The Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival is a special event presented by Bank of America in collaboration with Albany Wine and Dine for the Arts, and the goal is to highlight local restaurants, chefs, and their cuisine. Funds raised from the event support the city's arts organizations.
Throughout the weekend, you will taste top-of-the-line food and wine pairings, and will learn about the impressive art of food and wine preparation with educational seminars.
Schedule:
Thursday, January 23, 2025
5:30pm Mayor’s Reception & Kickoff
Join the Albany Mayor and the Festival Board of Directors for a special reception and kickoff event at Albany City Hall. Attendees can enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wines, cider, and champagne. You'll have a chance to mingle with festival supporters, arts beneficiaries, business leaders, and more.

Friday, January 24, 2025
4:00pm Grand Tastings & Seminars
The Grand Tastings & Seminars will be held at the Albany Capital Center. There will be over 100 food, wine, spirit, cider, and beer vendors from across the Capital Region.
Highlights will also include the interactive food seminars, the Battle of the Bartenders, and more.
8:00pm Slider Slam!
After Friday’s Grand Tasting, head to the 16th annual Slider Slam at the Albany Capital Center! Ten top chefs compete for Judges’ and People’s Choice awards, while a live DJ, dance floor, and drinks—including signature cocktails and local beers—keep the party going. Don’t miss this epic night!

Saturday, January 25, 2025
12:00pm Grand Tastings & Seminars
The Grand Tastings & Seminars will be held at the Albany Capital Center. There will be over 100 food, wine, spirit, cider, and beer vendors from across the Capital Region.
Highlights will also include the interactive food seminars, the Battle of the Bartenders, and more.
6:00pm Grand Gala Reception & 5-Course Dinner
The festival’s Grand Gala begins Saturday evening with a champagne toast and a reception celebrating regional culinary artistry. Guests will enjoy a five-course dinner crafted by renowned Signature Chefs, blending bold flavors with Italian inspiration.
Live art performances and auctions, including a live auction led by Legrande Serras, offer exclusive prizes, with proceeds benefiting arts programs. This unforgettable evening celebrates community, creativity, and exceptional cuisine.

Sunday, January 26, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm Bonus Event: Wine & Dine and Brunch!
End the festival weekend in style at Wine & Dine and Brunch! at Hattie’s in Albany on Sunday, January 26. This exciting new event caps off the 2025 festival, celebrating culinary excellence and community spirit.
Enjoy an exclusive brunch menu crafted by Chef Jasper Alexander, inspired by Hattie’s signature Southern cuisine, featuring unique dishes perfectly paired with mimosas and specialty drinks.

1:00pm-3:00pm Bonus Event: Wine & Dine and Brunch!
End the festival weekend in style at Wine & Dine and Brunch! at Hattie’s in Albany on Sunday, January 26. This exciting new event caps off the 2025 festival, celebrating culinary excellence and community spirit.
Enjoy an exclusive brunch menu crafted by Chef Jasper Alexander, inspired by Hattie’s signature Southern cuisine, featuring unique dishes perfectly paired with mimosas and specialty drinks.

Date:January 23-26,2025
Location:Various Venue in Albany
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