The 2024 New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE) is set to celebrate its 32nd anniversary from June 5-9, 2024, showcasing the city’s renowned culinary and beverage scene. This premier event has become one of the most celebrated culinary festivals in the nation, drawing gourmands and connoisseurs alike. Over its 32-year history, NOWFE has raised over $1.5 million for local non-profits, supporting food banks, culinary schools and other community organizations, making it an event that not only delights the senses but also benefits the community.

The five-day festival features an array of unique programming including everything from wine dinners to main stage demonstrations across New Orleans. Highlights include Vinola, where guests can sample rare and highly valued wines paired with delectable foods crafted by local chefs. This intimate setting allows for one-on-one interactions with winemakers and chefs, offering attendees a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind wine and food.

Another standout event, the Tournament of Rosés, invites participants to taste premier rosés from around the world and vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice Awards. The Grand Tasting showcases wines from various global regions, paired with dishes from some of New Orleans’ finest chefs, providing a comprehensive tasting experience for both wine novices and connoisseurs.

In addition to these main events, NOWFE offers interactive Labs and Experiences that delve into New Orleans’ unique culture and style. These sessions might include tours of French Quarter wine cellars or blind tastings with renowned sommeliers and chefs, offering educational and immersive encounters.

This year’s festival promises not only a celebration of culinary excellence but also a continued commitment to giving back to the New Orleans community.

“It is NOWFE’s mission to make New Orleans a better place,” said Aimee Brown, NOWFE Executive Director. “This year, I’m proud to announce NOWFE’s Board of Directors has selected its beneficiaries to support NOWFE’s efforts in creating a thriving community. One hundred percent of our proceeds will go to the Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation (LRAEF), Delgado Community College Culinary Arts Program, and The Edible Schoolyard New Orleans.”

The LRAEF exists to enhance the industry’s service to the public through education, community engagement, and promotion of career opportunities. The three main programs that LRAEF offers are ProStart, a high school culinary and restaurant management program; the LRAEF Scholars, which provides scholarships to students pursuing a degree in culinary arts or hospitality; and the Restaurant Youth Registered Apprenticeship, which is an earn-as-your-learn program.

Delgado’s Culinary Arts Program offers students an opportunity to earn a Culinary Arts Associate degree with a concentration in Baking and Pastry Arts or as a Professional Culinarian. Students can also choose to receive a Culinary Arts Certificate in one of three areas of study: Culinary Management, Pastry Arts, and Culinary Arts: Line Cook.

Edible Schoolyard New Orleans is a signature program of FirstLine Schools, connecting children to food, the natural world, and community through nourishing environments, providing quality edible education, and fostering community within schools. The program aims to ensure the long-term well-being of students, families, and school communities by bringing hands-on kitchen and garden classes into the school curriculum and culture.

Whether you are a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, NOWFE provides a range of ticket packages and a la carte options to suit every interest level.

You can view the full list of events and purchase tickets here.

2024 New Orleans Wine & Food Experience