There are always excuses to eat, but I find that there are rarely opportunities to just completely go nuts and eat everything in sight. So when these opportunities do come along (vacations to Europe, birthdays, Thanksgiving), it's best to take complete advantage. For me, food festivals definitely qualify as all-you-can-eat events. I remember my parents bringing me to Taste of Bethesda every year when I was growing up, and how exciting it was to chow through streets and streets of delicious foods.

Starting right now, I'll be giving you guys a weekly heads up about upcoming Food Festivals from around the country. Sadly, we don't have too many in the Philadelphia area, so I'll be living vicariously through the comments of those of you who are able to attend -- please relay all of the juicy details!

There are details about this weekend's festivals after the jump. For those who can't attend, perhaps this sweet gallery from Taste of Vail (April 2-5, 2008) will carry us through. Expect more to come!



For this weekend, there are three festivals that I'd like to mention...

30th Annual Scottsdale Culinary Festival (April 8-13th, 2008): This Arizona Food Festival features chef's dinners, grill demonstrations, tastings, and a huge weekend picnic featuring with music, alcohol and food from over 50 restaurants. A number of chefs and foodies will be there as well, including Hell's Kitchen winner Rock. The events range from down-home to classy (check out the champagne tasting), with price ranges and activities to make everyone happy.

Florida Wine Festival (April 10-12, 2008): Get your drink on in Tallahassee. From a $75 per person reception to a free Community Festival, this festival is offering plenty of chances to sample local wines. Personally, I think the grape stomping competition on Saturday looks like the most fun.

Blue Ridge Food and Wine Festival (April 10-13, 2008): If you are going to be in the vicinity of Blowing Rock, NC this weekend, it would be a shame to miss this annual event. The fun includes cooking classes, dinners, chef's competitions, scavenger hunts and even a fashion show. And if you can't choose where to go, the site even offers sample itineraries for the "culture vulture," "early bird," and "late nighter." Um, how about all three?

So definitely let us know how these go if you choose to attend, and also keep us informed of any upcoming for festivals in your area.