The Top 5 Food Events in Virginia This April
Last Updated on March 26, 2026 by Liz Thomson
Spring is one of the best times to explore Virginia’s food scene. As the weather warms up, wineries reopen their patios, food trucks return to festivals, and towns across the state host outdoor events celebrating local food and drink.
If you’re looking for a fun weekend outing or planning a foodie road trip, April is packed with festivals featuring everything from craft beer and Virginia wine to street food and international cuisine. Here are five Virginia food events worth adding to your calendar this month.
Spring Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival
Lynchburg – April 4, 2026
Held at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest in Lynchburg, the Spring Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival is a beautiful way to welcome Virginia’s spring wine season. The event features wineries from across the region, along with local food vendors and live music.
Guests can stroll the historic grounds while sampling wines and enjoying small bites from local vendors. The relaxed outdoor setting makes it a great event for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors looking for a scenic afternoon outing.
Shipwreck Festival
Hampton– April 4, 2026
The Shipwreck Festival in Hampton combines live music, craft beverages, and a lineup of local food trucks for a lively waterfront event. Visitors can enjoy performances from regional bands while sampling everything from casual street food to sweet treats.
This festival has a laid-back atmosphere and is a great way to explore the local food truck scene while enjoying views of the Hampton waterfront.
Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest
Smithfield – April 11, 2026
The Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest brings together Virginia wineries, craft breweries, and food vendors for a full day of tastings at Windsor Castle Park.
Attendees can sample wine and beer from dozens of vendors while enjoying live music and local food. The park’s scenic waterfront setting adds to the charm, making it an easy choice for a spring day trip.
Bubbles & Blooms
Richmond– April 8, 2026
Held at historic Agecroft Hall & Gardens, Bubbles & Blooms is a spring evening event that combines food, drinks, and live music with one of Richmond’s most beautiful garden settings. Guests can stroll through the gardens overlooking the James River while enjoying seasonal blooms and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.
Agecroft Hall itself is a historic Tudor-style manor that was originally built in England and reconstructed in Richmond in the 1920s, making it a uniquely scenic place to celebrate the arrival of spring. This is one of our favorite spots to visit in the spring!
Bloomin’ Wine Fest
Winchester– April 24-25, 2026
Part of the larger Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, the Bloomin’ Wine Fest highlights wineries from across Virginia. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, live music, and local food vendors while celebrating one of the region’s most popular spring festivals.
It’s a great opportunity to sample wines from multiple vineyards while enjoying the festive atmosphere of Winchester during Apple Blossom season.
Planning Your Virginia Food Adventures
April marks the start of festival season across Virginia, and many events sell out quickly. If you’re planning to attend, it’s a good idea to purchase tickets early and consider turning your visit into a weekend getaway.
Looking for more places to eat and drink across the state? Check out our guides to the best restaurants in Virginia!
