I found out about this event the year prior and added it to my MUST DO list since its close to my home, Tampa, Florida. Here are my favorite tips for if you want to go too!
There are many styles of food festivals, but this one is where you pay a flat rate and then taste, eat and drink as much as you want! Where else could you try all of these amazing products and local restaurants for a great price! The event was held on Saturday and Sunday in November, from 12 noon to 5pm.
- Was to stay in the loop AND even get pre-ale ticket discounts! then make sure you Sign Up for their email newsletter! You can visit their webpage here to sign up and make you get all the information you need to have a great time.
- To VIP or Not? I was able to buy a pre-sale General ticket for $95 instead of the regular rate of $120 but then we were able to apply for VIP Passes via their media program last minute! VIP tickets were about $150
- VIP Perks - entry and hour early and access to a VIP area with improved bathrooms, better seating and additional vendors and souvenirs!
- My favorite part of the VIP experience was the updated bars like for Brugal Rum and Hendricks Gin, they were decorated wonderfully AND had great cocktails! Checkout my drinks video below to see them!
- This festival was held at Vinoy Park in downtown St Pete, right on the water overlooking the St Pete Pier! There was limited street parking, otherwise you could park in one of the parking decks downtown and then walk down to the park. I got there about 1 hour before opening so we were able to get close street parking.
Overall, This event was set up and planned very well! There was a large and diverse selection of vendors from restaurants and alcohol to snacks, packaged goods, desserts and even candy!
All of the booths were shaded, well-spaced out and there was plenty of water to keep you hydrated. It wasn't too hot being in November, but it was nice to not be sitting in the sun all day. The only thing missing I think was more seating options. There was really only seating in the VIP and demonstration areas so bring your comfortable shoes!
