What do you get when you combine mouth-watering food, lively music, and enthusiastic crowds? Some of the most interesting food festivals in America, of course! From deep-fried delicacies to spicy international cuisine, food festivals are a great way to sample delicious treats and experience new cultures. With festivals taking place all across the country, there’s no shortage of tasty adventures to be had.
The National Buffalo Wing Festival – Buffalo, New York.
This festival, held over Labor Day weekend, celebrates all things buffalo wings. There’s a wing-eating contest, sauce competitions, and even a Miss Buffalo Wing pageant.
The Gilroy Garlic Festival – Gilroy, California.
This festival, held in July, celebrates all things garlic. From garlic ice cream to garlic-infused wine, you can try it all. There’s even a garlic cook-off, where chefs compete to make the best garlic-based dishes.
The Maine Lobster Festival – Rockland, Maine.
Held in August, this festival is a celebration of all things lobster. There’s a lobster crate race, where participants race across floating lobster crates in the harbor, as well as a seafood cooking contest and a parade.
The Memphis In May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest – Memphis, Tennessee.
This festival, held in May, is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. Over 200 teams are competing for the title of world champion, and visitors can sample some of the best barbecue in the country.
The Taco Festival – Phoenix, Arizona.
This festival, held in October, is a celebration of all things tacos. There are taco-eating contests, live music, and, of course, plenty of tacos to go around. From traditional carne asada to creative vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone.
