Food, Wine & Fete Returns to Miami: An Immersive Caribbean Culinary Carnival Under the Stars
On May 17, 2025, Miami's culinary and cultural spotlight turns once again to Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, as Food, Wine & Fete makes its highly anticipated return. Now in its third year, the all-inclusive, Caribbean-style soirée is more than just a celebration—it’s a statement. Created by Vanessa James Media Productions and powered by LunaLite Drone Technologies, this immersive Soca fete blends high-end gastronomy, heritage, and rhythm into one electrifying evening, all set against the backdrop of a landmark venue celebrating its 80th anniversary.
Curated with the precision of a luxury tasting menu and the spirit of a true island lime, the event brings together the Caribbean’s most lauded chefs, award-winning mixologists, beloved Soca artists, and a diaspora-driven community that knows how to fête.
A Culinary Roster Designed to Dazzle
Leading the lineup is Chef Irie, a James Beard Award winner and festival culinary ambassador whose “Food on Fiyah” mantra ignites every dish he touches. He’s joined this year by Chef Simeon Hall Jr., the Emmy-winning Bahamian powerhouse delivering a live demo that traverses all 700 islands of his homeland.
Also turning up the heat:
Chef Troy Tingling of SoulFly Chicken, who returns with two live showcases and recipes straight from his world tour.
Chef Paul Griffith, a Barbados-born talent beloved by Miami's elite and NFL teams alike, headlines the VIP experience with his Bajan Shrimp and Crab Salad Martini.
Chef Kimesha Chong brings refined Caribbean vegan and vegetarian cuisine through her dynamic Kanin Catering concepts.
Chef Christian Barruos-Brens offers a deeply personal tribute with his signature Freddy SmashBurger, a culinary homage to his Dominican roots and late father.
Chef Mimi Charles, Miami’s own pastry queen and Cooking Channel champion, serves up rum- and wine-infused cake jars that were last year’s breakout sensation.
Chef Arry, debuting with Indo-Caribbean fusion, invites guests to savor his bite-sized curry delights.
Together, these tastemakers form the cultural and culinary heartbeat of Food, Wine & Fete—a festival where every dish tells a story of home, heritage, and modern-day mastery.
Soca, Spirits, and Skyline Spectacles
The pulse of any true Caribbean celebration is the music, and FWF delivers a full throttle sound experience. Taking center stage is Trinidadian Soca legend Farmer Nappy, delivering his decades of dancefloor anthems, while Chef Irie fires up the demo kitchen in tandem.
The DJ lineup promises high-energy riddims all night long with DJ Spice (Team Soca), LL Cool Blaze, DJ Eternal Vibes, and DJ Sinister keeping waistlines moving. Emcees Barrie Hype and Giselle the Wassi One will guide the night with charisma and crowd energy to match.
To close the celebration: a spectacular drone show over the Miami skyline, courtesy of LunaLite Drone Technologies, marking the finale of this sensory-rich evening.
Beyond the Bash: Purpose and Community
This year, Food, Wine & Fete deepens its mission with the launch of the VJMedia x FWF Culture and Caribbean Leadership Fund, established in partnership with The Miami Foundation. Designed to uplift and support Caribbean creatives, chefs, and small businesses across the diaspora, the fund represents the festival’s expanding legacy—a celebration not just of culture, but of community empowerment.
“From the moment you arrive, you'll be part of something truly special. It’s a shared experience—an interactive celebration that ignites the spirit of our culture.”
Marcos Rodriguez, Co-Founder of The Food, Wine & Fete Festival
Ticketing, Travel, and Tasting
General admission starts at $125, while VIP tickets—offering exclusive chef experiences and spirits—are available for $185. For out-of-town guests or locals seeking a staycation, the Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South is offering special group rates.
Sponsors and Spirits
Brands featured include LaFete Rosé, Bajan 1966 Rum, DonDadda Tequila, Duke and Dame Whiskey, Carib Beer, and Caribe, with hospitality partners such as The Montpelier Hotel Nevis, The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, and Best Dressed Plate.
Food, Wine & Fete is a cultural moment, a curated indulgence, and a full-sensory passport to the Caribbean spirit. One ticket unlocks a journey through taste, music, and memory—where every bite, beat, and pour echoes with the flavors of home.
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