Sample the Sierra returns September 19, 2026, celebrating Tahoe’s best food, craft beverages, artisan makers
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — The Tahoe Chamber is bringing back Sample the Sierra, South Lake Tahoe’s premier Food & Wine Festival, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Bijou Community Park. This annual celebration showcases the region’s exceptional culinary talent, craft beverages, local artisans, and vibrant community spirit in one unforgettable afternoon.
From 1-4 p.m., guests will enjoy tastings from regional restaurants, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and specialty beverage producers while browsing an artisan marketplace filled with handcrafted goods, fine art, jewelry, home décor, and more.
One of the festival’s signature experiences is the collaboration between chefs and craft beverage producers. Each participating restaurant is thoughtfully paired with a winery, brewery, or distillery to create complementary food and beverage pairings, allowing guests to discover unique flavor combinations while experiencing the creativity and craftsmanship of the Sierra Nevada’s culinary community.
“Sample the Sierra is a true celebration of the people and businesses that make our region so unique,” said Jessica Grime, CEO of the Tahoe Chamber. “From talented chefs and craft beverage producers to local makers and artists, the festival brings our community together while giving visitors an authentic taste of everything that makes South Lake Tahoe special.”
More than 1,500 guests are expected to attend this year’s festival, enjoying live music by The Residents Tahoe and Mic Smith, and the opportunity to meet the chefs, brewers, winemakers, distillers, and artisans behind the products they love.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets to relax beneath the towering pines of Bijou Community Park while enjoying live entertainment throughout the afternoon. Complimentary bike valet service and the Lake Link will once again be available to encourage sustainable travel to the event.
Tickets are on sale now at SampleTheSierra.com. Admission includes food and beverage tastings throughout the festival, and children ages 8 and under receive free admission, making it a fun experience for the whole family.
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