Introduction to the Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival

What started out as a small gathering of local food enthusiasts has grown into one of Dallas-Fort Worth’s biggest culinary events of the year. If sipping wine and sampling gourmet bites sounds like your vibe, then this is the festival for you.

The Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival, now in its 11th year, is slated for April. It’s set to feature top chefs and restaurants from across the region and will include attendee experiences such as Tacos and Tequila; the Main Event; Rise and Dine; Burgers, Brews and Blues; and the Ring of Fire: A Next-Level Cookout.

Russell Kirkpatrick, co-founder of the Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival, said it’s for anyone who likes to eat or drink. He added that it’s the perfect opportunity to find a new favorite restaurant or chef.

Background and Inspiration

The idea for the festival originated after a number of Fort Worth restaurants and chefs participated in the Buffalo Gap Wine & Food Summit. With such strong interest in these restaurants and chefs, it just made sense to create something of our own in Fort Worth. The organizers wanted to build a large-scale event that would showcase the area’s diverse culinary talents while also giving back to the community.

Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

Navigating the cancellations caused by COVID-19 was certainly a stressful and challenging time. However, the organizers adapted with a series of pop-up dinners called 40 at the Fork, which ultimately led to the creation of the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund to support food and beverage workers during that difficult period. Since then, this mission has evolved into financial support for the Southern Smoke Foundation, continuing the commitment to industry relief.

What to Expect

One thing people should know about the event is that it is nearly 100% volunteer-driven. The organizers have two amazing full-time employees, but the other 300+ people — from event volunteers to the foundation board of directors and committee members — are all incredible volunteers. It’s not just a great time; it’s a great cause!

The personal favorite part of the event for Russell Kirkpatrick is watching so many people enjoy themselves. Every once in a while, he gets to strike up a conversation with someone who doesn’t know his role, and they start telling him what an amazing time they’re having. A close second is watching someone discover a new favorite restaurant they never knew existed before attending the festival.

Planning and Preparation

The planning process for the event is truly a yearlong process. To be completely honest, plans for the next year typically start taking shape during the festival weekend as the organizers observe what’s working, what’s not, and what improvements they need to make for the following year.

Tips for Attending

The event will take place from April 3-6, 2025. Ticket prices vary by event, and details can be found on fwfwf.org. The events are for ages 21 and over.

Attendees should come hungry and plan ahead by reviewing the schedule and making a list of must-try experiences. Comfortable shoes are a good idea since you’ll be walking and tasting a lot. The Fort Worth Food & Wine Festival app is also a great resource for navigating the festival, where you can find menus, maps, and all the dishes offered at each event.

The event will be held at the Heart of the Ranch at Clearfork, 5000 Clearfork Main St., Fort Worth. Tickets range from $75 to $229 depending on the event.

Conclusion

The Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival is an event not to be missed. With its diverse culinary talents, volunteer-driven team, and commitment to giving back to the community, it’s an event that promises to be a great time for a great cause. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or just someone who loves to try new things, this festival has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival?

A: The Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival is a culinary event that features top chefs and restaurants from across the region, with various attendee experiences such as Tacos and Tequila, the Main Event, Rise and Dine, Burgers, Brews and Blues, and the Ring of Fire: A Next-Level Cookout.

Q: When and where is the event?

A: The event will take place from April 3-6, 2025, at the Heart of the Ranch at Clearfork, 5000 Clearfork Main St., Fort Worth.

Q: How much are tickets?

A: Ticket prices vary by event, and details can be found on fwfwf.org. Tickets range from $75 to $229 depending on the event.

Q: What is the age limit for the event?

A: The events are for ages 21 and over.