Looking for the best food and drink festival in Northern Virginia this fall? Mark your calendar for Taste of NoVA 2025, happening October 11 and 12 at NOVA LIVE in Manassas. Hosted by Northern Virginia Magazine, this two-day culinary celebration is back — bigger, bolder, and more flavorful than ever.
“This year, in addition to delicious food and drink tastings, we’re giving guests a behind-the-line experience,” says Sang Yang, CEO of Northern Virginia Magazine. “From live cooking demos to expert pours, Taste of NoVA 2025 will be interactive and unforgettable.”
The event, empowered by Northern Virginia Food Rescue, will feature tastings from more than 120 of the region’s hottest restaurants and award-winning wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Whether you’re a local foodie or visiting the DC area this fall, Taste of NoVA offers a full-sensory experience for culinary enthusiasts.
There are can’t-miss live cooking demos from top culinary stars, including chef Matt Hill of Ruthie’s All-Day and chef Bertrand Chemel of 2941 Restaurant. Guests will have the rare chance to watch celebrated chefs craft their signature dishes — and hear the stories behind them.
Also debuting this year is a dynamic speaker series. These intimate conversations with expert sommeliers, brewmasters, distillers, and mixologists will offer insight into pairing techniques, craft innovation, and the artistry behind the region’s most notable beverages. Becky Harris of Catoctin Creek Distillery and Tracy Waldron of Virginia Wine & Spirits Academy are two of the featured speakers.
Taste of NoVA’s curated lineup of award-winning restaurants and beverage producers includes The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm, CHIKO, Bastille Brasserie & Bar, King Family Vineyards, Eavesdrop Brewery, and many more. Plus, new talent will be announced to the lineup weekly.
Day 1 on October 11 focuses on Signature Sips & Bites, while Day 2 on October 12 is the Grand Tasting — but a two-day pass gives foodies the chance to indulge in it all.
From live chef demos and wine tastings to expert-led discussions and award-winning restaurants, Taste of NoVA stands out as one of the best things to do in Northern Virginia and the DC metro area this October.
Visit TasteOfNoVA.com for more details and to purchase tickets.
Feature image courtesy Northern Virginia Magazine
