Summer food festivals are the perfect reason to get outside, enjoy warm weather and explore both new culinary creations and beloved regional specialties. From the cutting-edge plates at the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival to the hands-on, artisanal offerings at the Vermont Cheesemakers Festival, these events serve up memorable flavors you won’t want to miss.
If you’re familiar with Chicago, you already know the city’s signature summer celebration: Taste of Chicago. Running July 6–10 in scenic Grant Park, the festival draws locals and visitors to sample food trucks, pop-up restaurants and festival favorites, all while enjoying live music and a festive atmosphere.
Taking place Aug. 25–28, the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival showcases the best of the L.A. culinary scene. Expect to encounter well-known chefs, emerging culinary talent and the latest trends in food and drink. This event is a must for food lovers hoping to taste innovative dishes and premium beverages.
For cheese enthusiasts, the Vermont Cheesemakers Festival is a one-day highlight on July 17. Cheesemakers and artisans from across the region gather to share samples and knowledge. Beyond an impressive selection of cheeses, attendees can find wine, chocolate, coffee and informative workshops that deepen appreciation for handcrafted dairy.
The Yarmouth Clam Festival, now in its 51st year and scheduled for July 15–17, offers a family-friendly mix of parade, fireworks and live music alongside classic coastal fare. The free event celebrates local flavors and traditions — and if you’re feeling competitive, the clam-shucking contest tests speed and skill. The current standard is an impressive 25 clams per minute.
For an authentic lobster roll experience, head to Maine for the Maine Lobster Festival, Aug. 3–7. The popular event is supported by more than 1,100 volunteers, with proceeds benefiting nearby communities. Festival mascots like Rocky the Lobster help create a lively, welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
The Gilroy Garlic Festival in Gilroy, Calif., runs July 29–31 and is famous for its bold garlic-forward dishes. Pyro chefs thrill crowds with high-heat grilling demonstrations, flipping skillets amid dramatic flames. Adventurous eaters can sample unusual specialties such as garlic ice cream alongside more traditional savory offerings.
Stay near the scenic cherry orchards for the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, Mich., beginning July 2 and running through July 9. The event is steeped in Americana — from crowning the Cherry Queen to enjoying slice-after-slice of fresh cherry pie — and captures the nostalgic charm of small-town summer festivities.