In its second year, Feast Wilmington is set to captivate food enthusiasts with an expanded array of events and culinary experiences. Last year, the festival drew approximately 3,000 attendees, showcasing the vibrant local food scene. This year, from March 24 to 30, the festival will host six major events across various locations in Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, featuring over 70 restaurants and businesses. Signature events such as Craft + Cuisine, Pier Party, and Brunch Elevated will return alongside new offerings like Feast Experiences, which aim to explore diverse corners of the city.
A Gourmet Journey Across Wilmington
Feast Wilmington is back for its second edition, commencing on March 24 and lasting through March 30. The festival promises a delightful exploration of the area's culinary treasures, with more vendors participating and twice as many events compared to last year. Spanning five days, it will offer six distinct occasions for visitors to savor dishes from over 70 establishments. Key highlights include the three mainstay events—Craft + Cuisine, Pier Party, and Brunch Elevated—which will unfold at Live Oak Bank Pavilion on March 29 and 30.
This year introduces Feast Experiences, designed to immerse participants in unique gastronomic adventures within the city. One such experience, Pies & Pints, invites guests to Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria on Wednesday evening for a guided tour of pizza styles paired with craft beers. On Thursday, Hollywood East offers an elegant four-course meal accompanied by live jazz at G. Prime Steak and Cellar. Friday night brings the Tailgate Party at The Starling Bar, where southern barbecue delights are complemented by refreshing beverages.
Other notable changes reflect feedback from last year’s surveys, including collaborations with End of Days Distillery and Mister Bartender to introduce specialized cocktails for each event. Moreover, Brunch Elevated has been rescheduled to Sunday morning to align better with its relaxed ambiance. The festival wraps up with this event, offering a range of brunch delicacies alongside music performances.
From a journalist's perspective, Feast Wilmington exemplifies how community engagement can enhance cultural events. By incorporating attendee feedback and expanding program offerings, the festival not only celebrates local cuisine but also fosters connections between residents and visitors. It underscores the importance of adaptability and innovation in creating memorable experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. Through its commitment to supporting local charities, Feast also demonstrates the potential for events to drive positive social impact.