5 Must-Visit Food Events in Virginia This March

Last Updated on February 27, 2026 by Liz Thomson

If you’re looking for a reason to get out and explore Virginia, the spring food event lineup has a lot going on. From fresh maple syrup to historically themed cocktails, there’s something happening in every corner of the state. Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or just looking for an excuse to eat something amazing, these are some of the biggest and most delicious events happening across Virginia.

Highland County Maple Festival

If you love cozy mountain vibes and anything maple, the Highland County Maple Festival is worth the drive.

Happening March 14th & 15th and March 21st and 22nd, Highland County celebrates the maple sugaring season each year with a festival that celebrates all things Local. Sugar camps open their doors so you can see how sap is collected and boiled into pure Virginia maple syrup.

What to expect:

• Pancake and buckwheat cake breakfasts topped with local syrup
• Tours of working sugarhouses
• Maple donuts, candies, and baked goods
• Arts, crafts, and local vendors

Why it’s special: This isn’t a big commercial festival. It’s a community-run event and one of the most unique food traditions in the state.

Governor’s Cup Gala

Even though tickets are sold out, you can try your luck on the waitlist! We have to mention it because the Governor’s Cup Gala is one of the most incredible wine events in Virginia, and it’s worth keeping on your radar for next year.

This annual celebration showcases the best wines in Virginia, featuring gold medal winners from the prestigious Governor’s Cup competition. Attendees get to taste the state’s top bottles all in one place while meeting winemakers and industry leaders.

Why it matters for wine lovers:

• It highlights the growing national reputation of Virginia wine
• The event sets trends for what you’ll see in tasting rooms throughout the year
• Many of the award-winning wines sell out quickly after the gala

Insider tip: Watch for the Governor’s Case announcement (the top 12 wines). It’s a great cheat sheet for planning your next winery trip.

Culpeper Restaurant Week

If you’re looking for a small-town food scene that punches above its weight, Culpeper Restaurant Week is the perfect excuse for a day trip.

From March 9th- March15th, local restaurants throughout Culpeper’s historic downtown offer special prix fixe menus and limited-time dishes, making it easy to explore new spots or revisit local favorites at a great value.

What to expect:

• Multi-course prix fixe menus at participating restaurants
• Specials that highlight seasonal and locally sourced ingredients
• A walkable downtown filled with independent eateries
• A relaxed, small-town atmosphere that’s perfect for a weekend outing

Why it’s special: Culpeper has become a destination for farm-to-table dining and chef-driven restaurants. Restaurant Week gives you a curated taste of the town’s best without the guesswork.

Plan ahead: Check the list of participating restaurants and their menus in advance—popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Lafayette Day Cocktail Party

Ok we had to mention this one because it has to be one of the most creative food events happening in Virginia. The Lafayette Day Cocktail Party is happening at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture and it’s a great excuse to enjoy a cocktail while learning a little something.

Here’s what to expect:

• Historically inspired heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks, including tastings from the Lafayette Bicentennial Wine Series with Williamsburg Winery winemakers sharing insights.
• Period music from the 18th and 19th centuries, traditional fife and drum, and a special theatrical portrayal of the Marquis de Lafayette.
• After-hours access to museum exhibits, including Revolutionary Allies, plus special displays of original manuscripts and a traveling Lafayette exhibit.

Hampton Restaurant Week

Restaurant Week is always a great excuse to try somewhere new, and Hampton Restaurant Week is one of the best ways to explore the city’s growing food scene.

Participating restaurants offer special prix fixe menus March 1st- March 15th making it easy to:

• Try higher-end spots at a lower price
• Explore local favorites you haven’t visited yet
• Sample multi-course meals without the usual splurge

Expect everything from waterfront seafood and Southern comfort food to international cuisine.

Strategy tip: Browse menus ahead of time and make reservations early because popular spots fill up quickly.

What are you looking forward to in March? Share your event recommendations in the comments!