Hundreds of people gathered inside the Natchez Convention Center Friday for the annual “Tastings Along the Mississippi River” that kicked off this year’s Natchez Food and Wine Festival. Food vendors from across the region shared their delectable cuisine. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Lisa Miller of Natchez Brewing and Company takes a break to enjoy a sip of beer during the Natchez Food and Wine Festival Friday at the Natchez Convention Center. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Hunter Rogillio pours a glass of wine for Deanna Dufour during event Friday at the Natchez Convention Center. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

From left Abby Hobdy, Callie Godfrey and Kolby Godfrey enjoy a plate of food from The Carriage House during the Natchez Food and Wine Festival Friday at the Natchez Convention Center. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)