Did you know that the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix is the most exciting food festival in Southwest Florida? Not only can you experience an elevated afternoon of grand tasting, the event is absolutely worth the price of admission! I can’t believe that GA tickets start at only $65. The Wine & Food Experience is a great bang for your buck when it comes to foodie festivals in Naples. The event showcases the region’s flavors in a culinary adventure that promises an unforgettable experience.
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Nestled in the beautiful outdoor setting of Paradise Coast Sports Complex, the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix is the epitome of the best local food and wine festival in Naples, FL. Offering a single admission price and a plethora of local delights for food enthusiasts, this gathering of culinary leaders and local chefs is a haven for those seeking the ultimate food experience on the Paradise Coast.
What to Expect at the Naples, FL USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix
- Get a Tasting Cup and Endless Food and Drinks: General admission tickets include a tasting cup and endless food and beverage samples beginning at 1:00 p.m. at all events.
- Delight in Local Flavors: The USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix 2023 at Paradise Coast Sports Complex is a showcase of some of the best restaurants in Naples, FL. Attendees can taste foods that represent the essence of the local culinary scene, curated by top chefs and sous chefs.
- VIP Indulgence: Elevate your experience with VIP admission tickets for $100, granting access to a VIP lounge and exclusive tasting events at noon instead of one. VIP admission tickets to the event include a tasting cup, access to the VIP Lounge and endless food and beverage samples (while supplies last) beginning at 12 noon at all events.
- Live Demonstrations and Food Events: Immerse yourself in the culinary arts through live demonstrations and cooking events. From cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs to wine pairing sessions guided by a master sommelier, the event offers a first real chef experience.
- Endless Culinary Delights: With a tasting cup in hand, guests can indulge in endless food, experiencing options from various local chefs and culinary leaders.
- Wine Tasting Extravaganza: Discover the art of wine tasting at the wine bar, featuring a diverse range of wines. The event ensures that wine enthusiasts have the opportunity to savor premier wine selections.
- A Celebration of Craftsmanship: Explore the world of craft beers and beverage samples, curated to delight the taste buds of food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
What is the Difference Between VIP and GA? Is the VIP Ticket to the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience Worth the Money?
First off, both ticket prices are great deals! When it comes to the price of food these days, you can’t beat a food and wine festival in Naples that starts at only $65 a person. The VIP tickets are $100 and in my opinion are also a great deal. Here are the differences between VIP and GA.
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VIP Tickets: Elevate Your Experience- $100
- Exclusive VIP Lounge Access:
- VIP ticket holders gain entry to an exclusive VIP lounge, providing a luxurious and comfortable space to relax and enjoy the event.
- Early Entry:
- VIP guests can enter the event before the general public, allowing them to explore and savor the offerings without the crowd.
- Premium Tastings:
- VIP ticket holders have access to premium tastings, which may include top-shelf wines, craft beers, and other exclusive beverages.
- Meet Culinary Experts:
- VIP guests get the chance to meet and interact with renowned chefs, culinary leaders, and beverage experts, gaining valuable insights and personal experiences.
- Enhanced Food and Wine Pairings:
- The VIP experience often includes special food and wine pairing sessions guided by experts, creating a unique and educational culinary adventure.
- Complimentary Souvenirs:
- VIP attendees may receive complimentary souvenirs or gifts as a part of their premium experience.
- Private Restrooms:
- VIP guests can enjoy the convenience of private restroom facilities, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable visit.
General Admission (GA) Tickets: A Taste of the Festival- $65
- Access to the Main Event:
- GA ticket holders have access to the main event, including tastings from various restaurants, wineries, and vendors.
- Live Demonstrations:
- GA attendees can watch live cooking demonstrations, providing them with insights into the culinary world.
- Wine Tasting:
- GA tickets typically include access to wine tasting areas, allowing attendees to sample a wide range of wines.
- Food Sampling:
- General Admission provides opportunities to sample foods from local restaurants and vendors, offering a diverse culinary experience.
- Entertainment and Atmosphere:
- GA guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the event, including live entertainment, music, and the vibrant energy of fellow food enthusiasts.
- Availability of Food and Beverages:
- While GA tickets provide access to a wide array of food and beverages, some premium tastings and experiences may not be included.

Photo provide by USA TODAY Wine & Food. Text Overlay by Hannah Rinaldi
Can you Buy Tickets to the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix on the Day of the Event?
Yes! I love that ticket sales are still going on the day of the event.
Although, be warned, VIP tickets are limited and can sell out!
You also need to know that ticket prices increase by $15. This brings the GA ticket price to $80 and the VIP price to $115.
Save money and buy in advance! Ready to buy your tickets to the USA TODAY Wine &Food Experience presented by Publix? Buy tickets now and save 30% with promo code: EATDRINKSAVE
What Local Restaurants will be at the Naples USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix?
There are 17 local food businesses and 15 beverages. From the beverage providers, a few of them are local to Florida, including Gather Beverage and Keel & Curley Winery.
You’ll find “The Tastes” from the following local businesses:
- Two Guys Catering (VIP Only)
- The Hangout by Two Guys (VIP Only)
- Chloe’s Cookies
- Hyde n Chic Restaurant
- The Gasparilla Inn & Club
- Roy’s
- Kara in the Kitchen
- The Pub Naples
- Body & Soul Healthy Meal Plans
- Corner Spot Diner + Drink
- Fernweh Ice Cream
- The Hampton Social
- Crisp & Green
- Naples Wine Collective & The Cave Bistro
- Naples Dining Company
- Joyful Wellness Personal Chef
- The Bowl
You’ll find “The Sips” from the following:
- Nauti Beach Coconut Rum (local to Fort Myers)
- Gather Beverage Company (local to SWFL)
- Keel & Curley Winery (local to Tampa Bay)
- R.A.D. Winery & Cidery (tasting rooms in Estero, Bonita, Cape Coral and Fort Myers)
- Garrison Brothers Whiskey
- Rancho La Gloria
- Dough Ball Cookie Dough Whiskey
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka
- BuzzBallz Cocktails
- LaCroix Sparkling Water
- Bubble Lounge sponsored by BMW
- Rums of Puerto Rico
- 1921 Tequila
- Josh Prosecco sponsored by Publix Wines
- The Crossings sponsored by Publix Wines
Check Out the Other Dates for the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience
Additional cities and event dates include Louisville, KY August 19; Nashville, TN August 26; Palm Desert, CA September 9; Raleigh, NC September 16; Jacksonville, FLSeptember 23; Naples, FL September 30; San Francisco, CA October 14; Indianapolis, IN October 21; Las Vegas, NV October 28 and Phoenix, AZ November 4.

Image provided by USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience
A Food Lover’s Paradise
Y’all know how much I love supporting the local food scene! With the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix, you get a taste of the local food scene provided by a nationally recognized culinary director, Jared Bobkin, the 4th place winner of Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen. We are so lucky to have this event right here in our corner of SWFL.
For those seeking the best food and wine festival in Southwest Florida, the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience 2023 is an unrivaled choice. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in the finest flavors, interact with culinary leaders, and elevate your palate. Join us at Paradise Coast Sports Complex for an extraordinary food experience that promises to be a culinary adventure like no other. Savor every bite, sip, and moment as we celebrate the art of gastronomy amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Naples, FL.
Don’t miss out on this amazing festival! Buy your tickets today! Ready to buy your tickets to the USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience presented by Publix? Buy tickets now and save 30% with promo code: EATDRINKSAVE
Like this post? Stick around for more of my local food adventure in Naples!
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