and more as a fine art.
When: Sept. 17-22. Admission: On sale by phone only.
Image credit: kybourbonfestival.com
Lollapalooza — Chicago, Ill.
It’s a music festival with a food festival to rival its own main stage. Zoned off from the hordes of hipsters, Chow Town is overseen by celeb chef Graham Elliot, who hand-picks the vendors responsible for feeding some 100,000 mouths daily. Tickets are hard to come by, but when there’s a hunger, there’s a way (and its name is StubHub).
When: Aug. 2-4. Admission: Sold out.
Image credit: whfs.cbslocal.com lollapalooza.com
When motoring along the food fest circuit, it’s best to travel with an appetite as full as your tank. Luckily, the 2013 MINI Coupe has the latter covered, boasting outstanding fuel efficiency and just enough two-seat space for you and your favorite foodie in your collective pursuit of finer fast food (sans the drive-thru).
Image credit: miniusa.com
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Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Maine Lobster Festival — Maine, N.Y.
20,000 pounds of lobster. That’s what attendees can expect from this crustacean-craver’s haven of bliss. And if filling up on all that fresh seafood leaves you fitness-conscious, contestants can sign up for a Lobster Crate Race. Just be sure to remember the 30-minutes-after-eating rule.When: July 31-Aug. 4. Admission: Wed: $5/adults, $2/children. Thurs-Sat: $8/adults, $2/children.
Image credit: mainelobsterfestival.com
Taste of Chicago — Chicago, Ill.
Touted as the world’s largest of the food fest lot, attendees can get their fill and then some by sampling over 300 local flavors. Complementing the main food courses with live music this year include Robert Plant, Robin Thicke and Jill Scott. When: July 10-14. Admission: free. Food and beverage tickets: 12 for $8.
cityofchicago.orgImage credit: Getty
Vermont Cheesemakers Festival — Websterville, Vt.
Who doesn’t love cheese? Rhetorical questions aside, the real dairy dilemma will be just which of the 100 cheeses from 40 local creameries you’ll start with. Butter, smoked meats, and cider round out the artisanal menu. Don’t forget to also leave room for wine. We hear they go great together.
When: July 21. Admission: $50.
Image credit: vtcheesefest.com
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off — Sparks, Nev.
Here’s the rub: If you like ribs, there’s no better place to be than this great gastronomic feast that competes to win over your taste buds. Music, meats, and crafts (of the art and beer variety) make for a family-friendly way to cap off the summer.
When: Aug. 28-Sept. 2. Admission: Free.
Image credit: nuggetribcookoff.com
Outside Lands — San Fransisco, Calif.
Music may take center stage with the likes of Paul McCartney, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Vampire Weekend slated to perform this year, but when the wine lands and the beer lands lists rival that of the band lineup, you know they’re not forgetting the meat and potatoes at this San Fran bonanza. Did we mention it strives for sustainability? Remember that when disposing that wad of greasy napkins.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: 3-day ticket/$249.50.
Image credit: sfoutsidelands.com
Pittston Tomato Festival — Pittston, Pa.
It’s the best of homegrown fun: pageants, contests, live entertainment, games and… tomato fights? That’s right: Pay $5 to make like a disgruntled vaudevillian spectator by slugging as many as you like at your friends. You can tell them it’s for charity (because it is).
When: Aug. 15-18. Admission: Free.
Image credit: Peachadella Andreano pittstontomatofestival.com
Atlantic City Food Wine Festival — Atlantic City, N.J.
For fans of famous foodies looking to meet, greet and then eat, look no further than the Food Network-sponsored fest that features headliners like Robert Irvine, Rocco Dispirito and a host of other chef personalities who’ve come to tantalize your taste buds.
When: July 25-28. Admission: Per Event.
Image credit: Tom Briglia/Mike Manger caesars.com/foodandwine
The Bite of Oregon — Portland, Ore.
Fans of good food and funny television know Portland’s star is rising, and that’s not the beer talking. Well, it is when you consider the craft beer scene, which is as serious as the fest’s aim to become a zero-waste affair. What’s more? Those chowing down on their guilty pleasures (however artisanal) will feel better knowing proceeds will go to benefit Special Olympics Oregon.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: TBD.
Image credit: biteoforegon.com
Kentucky Bourbon Festival — Bardstown, Ky.
The state of Kentucky conjures many things — chicken likely being one. But that’s not the main attraction here (though there will be breaded birds, no doubt). Celebrating a rich history of bourbon, the six-day fest isn’t just for the 21-and-up, either. Bardstown promises as much family-friendly entertainment as it does bourbon for one’s buck — which should come as no surprise from a city that views its distillation process as less of a science and more as a fine art.
When: Sept. 17-22. Admission: On sale by phone only.
Image credit: kybourbonfestival.com
Lollapalooza — Chicago, Ill.
It’s a music festival with a food festival to rival its own main stage. Zoned off from the hordes of hipsters, Chow Town is overseen by celeb chef Graham Elliot, who hand-picks the vendors responsible for feeding some 100,000 mouths daily. Tickets are hard to come by, but when there’s a hunger, there’s a way (and its name is StubHub).
When: Aug. 2-4. Admission: Sold out.
Image credit: whfs.cbslocal.com lollapalooza.com
When motoring along the food fest circuit, it’s best to travel with an appetite as full as your tank. Luckily, the 2013 MINI Coupe has the latter covered, boasting outstanding fuel efficiency and just enough two-seat space for you and your favorite foodie in your collective pursuit of finer fast food (sans the drive-thru).
Image credit: miniusa.com
Recent Slide Shows

There are few things in this world more unifying than food. And while showers and flowers may belong to spring, and football to fall, the American summer belongs to the culinary quirks and decadent desserts of food festivals.

Foodies and bon vivants hungry for adventure rejoice: We’ve rounded up some of our favorite fests, big and small, sure to please any palate this summer.

You bring the appetite; we’ll supply the list.

More Salon Staff.

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Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Maine Lobster Festival — Maine, N.Y.
20,000 pounds of lobster. That’s what attendees can expect from this crustacean-craver’s haven of bliss. And if filling up on all that fresh seafood leaves you fitness-conscious, contestants can sign up for a Lobster Crate Race. Just be sure to remember the 30-minutes-after-eating rule.When: July 31-Aug. 4. Admission: Wed: $5/adults, $2/children. Thurs-Sat: $8/adults, $2/children.
Image credit: mainelobsterfestival.com
Taste of Chicago — Chicago, Ill.
Touted as the world’s largest of the food fest lot, attendees can get their fill and then some by sampling over 300 local flavors. Complementing the main food courses with live music this year include Robert Plant, Robin Thicke and Jill Scott. When: July 10-14. Admission: free. Food and beverage tickets: 12 for $8.
cityofchicago.orgImage credit: Getty
Vermont Cheesemakers Festival — Websterville, Vt.
Who doesn’t love cheese? Rhetorical questions aside, the real dairy dilemma will be just which of the 100 cheeses from 40 local creameries you’ll start with. Butter, smoked meats, and cider round out the artisanal menu. Don’t forget to also leave room for wine. We hear they go great together.
When: July 21. Admission: $50.
Image credit: vtcheesefest.com
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off — Sparks, Nev.
Here’s the rub: If you like ribs, there’s no better place to be than this great gastronomic feast that competes to win over your taste buds. Music, meats, and crafts (of the art and beer variety) make for a family-friendly way to cap off the summer.
When: Aug. 28-Sept. 2. Admission: Free.
Image credit: nuggetribcookoff.com
Outside Lands — San Fransisco, Calif.
Music may take center stage with the likes of Paul McCartney, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Vampire Weekend slated to perform this year, but when the wine lands and the beer lands lists rival that of the band lineup, you know they’re not forgetting the meat and potatoes at this San Fran bonanza. Did we mention it strives for sustainability? Remember that when disposing that wad of greasy napkins.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: 3-day ticket/$249.50.
Image credit: sfoutsidelands.com
Pittston Tomato Festival — Pittston, Pa.
It’s the best of homegrown fun: pageants, contests, live entertainment, games and… tomato fights? That’s right: Pay $5 to make like a disgruntled vaudevillian spectator by slugging as many as you like at your friends. You can tell them it’s for charity (because it is).
When: Aug. 15-18. Admission: Free.
Image credit: Peachadella Andreano pittstontomatofestival.com
Atlantic City Food Wine Festival — Atlantic City, N.J.
For fans of famous foodies looking to meet, greet and then eat, look no further than the Food Network-sponsored fest that features headliners like Robert Irvine, Rocco Dispirito and a host of other chef personalities who’ve come to tantalize your taste buds.
When: July 25-28. Admission: Per Event.
Image credit: Tom Briglia/Mike Manger caesars.com/foodandwine
The Bite of Oregon — Portland, Ore.
Fans of good food and funny television know Portland’s star is rising, and that’s not the beer talking. Well, it is when you consider the craft beer scene, which is as serious as the fest’s aim to become a zero-waste affair. What’s more? Those chowing down on their guilty pleasures (however artisanal) will feel better knowing proceeds will go to benefit Special Olympics Oregon.
When: Aug. 9-11. Admission: TBD.
Image credit: biteoforegon.com
Kentucky Bourbon Festival — Bardstown, Ky.
The state of Kentucky conjures many things — chicken likely being one. But that’s not the main attraction here (though there will be breaded birds, no doubt). Celebrating a rich history of bourbon, the six-day fest isn’t just for the 21-and-up, either. Bardstown promises as much family-friendly entertainment as it does bourbon for one’s buck — which should come as no surprise from a city that views its distillation process as less of a science and more as a fine art.
When: Sept. 17-22. Admission: On sale by phone only.
Image credit: kybourbonfestival.com
Lollapalooza — Chicago, Ill.
It’s a music festival with a food festival to rival its own main stage. Zoned off from the hordes of hipsters, Chow Town is overseen by celeb chef Graham Elliot, who hand-picks the vendors responsible for feeding some 100,000 mouths daily. Tickets are hard to come by, but when there’s a hunger, there’s a way (and its name is StubHub).
When: Aug. 2-4. Admission: Sold out.
Image credit: whfs.cbslocal.com lollapalooza.com
When motoring along the food fest circuit, it’s best to travel with an appetite as full as your tank. Luckily, the 2013 MINI Coupe has the latter covered, boasting outstanding fuel efficiency and just enough two-seat space for you and your favorite foodie in your collective pursuit of finer fast food (sans the drive-thru).
Image credit: miniusa.com
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How to Navigate Food Festivals

Bon Appétit

Surviving a food safari is all about preparation (Credit: Erik S. Peterson)

We’re now entering serious food festival season and many more will be rolling out across the country all summer. (This includes Bon Appetit’s own Grub Crawl events in New York, Chicago, and Charleston!) As we all know, these things can be rough: long lines, high temperatures, food shortages, and so on. They can also be awesome — if you know what you’re doing.

But how do you know if a line is too long? How can you tell if a reputed chef is hawking lazy leftovers or her next genius creation? When should you invest in a VIP pass? We canvassed the BA staff for their golden nuggets of wisdom, and now we have answers.

See more: The Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie

Christine Muhlke, Executive Editor
* Years ago, while figuring out where the heck to eat in Corsica, an island with only one (very bad) restaurant guide, a chef told me, “It’s easy: Look for the happy people.” So as much as I hate lines, I’m usually much happier with the food that I wait for than with what I end up with at the near-empty table. It’s empty for a reason. Bonus: When standing in line, you can ask people where else they’ve eaten that they loved. Strangers are always happy to talk about food.
* Be the loser who gets there on time. That way you can eat everything before everyone wakes up, then hit your favorites a second time.
* Educate yourself: If you’re traveling out of town to eat (see: Jazzfest, Taste of Chicago), either try to go with a local or read as much local press about the participants as you can ahead of time.
* If you’re a super eco dork like me, bring your own reusable silverware and refillable cup. And Wet Wipes…

See more: Spring Pasta Recipes

Andrew Knowlton, Restaurant and Drinks Editor
* Pay the extra money to get a VIP ticket or at least a ticket that gets you in early. As Christine Muhlke says, “A little lanyard goes a long way.”
* Divide and conquer: Split up the group you are with so each of you can wait in separate lines for food. Reconvene at determined spot and let the picnic begin.
* Everyone will probably be drinking beer and wine so see if the booze lines are shorter. Nothing beats a highball in the middle of the day.

Carla Lalli Music, Food and Features Editor
* Eat a little something before you go. It will help keep the cheerfulness up while waiting in line.
* Bring your own beverages, if you’re allowed.

Meryl Rothstein, Senior Associate Editor
* Don’t go to places you go to in real life. In other words, do you LOVE Roberta’s? Then don’t go to their stand. Because you’ve been there before, and you already have a good idea of what the restaurant can do. One of the fun things about festivals if that they’ve rounded up all these places from across the city (or country, sometimes) and are bringing them to one place. Use it as an opportunity to try restaurants you normally don’t get to go to.

Adam Rapoport, Editor in Chief
* Wear sunscreen.
* Drink, obviously. But also drink water.

Follow Bon Appetit on Twitter:

www.twitter.com/bonappetit

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Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Recent Slide Shows

Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

The week in 10 pics

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9 amazing drive-in movie theaters still standing

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Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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Fuel up: 10 summer food festivals worth the pit stop

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9 amazing drive-in movie theaters still standing

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