7 Georgia Festivals That Are Made for Foodies
What’s not to love about Georgia? Peanuts, peaches and pecans are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to foods this great state has to offer. Whether you are a true Southerner with deep roots in the Peach State or dreaming of living among the towering pines and mossy oaks of this beautiful region, you can still enjoy each and every one of these mouthwatering Georgia food festivals.
Oktoberfest
Helen
The little Bavarian-inspired town of Helen, Georgia, is home to the longest-running Oktoberfest in the United States. Complete with beer and brats and more Lederhosen that you might ever see in your life, this is a celebration to top all celebrations. And if the authentic German music and food aren’t enough to satisfy you, take heart knowing this festival provides a wide variety of satisfying beers to quench your thirst.
Shrimp & Grits Festival
Jekyll Island
Welcome to the South, where it’s only right to have a festival dedicated to shrimp and grits on the calendar. These two dishes are Southern staples, and how could you not enjoy savoring this delicious dish when the breathtaking scenery of Jekyll Island is your backdrop? This is a full weekend event, so bring your appetite and an overnight bag because there are more than enough activities, foods and beautiful landscapes to satisfy even the pickiest palate.
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Atlanta Food & Wine Festival
Atlanta
One of the goals of the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is to preserve the traditions of Southern food and drink. And while everyone is entitled to their own opinion, we think they’re doing a pretty good job. This premier Georgia festival gives you a chance to learn about the latest culinary trends, enjoy a variety of uniquely Southern food and drink products, and savor samples of everything from appetizers to desserts.
See more: Georgia Agritourism is More Than Apples
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Georgia Apple Festival
Ellijay
October is the season for pumpkin picking, sweater wearing and candle burning. But we can’t forget the time-honored tradition of apple picking, harvesting and cooking. That’s one of the many reasons you should add the Georgia Apple Festival to your bucket list. With cooking demonstrations, food vendors and a celebratory parade, this is a family-friendly event that will leave you feeling full of autumn nostalgia. Plus, you have the opportunity to purchase delectable goodies like apple bread, donuts and dumplings to enjoy at home.
See more: 6 Apple Orchards to Visit This Fall
Savannah Food & Wine Festival
Savannah
The week-long Savannah Food & Wine Festival is an annual event full of delicious food and Southern hospitality. Savannah provides a gorgeous and historic background for enjoying literally hundreds of different food and drink samples, attend wine and cocktail tastings and watch more culinary events than you can count. Whether you want to see the largest low country boil, meet your friends for the Bubbles and Brunch event, or sign up for a master cooking class, this is the place for you.
See more: Vintage Georgia Wine
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Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival
Kennesaw
What’s not to love about a festival dedicated to all things pork and peaches? This two-day festival is the place to be if you’re in the market for barbecued meat, mouthwatering desserts and lively music. There’s also a substantial children’s area where kids can make the most of the celebratory weekend. Make sure you stick around to see who wins the Georgia State Championship Barbecue Cookoff, which doles out more than $10,000 in cash and prizes.
Georgia Peach Festival
Fort Valley
Georgia is known around the country as the Peach State – and for good reason. These juicy fruits have a long and storied history in Georgia, where they were introduced on the state’s coast in 1571 by Franciscan monks. But today, the Georgia Peach Festival is simply the place to be if you want to savor some of the finest peaches in the country. From parades and pageants to pie contests and more, this is a must-see celebration for the whole family.
See more: How Peaches Are Harvested and Other Peach Fun Facts