12 Food Events this Summer
Breadcrumb
Nashville likes to eat. And not just in restaurants. We like to celebrate food. Take a look at some of the events happening this summer all dealing with the art of food.
Music City Food and Wine Festival
Cinco de Mayo
May 5, 2026
Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican heritage. It commemorates the date of the Mexican army's victory over France at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Celebrate with tacos or a meal inspired by Latin American flavors. Nashville area restaurants serve authentic, flavorful meals that will have you singing for more. Nashville's Hispanic & Latin American culture is lively and growing. Discover something new by exploring the Hispanic and Latin American culture through businesses and events celebrating Cinco de Mayo.
Strawberry Fest
May 9, 2026
Celebrate the season at the Nashville Farmers’ Market with Strawberry Jubilee, a free, family-friendly event full of fresh flavors and local fun. Enjoy live music, cooking demos, food trucks, and sweet strawberry specials, plus activities for all ages, including pony rides, a petting zoo, and a princess meet-and-greet. With local vendors, handmade goods, and even a puppy adoption truck, it is the perfect way to kick off spring in Music City.
YUM!EAST
May 14, 2026
East Nashville's food scene truly shines during Yum!East is a vibrant festival that invites food lovers to explore the culinary delights this unique neighborhood has to offer. The event not only showcases the exceptional talent of local chefs and restaurants but also brings the community together through an online auction, offering exclusive and unforgettable experiences. It's a perfect opportunity for both locals and visitors to dive into the heart of East Nashville's rich food culture and celebrate the flavors that make this area so special.
Nashville Rosé Festival
May 16, 2026
The Nashville Rosé Festival showcases a wide selection of global rosé wines in support of the Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition. Held in East Park, the night will feature live music, pink attire, fabulous friends, and endless pours.
Tennessee Flavors
May 19, 2026
Tennessee Flavors is an annual tasting event that brings together Nashville’s top restaurants and food and beverage artisans for a delicious evening in support of the Nashville State Community College Foundation. The focus is on Tennessee-sourced products and the culinary talents and local flavors that help make our growing community so special. Bring your appetite!
Brew at the Zoo
June 12, 2026
Nashville’s wildest beer event is back at the Nashville Zoo. Enjoy unlimited samples from local breweries & adult beverage vendors, food trucks, live music, up-close animal encounters, and more!
Nashville Predators Craft Beer Festival
June 20, 2026
Get out of the summer heat for craft brews, food, games, and entertainment at the Nashville Predators Craft Beer Festival at Bridgestone Arena. This event is always guaranteed to be the "coolest" beer festival in town! Each Beer Fest ticket also includes a FREE hockey ticket to a select 2026-27 Nashville Predators home game! Proceeds benefit the Preds Foundation, which supports Middle Tennessee nonprofit groups and programs in the community.
Music City Hot Chicken Festival
July 4, 2026
Each year, hot chicken lovers gather on the traditional July 4 date to celebrate Nashville's unique dish. Nashville's best hot chicken creators offer all tastes of their fiery dishes. It's FREE and the perfect opportunity to try Nashville's staple food before watching the Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th celebration.
L’ETÉ DU VIN
July 30-August 1, 2026
The Nashville Wine Auction brings together wine enthusiasts and collectors each year to support cancer research and treatment initiatives. Participants are treated to a sophisticated experience featuring tastings of rare vintages and the opportunity to meet esteemed winemakers.
Tomato Art Fest
August 7-8, 2026
The Tomato Art Fest is a vibrant celebration that pays homage to tomatoes in late summer. Situated in the bustling Five Points area of East Nashville, this free festival delights attendees with its multiple stages featuring live music, creating a lively atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Watermelon Festival
August 15, 2026
Back by popular demand! Join Nashville Farmers' Market for a celebration of the Southern favorite that beats the heat! Featuring live music on two stages, 21+ watermelon drinks, a kids’ zone with hands-on science with Adventure Science Center, crafts and yard games, a puppy adoption truck with Nashville Humane Association, cooking demonstrations and free tastings with Nossi College of Art, vendor specials, food trucks, and more.