News Summary
The San Diego Food + Wine Festival wraps up with the Grand Fiesta, showcasing the culinary traditions of Latin America and Southern California. Set for November 9, the event features renowned chefs, wine tastings, and cultural experiences, making it a must-attend for food lovers. This year’s festival emphasizes community engagement, supporting hunger relief initiatives, and partnering with the James Beard Foundation to celebrate exceptional culinary talent. Guests can enjoy an array of demonstrations, live music, and the Grand Tasting event, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
San Diego will conclude its annual Food + Wine Festival with the highly anticipated Grand Fiesta, set to take place on November 9, 2025. This event highlights the rich culinary and cultural connections between Latin America and Southern California, offering an immersive experience for food enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.
The Grand Fiesta serves as the unforgettable finale of the week-long San Diego Food + Wine Festival, which runs from November 2 to November 9, 2025. Hosted at Ingram Plaza in Liberty Station, the event promises an enriching environment featuring award-winning chefs, exquisite wines, craft beers, and traditional spirits of Mexico.
Event Highlights
Attendees can expect a wide array of engaging experiences, including live music performances and cultural conversations. The festival will also showcase larger-than-life art installations and offer demonstrations focused on Mexican spirits and traditional culinary dishes, celebrating the gastronomy of the region.
Notable figures in the culinary world, including chefs Elijah Arizmendi, Roberto Alcocer, and Tara Monsod, will prepare world-class dishes as part of the celebration. More than 80 chefs and restaurants from the West Coast and Baja will participate in this culinary extravaganza.
Grand Tasting and Competitions
A key feature of the festival is the Grand Tasting, which occurs at the Port of San Diego. This event will highlight over 200 wineries, breweries, and spirit purveyors, making it a true gastronomic playground for attendees.
The festival will also host the Chef of the Fest Competition, where chefs will compete for the title of “2025 People’s Choice – Chef of the Fest“. The winning chef will earn bragging rights, a plaque, and a prize package worth up to $5,000.
Tickets and Attendance Details
Tickets for the Grand Fiesta are available for purchase through the San Diego Food + Wine Festival website. Attendees must be at least 21 years old, as the festival enforces a strict policy against entry for children and non-service animals. Guests are encouraged to dress in semi-casual attire, making for a relaxed yet festive atmosphere.
Parking will be available at the venue for $20 per day; however, rideshare and public transportation are recommended for those planning to consume alcohol during the festivities.
Partnerships and Contributions
This year, the festival emphasizes its partnership with the James Beard Foundation, highlighting many participating chefs who have received accolades from both the foundation and the Michelin Guide. The event also integrates efforts to support hunger relief through partnerships with organizations like Feeding San Diego, ensuring that the festival gives back to the community.
Location and Accommodations
For those coming from out of town or looking for a comfortable stay, partner hotels include the Hilton San Diego/Del Mar and the San Diego Marriott Del Mar, providing convenient accommodations for festival guests.
The Grand Fiesta promises to be a remarkable closing event for the San Diego Food + Wine Festival, celebrating the deep connections between culture and cuisine. With its diverse offerings and exciting atmosphere, it is sure to create lasting memories for all participants.
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Additional Resources
- San Diego Reader: San Diego Food + Wine Festival 2025
- San Diego Reader: San Diego Food + Wine Festival Day 2
- iHeart Radio: San Diego Food + Wine Festival’s Grand Fiesta
- San Diego Union Tribune: San Diego Food + Wine Festival Returns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Festival

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