The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (aka NOWFE) is a premier annual festival celebrating the city's rich culinary and cultural heritage. Scheduled for its 33rd year, the 2025 event will take place from June 11 to June 15, offering a diverse array of experiences for food and wine enthusiasts.
About NOWFE
NOWFE is renowned for its extensive lineup of events, including wine tastings, gourmet dinners, and interactive culinary experiences. The festival features participation from hundreds of wineries and restaurants, showcasing both local flavors and international cuisines. Over its three-decade history, NOWFE has raised more than $1.5 million for local non-profit organizations, with the 2025 beneficiaries being the Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation, Delgado Community College Culinary Arts Program, and FirstLine Schools' Edible Schoolyard Program.
2025 Event Highlights
- Vinola: An exclusive wine-tasting event featuring rare and fine wines, held at the Orpheum Theater on June 12.
- Tournament of Rosés: A celebration of rosé wines accompanied by live music, taking place at Generations Hall on June 13.
- The Grand Tasting: The festival's flagship event on June 14 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, offering a vast selection of wines paired with dishes from top New Orleans chefs.
- Burlesque, Bubbly & Brunch: A lively brunch event with burlesque performances and sparkling wines, scheduled for June 15 at the Omni Royal Orleans.
- Wine Dinners: Intimate dinners hosted at various local restaurants on June 11, each paired with selections from featured wineries.
- Labs & Experiences: Interactive sessions such as masterclasses, food and wine pairings, and culinary demonstrations occurring throughout the festival.
Tickets & Packages
Tickets for individual events and packages are available for purchase. For example, the "Tasting Package" includes access to both the Tournament of Rosés and The Grand Tasting for $258. Prices for other events vary, and it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance due to high demand.
Venues
Events are hosted at various iconic locations throughout New Orleans, including:
- Orpheum Theater
- Generations Hall
- Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
- Omni Royal Orleans
- Various local restaurants and venues across the city
For more information, event schedules, and ticket purchases, visit the official NOWFE website: New Orleans Wine & Food Experience.