The Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival (PBFWF) will be taking place December 11 to 14, 2025. More than just another food festival, this is one of the country’s most intimate and authentic culinary celebrations. Now in its 18th year, PBFWF brings together world-renowned chefs, winemakers, and culinary personalities for four days of exclusive dinners, fun tastings, and one-of-a-kind experiences that capture the heart of Palm Beach.
“When we started the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival, the vision was pretty simple: to bring people together around the table and celebrate incredible chefs, restaurants, and wines in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world,” says David Sabin, Festival Founder and Director. “That core vision hasn’t changed — it’s still about connection, storytelling, and creating unforgettable experiences through food and wine.”
What began as a handful of local events has blossomed into 22 experiences across Palm Beach County with chefs, winemakers, and culinary personalities traveling from across the globe to participate.
This year’s lineup highlights both signature events attendees have grown to love and plenty of fresh debuts. Guests can sip sparkling wines at Bubbles & Bites: A Yacht Rock Experience, feast on bites by top chefs at The Ben, and have brunch with Daniel Boulud and Friends at Cafe Boulud. Families can join kid-friendly cooking classes, while adventurous palates will find bold flavors at new events like Par-Tee at The Park and PBFWF at Oceano.
“Consumer tastes and expectations have evolved in recent years,” Sabin explains. “People are looking for more than just great food and wine. They want experiences that feel personal, meaningful, and memorable. Guests are curious. They want to know the stories behind the dishes, the sourcing of ingredients, and the inspiration of the chefs. At the same time, today’s festivalgoers expect a balance of indulgence and mindfulness, so sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity are all part of the conversation now.”
Unlike many large-scale festivals, PBFWF is designed to feel warm, welcoming, and deeply personal. Events are intentionally curated to foster conversations between guests and culinary talent, whether over a glass of Champagne poolside at The Belgrove Hotel or at a six-course dinner paired with vintages from Wine Spectator–recognized cellars.
“What really sets the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival apart is the intimacy and authenticity of the experience,” says Sabin. “Guests aren’t just attending an event; they’re having real conversations at the table, discovering the stories behind the food and wine, and feeling like part of a community. Palm Beach brings a natural sense of elegance and hospitality, and pairing that with world-class culinary talent creates a unique energy you can’t find anywhere else.”
Beyond indulgence, the festival gives back. A portion of proceeds benefits the Els for Autism Foundation, supporting individuals with autism and their families worldwide. The Beef N Bourbon Experience also contributes to the Robert Irvine Foundation, benefiting service members, veterans, and first responders.
The spirit of generosity extends to the culture among the chefs themselves. “Chefs and winemakers love coming here because they’re able to connect, collaborate, and truly enjoy the experience themselves,” Sabin adds. “That joy and authenticity carries over to our guests, and I think that’s why the festival continues to resonate year after year.”
Like any great festival, some of the most powerful memories are unscripted. Sabin recalls one particularly stormy evening when rain nearly washed out a signature outdoor event. Instead of canceling, chefs and staff banded together under tents to serve dinner shoulder-to-shoulder. “What could have been a disaster ended up becoming one of the most memorable, intimate evenings in festival history,” he says. “It reminded me that sometimes it’s the unexpected moments that capture the true spirit of the festival.”
For first-timers, Sabin recommends crafting a balanced itinerary. “Start with one of the intimate chef dinners — it’s the best way to really connect with the culinary talent,” he suggests. “Then make sure to attend one of the walk-around events like the Grand Tasting, where you can explore dozens of restaurants, wines, and spirits all in one place. And add at least one specialty experience, whether it’s a brunch, wine seminar, or one of the more playful events that showcase creativity and camaraderie. That balance gives a first-timer the full flavor of what makes this festival unique. And of course, I’d leave room for a little spontaneity, because often the best memories are the ones you don’t plan.”
At its core, the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival is about more than plates and pours. It’s about the joy of connection. “If there’s one message I’d want people to take away, it’s that the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival is about more than just incredible food and wine — it’s about connection,” Sabin says. “Every event is designed to bring people closer: to the chefs and winemakers, to the stories behind what’s on the plate, and to each other. That sense of connection and celebration is what we hope stays with every guest long after the last bite.”
With its stunning Palm Beach setting, intimate experiences, and world-class culinary talent, the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival is a must-attend celebration for anyone who loves great food, wine, and unforgettable moments at the table.
Tickets are available now at PBFoodWineFest.com.