Updated for 2025
Celebrating its 26th anniversary, the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival returns to the island May 15-19, 2024. Hosted by the White Elephant, this prestigious event founded by Denis Toner brings together purveyors, retailers, and restaurateurs for four days of tastings, pairings, seminars, and more.
The festival signals the start of the season for many islanders. In preparation for the anticipated crowd of more than 3,000 participants, shop owners, chefs, galleries, and tour operators are ready to reawaken the Grey Lady, Nantucket’s nickname, from its winter hibernation. While widely revered, the festival remains a boutique event, with a series of intimate gatherings designed to showcase the island as a true culinary destination.
Check out a list of other spring festivals you won’t want to miss!
Let’s peek at some grand events planned for this legendary festival.
Wednesday, May 14
The event begins with a welcome reception on Wednesday, attracting the who’s who of celebrity chefs, vintners, and sommeliers. This limited-ticket event features only the best wines and culinary creations.
In the evening, enjoy gazing at the stars at the Loines Observatory while sipping on delicious cocktails. The evening is hosted by the Maria Mitchell Association.
Thursday, May 15
Thursday begins with a French Country Luncheon at Nantucket’s renowned Straight Wharf Restaurant. With a stellar list of vintners and a luncheon prepared by Chef Gabriel Frasca of Straight Wharf Restaurant, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
The day continues with wine tastings and seminars. In the evening, attend the decadent Island Gala featuring winemakers from around the world paired with renowned local and regional chefs. This is your opportunity to mix and mingle with wine luminaries while being served delicious culinary creations by the chefs themselves.
Friday, May 16
The day begins with several tastings featuring the wines of great vintners, plus luncheons, Champagne Clambake, seminars, SMOKED! Grill Around the World, and pairings. Pace yourselves for a full day of extraordinary wines, fantastic food, and inspirational discussions.
Saturday, May 17
Saturday dawns brightly with the Rosê Brunch and more great tastings and luncheons, but the crown jewel of the day quite clearly is La Fête. This unique wine dinner begins with champagne and caviar and ends with a four-course dinner accompanied by bottles shared by the guests from their own cellars.
Sunday, May 18
Sunday’s round-up continues with a cocktail jazz brunch, grand tastings, and more. The festival ends after four whirlwind days and nights of wining and dining. But the memories and moments shared with food and wine luminaries will linger long into the season and breed a thirst for a return visit next year.
We look forward to clinking glasses with you at this year’s Nantucket Wine & Food Festival. Book your favorite room at the Seven Sea Street Inn well before this extraordinary annual event. Some of the programs are already sold out, so be sure to check the schedule and get your tickets for the events that interest you most.
