Sip, swirl, and savor at this lively Premium Craft Beverage Tasting Event, an interactive evening designed to showcase exciting wines, craft beers, and artisanal spirits you may not have encountered before. Set in the heart of Bestor Plaza, this social tasting experience invites guests to explore new flavors, discover emerging brands, and connect directly with the people behind the products.

Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy a curated selection of beverages alongside thoughtfully paired small bites, guided by knowledgeable producers and beverage experts who can speak to the craftsmanship, origin, and unique character of each offering. From innovative flavor profiles to time-honored techniques, the focus is on discovery, conversation, and appreciation.

Presented in partnership with regional producers and collaborators, the Premium Craft Beverage Tasting Event creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where curiosity is encouraged and favorites are found. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or simply eager to try something new, this event offers an engaging way to taste, learn, and celebrate the creativity shaping today’s beverage landscape.

Perfect as an evening gathering with friends—or a flavorful complement to other Food Festival programming—this tasting event highlights the joy of sharing great drinks, great food, and great company.

Those interested in this event may also enjoy the Masters Series Class: From Spirit to Shelf — Inside Mezcal & Whiskey Manufacturing in Mexico, presented by Laiki Spirits on Thursday, August 20. This in depth conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production, culture, and global journey of some of the spirits featured at the tastings—providing a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship behind what’s in your glass.

Vendors:

Provenance Vineyards
Weekday Water
Bag And String
Laiki Spirits
Charcuterie By Carrie
Johnson Estates
Millcreek Coffee
The Basket Company

A moving feast of regional flavor. Taste Caravan transforms Bestor Plaza into a rotating showcase of the area’s most exciting restaurants and food trucks, offering guests the opportunity to sample 15–20 different regional establishments each week through thoughtfully prepared small bites.

Food trucks will be available:

Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (Lunch)

Tuesday & Friday, 4:30–8:00 p.m. (Dinner)

Vendors rotate throughout the week, and all offer small bites so guests are encouraged to return often so they can explore the wide range of cuisines, cooking styles, flavors and culinary voices—all in one vibrant, walkable destination located just outside the Amphitheater in Bestor Plaza.

During each Taste Caravan lunch service, guests can enjoy a live culinary demonstration or discussion in the plaza, creating an immersive experience where learning, conversation, and flavor come together. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or lingering to sample multiple offerings, Taste Caravan invites you to taste broadly, learn deeply, and celebrate the diversity of our regional food community.

Food/Drink Tickets:

All food vendors only accept Food Festival tickets for payment. The Athenaeum Hotel Beverage Tent & Lounge will accept tickets, cash or card. Tickets can be purchased from one of the two information and ticket tents located within steps of the food vendors.

5 Pack of Tickets: $10

Food Vendor’s

Cheesy Chick
Arly and Izzys
Charcuterie By Carrie
On the Fly
Chachys lemonades
Merritt Estate Winery- Slush bus
Best of Buffalo by Byron
U Take the Cake