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Chefs, mixologists, and food and wine lovers alike are gearing up to be in Downtown Natchez as one of the most celebrated events of the year approaches. The Natchez Food & Wine Festival is just around the corner, taking place Friday and Saturday, July 26 and 27.

The annual celebration, set for the last weekend of July, promises an extraordinary fusion of culinary artistry and community spirit, welcoming locals of course, but also visitors from near and far.

The Natchez Food & Wine Festival made a triumphant return last year after a brief hiatus. The festival has enjoyed great success for several decades but was temporarily retired in 2018. Last year though, the festival was revived through the collective efforts of organizers such as Lyn Jenkins, president of the Natchez Chamber of Commerce. “Last year’s festival was incredibly successful, and we are thrilled to build on that momentum,” Lyn shared.

The festivities kick off on Friday evening, July 26, with the “Tastings Along the Mississippi River,” the festival’s marquee event. This year, the tasting will feature more than 30 chefs from Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee, alongside four large wine companies, and offerings from craft breweries, as well as numerous smaller vendors. Attendees will have the opportunity to savor a variety of dishes and beverages, all while enjoying the beautiful riverside setting. Notably, Molly Manning Robertson and Christian Velez, former contestants on the Food Network’s “Spring Baking Championship,” will be present.

Friday’s tastings are just the beginning. The festival continues on Saturday with a series of exciting events, including a luncheon on Franklin Street. The newly added progressive luncheon spans multiple locations including Natchez Olive Market, Nest, Fête, and Steampunk Coffee Roasters.

Mixology classes, which were a hit last year, are back, and now expanded to accommodate the growing interest. These classes will be held at Smoot’s Grocery and feature renowned cocktail consultants like Mark Brockway of Hallelujah Wine & Spirits, who will offer attendees instructions on crafting Mississippi-made cocktails, representatives from Blue Chair Bay Rum will also be present. Natchez Brewing Company will join in on the occasion with bocce, beer, and brats.

Church Hill Variety will be hosting a “Summer Camp Dinner” Saturday at 6 p.m. Also Saturday is the “Food is Art” dinner at Conde Contempoary, and a “Coquerel Winemakers Dinner” at the newly renovated “The Briars” at 7 p.m. These dinners are designed to offer thematic dining experiences in some of Natchez’s most charming and culturally rich locations. You can find more information about the specific details of locations and times at natchezfoodandwine.com

The economic impact of the Natchez Food & Wine Festival is significant. Lyn estimates that the festival brings more than 1,000 visitors to Natchez, generating approximately $150,000 in revenue for the local economy. This influx of visitors not only fills hotels and restaurants but also supports local businesses and enhances the city’s profile as a destination for culinary enthusiasts.

Beyond the economic benefits, the festival fosters a sense of community and showcases the collaborative spirit of Natchez. Lyn added that the Natchez Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with the Natchez Food & Wine Festival. The event serves as a major fundraiser for the chamber, and a portion of the proceeds from the Friday night event goes to support the Natchez Stewpot.

So whether you are a local resident or a visitor from afar, mark your calendars for July 26 and 27 – purchase your tickets now at natchezfoodandwine.com.

Michael Wilson is the Community Engagement Coordinator for the Downtown Natchez Alliance (DNA). He can be reached at Downtown@NatchezDNA.org.