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Charleston Food + Wine: Kicking off Spring in Style

Steeped in a storied history, Charleston, South Carolina, is a unique and beautiful location for your next vacation. Founded by English settlers back in 1670, the city quickly established itself as a leading seaport and center for agriculture in the region. The Civil War began here with the first shots ringing out at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. Post-Civil War, the city quickly rebuilt and improved, with an economy based on manufacturing and trade. Now Charleston is one of the top tourist destinations in the southern United States, and brings in over 4.5 million visitors each year.

 

During the late winter and early spring, Charleston is a buzz with fun activities and unique locations to visit. The temperatures during late winter here are moderate and perfect for getting rid of the winter blues. The rich history of the city is on display at various historic locations and museums. You’ll find a wide assortment of tours that give you an in depth perspective of this one-of-a-kind area. Outdoor lovers will fall in love with the lush surroundings, beautiful parks and abundant outdoor activities like: hiking, biking, fishing, golfing and so much more. The culture here is deep as the history. You’ll find many galleries, shows and exhibits that give you a taste of this historic city. To get the full Charleston experience, you need to participate in one of the great local events like Charleston Food + Wine.  

 

During its eleven years of existence, Charleston Food + Wine has developed a large following. In 2015, the festival welcomed more than 23,000 people into Charleston. Attendees get to experience unique culinary creations by top chefs from all over the globe. The event is held at different restaurant locations all over the city, giving each participant a tour of the city while they enjoy some of the best food on the planet. Over 165 different beverage vendors will also be on hand this year showcasing their latest libations. No matter if you're looking for a romantic couple's retreat or a fun group experience, Charleston Food + Wine is the ideal event for you. ResortsandLdoges.com got the opprotunity to interview Laura Kate Whitney, Marketing and Communications Director for Charleston Food + Wine, to talk about the event.

 

RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.

LKW: Charleston Food + Wine was founded in 2006 and we are proudly celebrating our 11th year. Our event is quite popular and always growing. In fact, we welcomed approximately 23,500 guests last year. We welcomed 60% local and 40% out-of-town guests to our 2015, and we anticipate a similar showing for 2016 as far as demographics are concerned.

 

RAL: What makes the event unique?

LKW: We offer a remarkable menu of unique experiences that showcases the distinct flavors and culinary excellence of the Lowcountry. With everything from grand parties to unforgettable excursions, interactive cooking classes to beverage workshops, rare tastings to intimate dinners, Charleston Wine + Food truly offers something for every palate!

 

RAL: Take me through what attendees will find at the event.

LKW: When it come to activities, there is something here for everyone. During the five days of the event we will have 114 different events for people to enjoy. We have 275 chefs (local and out-of-town guests) participating in the 2016 festival. We also have more than 165 beverage professionals joining us in 2016, with a few coming to us from as far away as New Zealand and France. In addition, we have more than 25 signature dinners to choose from that offer rare chef and winemaker collaborations. The overall environment of the event is fun and unique, with events taking place at different restaurants all over Charleston.

 

RAL: What can attendees expect to find for local lodging?

LKW: We have a wonderful group of hotel partners that we work with each year to create carefully curated packages that include festival tickets and hotel accommodations. No matter your budget or the size of your group, you’ll find the ideal lodging for you right in Charleston. Here are a few great lodging options, that are also partners of the event: The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel, Charming InnsThe Francis Marion Hotel and Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. Make sure to plan ahead because many of the lodging partners for the event are fully booked by event time.  

 

RAL: What does the event mean to the community?

LKW: Our event attracts over 23,000 people to Charleston annually. The extra foot traffic visiting the community is a welcomed boon to many of the local businesses. From gas stations to boutique shops, they all see a jump during the event.

 

In addition to boosting traffic to local businesses, we support the next generation of culinary and hospitality talent through local scholarship programs. In fact, eighty-eight cents of every dollar we spend producing Charleston Wine + Food goes back to that mission.

 

RAL: Why should people come to your event?

LKW: Year after year, Charleston receives recognition as a favorite foodie and travel destination. It's our pleasure to provide a world-class culinary experience in the country's loveliest, most charming city.


For more information about Charleston Food + Wine, please visit their website.