Culinary Festivals and Events

The Taste began more than 35 years ago. It's a spring event attracting an average of 6,000 guests annually. This event is a benefit for the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Phoenix. Scottsdale. Usually takes place: April.

About 50 barbecue teams will compete, and you get to taste them all. Scottsdale. Usually takes place: Spring.

Several major cities around the country set a side a week where local restaurants can showcase their menus by offering a special meal at a special price. It's a great way to get to know some of the local dining options around town, some of which might have prices that are a bit our of reach when they aren't running a special promotion like this. Usually takes place: September.

Attend Phoenix Cooks! classes, culinary demonstrations, sample Chef creations and spirits, marketplace. The ultimate foodie event is the Phoenix Cooks! Dine-Around. Usually takes place: September.

Guests have the opportunity to mingle with the chefs and to taste their amazing creations, from delicious soups, salads and appetizers to some of their signature dishes and most decadent desserts. Proceeds benefit the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Usually takes place: Fall.

National Bank of Arizona hosts the annual Taste of the Biltmore, a block party featuring local restaurants and eateries with musical entertainment. This event is a benefit for a local nonprofit. It takes place at the bank headquarters in Central Phoenix. Fall.

Sample tacos and side dishes, listen to music and enjoy cool beverages while various competitors vie for cash prizes and top honors for the best tacos in the land. A family-friendly event in Scottsdale. Usually takes place: Fall.

Set in Historic Downtown Chandler, this event showcases food and drink from over 30 local restaurants and beverage purveyors. 21+ only. Usually takes place: Fall.

An evening, outdoor event benefiting City of Hope, a research and treatment center for cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Epicurean creations from some of the Valley of the Sun’s finest restaurants along with a selection of wines. Usually takes place in the spring.