Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival Announces 2026 Preview Week Lineup

The Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival has officially unveiled the highly anticipated lineup for its third annual Preview Week, returning July 20–25, 2026. Designed as an immersive lead-up to the fall festival, Preview Week offers guests an exclusive taste of the culinary talent, award-winning wines, local artisans, and unforgettable experiences that make Fredericksburg one of Texas’ premier food and wine destinations.

From elegant wine-paired dinners and women-led wine tastings to craft beer, live music, barbecue, and the beloved annual Quesoff, this six-day celebration showcases the best of the Texas Hill Country while supporting a meaningful cause. Proceeds from Preview Week benefit the Hill Country Hospitality Relief Fund, which supports hospitality professionals throughout the region.

A Week of Curated Experiences

Monday, July 20 – The White Party

Preview Week begins with its most exclusive event, The White Party, hosted at Calivence Wine Tasting Bar + Bistro. Guests will enjoy a garden reception featuring live music by Ismael Muniz, amuse-bouche, and a welcome cocktail before moving upstairs for an intimate four-course dinner paired with exceptional wines. White summer attire is required for this elegant evening, which is limited to just 28 guests.

Tuesday, July 21 – Women for WineSense

Hosted at Hoffman Haus, Women for WineSense celebrates female leadership in Texas wine. Guests will enjoy curated bites alongside guided tastings from five outstanding women-led wineries, including Eliza Christopher, Pedernales Cellars, Bending Branch, Adega Vinho, and Kalasi Cellars.

Wednesday, July 22 – Cultured

Taking place at The Yellow Door Studio, Cultured blends wine, art, music, and creativity into one unforgettable evening. Guests can sample wines from Formando Vineyards, Becker Vineyards, Ferris & Fletch, and Pebble Rock while enjoying chef-crafted bites from JeriLynne Clifford, live harp music, and a hands-on wine bottle painting experience to take home.

Thursday, July 23 – Bangers + Brews

Altstadt Brewery transforms into a one-night-only comedy club for Bangers + Brews. Guests will enjoy artisan sausages by Harvest House’s Kip Thompson, craft beer, a welcome pour, a pretzel necklace, and a take-home Altstadt stein before settling in for a stand-up comedy performance by Tyler Gallant.

Friday, July 24 – Wild & Rooted

Set among the vineyards at Signor Vineyards, Wild & Rooted brings together Chef Mike Robinson and Lance and Boo Eaker of Eaker Barbecue for a unique hunter-gatherer-inspired culinary experience. The evening features wild boar-focused dishes paired with Signor wines in a relaxed garden-party atmosphere.

Saturday, July 25 – Boozy Brunch

Guests can ease into the final day of Preview Week with Boozy Brunch at Casa Chloe. This laid-back gathering features an elevated Mexican brunch, one complimentary drink ticket, and DJ Cassandra providing the soundtrack for a vibrant morning on Casa Chloe’s outdoor patio.

Saturday, July 25 – The Quesoff

Preview Week concludes with the fan-favorite 3rd Annual Quesoff at Grand Central at Milam. Attendees will sample queso creations from some of Fredericksburg’s favorite restaurants and vote for their favorites while enjoying live Tejano music from Los Juanos and margaritas from Surtierra Tequila.

Participating restaurants include Hondo’s on Main, Casa Chloe, Hill Country Herb Garden, Belly Up Brew Pub, Junebug’s BBQ, Hill & Vine, Los Tios, Eaker Barbecue, and two-time defending champion Leroy’s Tex Mex BBQ. Winners will be crowned in both People’s Choice and the newly added Judge’s Choice categories.

The Quesoff is family-friendly, and children 12 and under receive free admission.

Looking Ahead to Festival Season

In addition to the week’s culinary experiences, Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival organizers will release badges for the October festival during Preview Week, marking the official start of festival season.

“We’re eager to give guests an early taste of the unforgettable experiences coming to this year’s Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival,” said Festival Producer Hayley Wakefield. “Each event is intentionally curated to be immersive, intimate, and truly memorable—and there’s something delicious in store for everyone.”

Tickets & Information

Tickets for all Preview Week events are on sale now. For tickets, event details, and updates on the 2026 Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival, visit fbgfoodandwine.com.

Guests can also stay informed by following the festival on social media and subscribing to the festival email list for announcements regarding the October festival schedule, talent lineup, and badge releases.

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