Savor the Season at the Sunriver Food & Wine Festival
The Sunriver Resort is kicking off its annual Food & Wine Festival this May, and it’s shaping up to be a month filled with exciting culinary experiences that spotlight the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest. This year, the festival introduces a flexible schedule of events, making it easy for both locals and visitors to join in the fun.
From gourmet dinners paired with wines to hands-on cooking classes, there’s something for everyone. Notably, there’s a new weekly farmers market starting May 21, showcasing local growers and producers. It’s a fantastic way to highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients and support the community. Some standout vendors include Rex Hill and Atoz Wines, Curmuffins, and Southpaw Sourdough.
Executive Chef Josh Hedrick, who has been with the festival since it began in 2023, emphasizes the event’s evolution. “Each year, we focus on making it more intentional and reflective of our local landscape,” he said.
The festival will offer a range of activities that cater to various tastes. For example, during the Sunriver Wine & Cuisine Stroll, attendees can sample exquisite wines from Oregon, Washington, and California alongside creative bites from the resort’s chefs.
Here are some cool highlights to look out for:
Sunriver Wine & Cuisine Stroll at Lodge Kitchen: Enjoy tastings and inventive dishes on May 2. Tickets start at $70.
Bites & Flights at Lake House: Choose between classic and chocolate pairings on May 9, priced between $26-$35.
Farmers Market at The Backyard: This market will feature farm-fresh products every Saturday starting May 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Blind Wine Tasting at Lake House: Test your palate on May 23 for $45.
Chef Hedrick’s vision is clear: “If we do it right, it should feel thoughtful and a bit unexpected.”
Locals have voiced their excitement about the event on social media, sharing their favorite dishes from previous festivals and anticipating this year’s offerings, showing just how important food and community spirit are in Central Oregon.
This year’s festival not only promises to be a celebration of food and wine but also a testament to the power of local agriculture and creativity. The theme of seasonality resonates throughout the event, making it more than just a gathering, but a real experience worth sharing.
For more information on the festival, please visit Sunriver Resort. Enjoy a month of discovery and deliciousness!
