A Culinary Celebration: The 2026 Sun Valley Food & Wine Celebration
The Sun Valley Food & Wine Celebration is set to return for its fourth annual event from January 27 to 31, 2026, promising an exciting lineup of culinary experiences. This year, a new highlight will be the Wine Tasting & Seafood Extravaganza, taking place at the Limelight Hotel Ketchum. This addition is expected to elevate the festival’s reputation as a premier destination for food and wine enthusiasts.
Star-Studded Chef Lineup
Seventeen renowned chefs will grace the event, including James Beard Award winners and Food Network celebrities. This diverse group of culinary talent will showcase their skills and creativity, offering attendees a unique opportunity to savor exquisite dishes. Among the participating chefs are Brandon Randolph, Britt Rescigno, Brother Luck, Jonathon Sawyer, and Kelsey Barnard Clark, each bringing their distinctive culinary styles to the table.
Signature Events
The festival will feature a variety of signature events, including a VIP Gala at the Sun Valley Clubhouse and a Dinner and DJ at Trail Creek Cabin. The latter promises a multi-course dining experience, featuring dishes such as Broadleaf Game venison and Snake River Farms short ribs. Guests can expect to enjoy carefully curated wine pairings from esteemed wineries like AXR, Phifer Pavitt, Boiche Family Cellars, and Whitman Hill Winery, along with a special mocktail pairing. The evening will be enlivened by music from DJ Brother Luck, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees.
Returning Favorites
The Apres Ski Grand Tasting is back for its third year, alongside the fourth annual Britt’s Burger Bash, which will now take place at the Limelight Hotel instead of its previous venue, Apple’s Bar & Grill. These beloved events continue to draw crowds, offering a relaxed yet festive environment for guests to mingle and enjoy delicious food and drink.
Exclusive Private Dinners
In addition to the main events, the celebration will feature exclusive dinners hosted in private homes throughout Sun Valley. Attendees can indulge in authentic Sonoran cuisine prepared by Chef Maria Mazon, complemented by Luna Nueva Tequila. Other dinners will showcase the talents of Chef Ethan Stowell, who focuses on modern Italian dishes, and Chef Joe Sasto, known for his creative twists on classic techniques. Chef Tieghan Gerard will also present her take on traditional American cuisine, while Chefs John Sundstrom and Jason Wilson will pair their Pacific Northwest dishes with biodynamic wines from Cayuse Vineyards.
New and Returning Chefs
The festival will see a mix of returning and new chefs, including Barton Seaver, John Sundstrom, and Ethan Stowell, alongside newcomers like Casey Thompson, Duskie Estes, and John Stewart. Each chef brings a wealth of experience and unique stories to the event. For instance, Brother Luck, a favorite among culinary students at the Sun Valley Culinary Institute, has made a name for himself through appearances on popular cooking shows and has been recognized in prestigious publications.
VIP Packages and Accommodations
For those looking to enhance their experience, VIP packages are available, offering access to exclusive events such as the opening VIP Reception, cooking classes, and priority access to various tastings and dinners. Attendees can also take advantage of special lodging rates at Alpine Lodging and the Limelight Hotel Ketchum, making it easier to immerse themselves in the culinary festivities.
Learn More
For more information about the 2026 Sun Valley Food & Wine Celebration, including ticket details and event schedules, visit the official website at Sun Valley Culinary Institute. This celebration promises to be a feast for the senses, bringing together food lovers and culinary experts in a stunning mountain setting.
