#1 Food, Wine & Restaurant Industry Event
The 36-year-old event invites guests to sample wines from the barrel, chat with winemakers, and explore Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys. Unlike other events of its kind, it’s strictly about the wine. It offers no food pairings but draws participation from some 140 wineries. Next: March 6-15, 2015
#2 Food, Wine & Restaurant Industry Event
In 2014, the event drew more than 80,000 guests. Held in Gilroy’s Christmas Hill Park, the festival offers garlicky fare, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and cooking demonstrations. Its revenue this year was approximately $1.7 million. Next: July 24-26, 2015
#3 Food, Wine & Restaurant Industry Event
Inspired by 7x7 magazine’s list of “100 Things to Eat in San Francisco Before You Die,” the event takes place at AT&T Park. It features bites from local restaurants, along with beer, wine, cocktails, and music. Next: Summer 2015
#4 Food, Wine & Restaurant Industry Event
Supporting the Food Craft Institute, the festival in Jack London Square offers street food, artisan beers, local wines, and food. All dishes are prepared using local ingredients. More than 500,000 guests have attended the event since it launched in 2009. Next: September 2015
#5 Food, Wine & Restaurant Industry Event
More than 30 vendors donate treats to help raise funds for Project Open Hand, and other highlights include a chocolate and wine pavilion, an ice-cream-eating contest, chef demonstrations, and a silent auction. Some 40,000 guests attend each year. Next: September 12-13, 2015
#6 Food, Wine & Restaurant Industry Event
Hosted by San Francisco magazine, the gathering brings the publication’s food-focused editorial to life. Restaurants, wineries, and epicurean artisans participate in the day, which includes wine and food tastings, a barbeque grill-off, and chef demonstrations. Next: Fall 2015
