Join us for an unforgettable weekend in one of America’s most enchanting towns! Once a year, St. Francisville transforms into a vibrant destination for the St. Francisville Food and Wine Festival, drawing thousands to its picturesque, oak-lined streets and welcoming community. This exciting weekend is packed with daily events and lively evening parties that showcase the heart of Louisiana culture and its renowned hospitality. In this all-inclusive guide, you'll discover everything you need to know to make the most of your festival experience and ensure you don’t miss a single moment of the culinary magic that awaits! Continue reading for the full weekend itinerary, the best places to stay during your visit, and everything you need to know about the main event: The Grand Tastings at The Myrtles.
Where is St. Francisville?
St. Francisville is conveniently located about 30 miles north of Baton Rouge and approximately 120 miles northwest of New Orleans, making it an accessible getaway for visitors to Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The drive from Baton Rouge takes around 40 minutes, while the trip from New Orleans typically takes about 2 hours on Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 61. This prime location allows visitors to easily enjoy the serene atmosphere of St. Francisville while still being within reach of the vibrant culture and attractions found in Louisiana's larger cities. The scenic journey, often featuring picturesque landscapes and lush greenery, sets the stage for the charming experience that awaits in this historic town.
What is the St. Francisville Food and Wine Festival?
"The annual St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival is a weekend-long celebration of the culinary culture of Louisiana and Mississippi. Featuring acclaimed chefs, creative wine pairings, cocktail and spirit tastings, craft beer, and live entertainment in one of Louisiana's most beautiful and historic small towns." St. Francisville Food & Wine Committee
The St. Francisville Food and Wine Festival is a delightful weekend-long celebration of culinary artistry and regional flavors, held in the charming town of St. Francisville, Louisiana every November. Set against picturesque landscapes and historic architecture, this annual event draws thousands of food lovers and wine enthusiasts from near and far. Attendees can indulge in a diverse array of local dishes crafted by talented chefs, paired with exquisite wines from renowned vineyards. With live music, cooking demonstrations, and vibrant local vendors, the festival offers a unique opportunity to savor the rich culinary heritage of the area while enjoying the warm hospitality that defines this inviting community. With a flagship event Sunday, and multiple other events throughout the weekend, there’s something for everyone. Read below to find the entire weekend itinerary with location, times, and descriptions of the St. Francisville Food and Wine Festival.
Friday
FridayJazz Brunch At The St. Francisville Inn
Pop the cork on the 2024 festival with this lyrical, luxurious lunchtime feast at the spectacular St. Francisville Inn. Featuring a three-course menu by Chef Jaime Hernandez, spirited cocktail pairings, and a rousing jazz performance by New Orleans's Tom Fischer Trio.
Location: The St. Francisville Inn
Time: 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Winemaker Dinner At The Magnolia Cafe
An exuberant, seated dinner with wine pairings, served under the stars at St. Francisville's iconic Magnolia Café. A five-course Gulf fresh seafood feast will be prepared by Kristian Wade, Executive Chef at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, MS, featuring coast-inspired courses from Coraline's, Beau Rivage's newest fine dining restaurant, with wine pairings by Eberle Winery of Paso Robles, California. Winemaker Chris Eberle will be in attendance to introduce the wines and vineyard. A "get-ready-to-fest" after-party with live music on the Magnolia Café stage will follow.
Location: The Magnolia Cafe
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Saturday
Bubbles & BBQ At The Mallory
A day-long champagne and barbecue bonanza at North Commerce in historic downtown St. Francisville. Featuring live fire cooking stations helmed by the Gulf South's most creative barbecue masters, a bottomless champagne bar, local and regional craft beers, live entertainment; and opportunities to sample natural wines, regional spirits, and specialty foods presented by regional purveyors.
Location: The Mallory
Time: 11:00-3:00
Mad Hatters Soirée at The Royal Inn
An exquisitely catered social dinner party at The Royal Inn. Features multiple grazing stations and passed hors d’oeuvres created by The St. Francisville Inn’s Chef Jaime Hernandez and Galen Iverstine of Iverstine Farms Butcher, paired with wines and cocktails curated by Guy Stout of Stout Wines, a family-owned Napa Valley producer of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, partnering with legendary Napa winemaker Tom Rinaldi. Guy is also a Certified Wine Educator (CWE) and one of just 280 Master Sommeliers in the entire world.
Location: The Royal Inn
Time: 6:00-9:00
Sunday
St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival Grand Tastings At The Myrtles
The Grand Tastings Event invites you to embark on a delightful culinary journey where celebrated chefs from Mississippi and Louisiana showcase their signature dishes at over 25 tasting stations scattered throughout the enchanting grounds of The Myrtles. As you meander through this historic property, you'll encounter a feast for the senses, discovering mouthwatering creations paired perfectly with more than 40 notable wines from exceptional vineyards. But that's not all—step into the lively beer garden, where craft brews from local Mississippi and Louisiana breweries await your exploration. And for those seeking something a little stronger, the "Spirits of The Myrtles" Courtyard features a tantalizing selection of craft spirits and cocktails from talented regional distillers. With every corner you turn, the magic of Louisiana's culinary landscape unfolds, making for a whimsical day of indulgence and discovery!
Location: The Myrtles
Time: 1:00-5:00
Where Should I Stay?
St. Francisville offers a variety of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. For a unique experience, consider booking a room at one of the charming bed and breakfasts, such as The Myrtles, which provides a rich history of St. Francisville and is set on beautifully manicured grounds. The Myrtles is the site of the Food and Wine Festival's Grand Tasting Event and books extremely fast for this weekend every year, if you wish to stay at The Myrtles you will need to act fast. For those looking to be in the heart of downtown St. Francisville, Hotel Toussaint is a fantastic choice, featuring French-inspired rooms and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the local culture. Another great option is the Saint Francisville Inn, a beautifully restored hotel that combines modern amenities with Southern charm.
The Josephine Suite at Hotel ToussaintIn Summary
The St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and cuisine. This perfect weekend itinerary ensures that you not only enjoy the festival’s offerings but also immerse yourself in the beauty and history of St. Francisville. From delectable dishes to fine wines and unforgettable experiences, this festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of Louisiana. So, mark your calendar, gather your friends, and get ready for a weekend filled with culinary delights and cherished memories.
