FAQs

  • I’ve never been to the festival before. Can you tell me about it? What should I attend?

    Welcome to Charleston Wine + Food! We’re so excited you are interested in attending the festival! The annual festival takes place the first full weekend in March, and the 2024 dates are March 6-10. Consisting of in-restaurant brunches, lunches, and dinners, cooking classes, beverage workshops, large walkabout thematic events, educational excursions, and a large sampling experience at Riverfront Park, there is an experience for everyone! 

    Have additional questions? Feel free to email ticketing@charlestonwineandfood.com or give us a call at (843) 727-9998.

  • When does the festival take place?

    The annual festival is held the first full weekend in March. The dates for the 2024 festival are March 6-10.

  • Where does the festival take place?

    Events take place all across Charleston! We’ve historically held events across the Charleston Peninsula as well as in North Charleston, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Johns Island, and more!

  • Is Charleston Wine + Food a nonprofit?

    We are a year-round 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are proud to say that 93 cents of every dollar spent producing the annual festival is mission-based and in 2022, the five-day festival created an economic impact of $26.5 million.

  • What are Charleston Wine + Food's commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion?

    Each and every day, we are committed to putting people first.

    Through food, events, and collaboration, we work internally + externally to ensure the unique perspectives brought to the table are valued, strengthen us, and allow us to see the world through a fresh lens. We celebrate talent, passion, and community through our commitment to producing experiences where all people – regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity, abilities, faith, and any other social identity – feel welcome and are woven into the fabric of the festival we collectively imagine.

  • What does the festival benefit?

    The annual festival is integral to the organization’s focus. It’s a platform to share stories, elevate the people in this community, celebrate our city and the Lowcountry, and create an enriching experience for the people who live + work here. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ticket sales go directly to the production of the annual festival.

    93 cents of every dollar we spend producing the festival has a direct measurable impact on our city’s economy. Year after year, the economic impact of Charleston Wine + Food is more than quadruple the organization’s annual budget.

  • What do ticket sales support?

    As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ticket sales go directly to the production of the festival. 93 cents of every dollar we spend producing the festival has a direct measurable impact on our city’s economy. By purchasing a ticket to a festival event, you are helping us to support our local food and beverage community to participate in this festival, share the unique stories and histories of our foodways, and create a meaningful economic impact on our city.

  • Are Charleston Wine + Food tickets tax deductible?

    No, Charleston Wine + Food festival tickets are not tax deductible.

  • What is the Friends of the Festival program and how do I join?

    Joining our Friends of the Festival program is the most intimate way to experience Charleston Wine + Food. Our Friends receive early access to tickets before public on-sale, a personal concierge to handle all ticketing + festival needs, limited access to sold-out events, VIP treatment throughout the festival week, and a curated festival badge. Learn more about becoming a Friend and take your festival experience to the next level.

  • I’m interested in volunteering. Who do I talk to?

    Charleston Wine + Food wouldn’t be possible without our wonderful volunteers, and we are always looking for people who are interested in volunteering during the festival! Are you passionate about Charleston, its culinary + hospitality community, and looking to get involved? Fill out this interest form!

  • I’m interested in participating as Talent. Who do I talk to?

    The community of Charleston Wine + Food is a diverse and passionate ensemble dedicated to great food, fresh ingredients, amazing wines, beers and cocktails, and of course, Charleston. Send us a note today! Let us know who you are, what you do, and what you hope to accomplish through your participation.

  • What are the dates for the 2024 festival?

    The dates for the 2024 festival are Wednesday, March 6 – Sunday, March 10.

  • What is the bag policy?

    ALL BAGS MUST BE CLEAR except for small personal clutches (no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”). No backpacks, coolers, or large purses are permitted at festival events.

  • What items are prohibited at the festival?

    ALL BAGS MUST BE CLEAR except for small personal clutches (no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″). No backpacks, coolers, large purses, lawn chairs, or outside food + beverage are permitted at festival events. 

    No firearms or weapons are permitted. Violators are considered trespassers and are subject to forfeiture or arrest. 

     

    Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:

    – Non-clear bags larger than 4.5” x 6.5”

    – Backpacks, coolers, or large purses

    – Firearms or weapons

    – Illegal substances

    – Outside food 

    – Lawn furniture or chairs

    – Pets (service animals are permitted)

     

    All Charleston Wine + Food events are non-smoking.

  • Are all Charleston Wine + Food events 21+?

    All Charleston Wine + Food events are 21+, with the exception of Street Fest. Valid ID is required at all events. If event security cannot verify your age, you will not be admitted into the event. Anyone under the age of 21 will be refused entry and tickets will not be refunded. Please do not bring infants or small children in child carriers or strollers, as they will not be permitted entry.

    *Street Fest is a family-friendly event and we welcome people of all ages

  • Can I bring my kids?

    All festival events are 21 and older, with the exception of Street Fest.. No children or infants (even in strollers or carriers) are allowed to attend any festival event.

     

    *Street Fest is a family-friendly event and we welcome people of all ages

  • Are pets allowed at events?

    Pets, emotional support, therapy, or companion animals are not permitted at any Charleston Wine + Food event.

    Service animals are permitted throughout the festival. They must be properly trained and under proper care of their owners; remain by the handler’s side at all times and be harnessed, leashed, or tethered; be housebroken and relieve themselves outdoors; and be up to date on all legally required vaccinations. Anyone bringing a service animal will be responsible for and liable for any damage or injury the animal causes.

  • How do I get around during the festival?

    There are a variety of ways to get around in Charleston, but we recommend downloading a rideshare app and requesting a ride to your desired location. Charleston Wine + Food does not want attendees to drink + drive. We encourage our guests to take alternative means of transportation.

    Attending Culinary Village @ Riverfront Park? We offer a round-trip shuttle from downtown Charleston directly to the Culinary Village. Round-trip shuttle tickets cost $35 and must be purchased in advance.

  • Where do you park for events?

    While certain event spaces offer parking on site, parking is limited in Charleston, especially downtown! Parking lots + garages are located throughout Charleston; look for the green “P” signs that indicate parking. Metered parking is also available on King, Calhoun, and Meeting Streets, as well as in the surrounding neighborhoods. Meters in Downtown Charleston must be paid daily until 6:00 PM (Monday – Saturday). We recommend carpooling when traveling as a group or utilizing a rideshare provider.

  • Where is the best place to stay during the festival?

    Coming to Charleston from out of town? Take a look at our recommendations on where to stay and where to eat + drink while visiting!

  • What do I do if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?

    If you are attending an in-restaurant brunch, lunch, or Signature Dinner and have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please email ticketing@charlestonwineandfood.com. The chefs at these events will do their best to accommodate special dietary needs, but we emphasize this is only a request. All requests must be received two weeks prior to the festival.

    While chefs provide a variety of food offerings at events, all other events are not able to accommodate special dietary needs or food allergies.

  • Do I need to bring my ID?

    All Charleston Wine + Food attendees and participants must be 21 years of age or older. Please bring valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, for proof of age. Anyone that appears to be under the age of 40 may be asked to present their ID at any event festival-wide.

  • When do tickets go on sale for the 2024 festival?

    Tickets for the 2024 festival go on sale Thursday, October 19, 2023 @ 11 AM at chswf.com. For early access to purchase tickets, consider our Friends of the Festival program.

  • How do I purchase tickets?

    You can purchase tickets online at chswf.com beginning Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 11 AM. Have a question about an event or need help choosing an experience? Email ticketing@charlestonwineandfood.com or give us a call at (843) 727-9998.

  • I have a question about my ticket.

    Please email ticketing@charlestonwineandfood.com and our ticketing team will be happy to help you!

  • I purchased tickets but did not receive a confirmation email. Please help!

    Confirmation emails will be sent from our ticketing company, SquadUP. During high-peak times, confirmation emails can sometimes take up to 30 minutes to process. We also recommend checking your spam folder. If you are still unable to locate your confirmation email, please call our ticketing team at (843) 727-9998.

    If you purchase a Weekender or Weekender+, you will not receive a ticket attached to your confirmation email. You will receive a physical badge to wear during the festival that will serve as the ticket to your events.

  • What’s included in the ticket price for events?

    All Charleston Wine + Food events are all-inclusive, meaning all food + beverage samples and experiences are included with the purchase of a ticket, with the exception of Street Fest. Select events also allow for the opportunity to purchase larger food portions, artisanal goods, and Charleston Wine + Food retail items. 

  • Does Charleston Wine + Food offer payment plans?

    We do! The minimum spend to qualify for setting up your purchase on a payment plan is $100, and no additional fees or additional interest will be incurred to utilize the payment plan feature.

    By signing up for the payment plan you are authorizing SquadUP to automatically charge your credit card on file on the agreed upon dates. All ticket payments are non-refundable. If any of your subsequent payment installments are unsuccessful or default, Charleston Wine + Food will retain any existing payment installments and you will not receive the tickets associated with the order.

    Once the final installment payment has been successfully processed, an email with a link to download your tickets will be sent to the address on file within 3-5 business days. Please contact support@squadup.com with any questions regarding your payment plan. 

  • Do you offer discounted tickets for those who do not drink alcohol?

    We offer a variety of food, beverages (including non-alcoholic options), and experiences offered and therefore, we do not offer discounted tickets.

  • How much do tickets cost?

    All Charleston Wine + Food tickets are à la carte pricing and range in price based on the format + intimacy of the event.

  • Do you offer a weekend pass?

    Yes! We have two weekend pass options available for 2024:

    – The Weekender offers a VIP Culinary Village experience, access to two Signature Events, a gift with purchase, and exclusive on-the-ground badge holder perks.

    -The newly added Weekender+ offers a VIP Culinary Village experience, a gift with purchase, access to five Signature Events, and exclusive on-the-ground badge holder perks.

    Grab your friends, mark your calendars, and get ready to fest!

  • Am I expected to tip at in-restaurant brunches, lunches, and dinners?

    Guests are not expected to tip on top of the ticket price. 

  • Are tickets refundable?

    Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable between events. All events will take place rain or shine and event details are subject to change. We recommend reviewing the full event descriptions on our website before purchasing tickets.

    If the event is sold out and has an active waitlist, you may return your ticket through Charleston Wine + Food’s Official Ticket Exchange powered by Squadup by emailing
    chswf-returns@squadup.com

    If your tickets are purchased by another guest, you will receive a refund for the amount of the tickets, less the processing and credit card fees.

  • What happens in the event of bad weather?

    All events take place rain or shine. Weather contingency plans are in place for each event.

  • When should I buy my tickets?

    We recommend purchasing your tickets early, as events sell out quickly! 

  • Will an event sell out?

    Many events sell out within the first few days following ticket launch, and most events sell out before the actual festival weekend. All events are limited and Charleston Wine + Food encourages all interested guests to purchase tickets in advance to ensure attendance.

    Looking to get access to a sold out event? Join the waitlist on the corresponding event page! If tickets becomes available, you’ll receive an email notification from chswf-returns@squadup.com to purchase the tickets at face value.

  • Why are some events sold out or limited in quantity prior to ticket launch?

    One of the benefits of being a Friend of the Festival is receiving early access to tickets prior to public on-sale. Additionally, select festival partners receive early access to tickets. Learn more about becoming a Friend of the Festival and take your festival experience to the next level.

  • What is the process for receiving tickets once they are ordered?

    Each ticket holder will receive a confirmation email within 15 minutes after the order is placed with your ticket(s) attached. If using the SquadUP app, you can save your tickets to your Apple Wallet or passbook. If you do not receive your tickets, please check your spam folder or email ticketing@charlestonwineandfood.com.

    ATTENTION: DO NOT COPY YOUR TICKETS! All tickets will be scanned for authenticity and only the first ticket scanned will be converted to an event wristband.

  • How do I locate my ticket?

    You can locate your ticket by opening your original confirmation email that you received at the time of ticket purchase. Your ticket(s) will be attached to that email. While we recommend downloading the SquadUP app or saving the ticket PDF directly to your phone, you may also print out the ticket and show upon arrival. 

    PLEASE NOTE: If any event logistics (such as location, time, etc.) change, the PDF ticket in your original email confirmation will not automatically update. Charleston Wine + Food will notify guests of any logistical changes.

  • I purchased The Weekender and/or The Weekender+ but there were no tickets attached to my email. 

    Because you purchased The Weekender you will receive a physical badge for the event as opposed to a ticket; this is why a ticket is not attached to your confirmation email. Stay tuned for information on how to receive your badge for the festival.

  • Where do I pick up my wristband?

    Select festival events have wristbands, which will be distributed at the gate of each event. You must have a printed ticket or barcode on your phone to present at the gate for wristband and event entry. Wristbands must be worn at all times. Individuals not wearing a wristband will not be allowed entry, no exceptions. Please do not lose or remove your wristband – these are not replaceable.

  • What is the Culinary Village?

    The Culinary Village has long been the cornerstone of the festival and is Charleston Wine + Food’s largest sampling experience. Enjoy bites + sips, chef demos, immersive experiences, live music, retail therapy, and more! Tickets to the Culinary Village are available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and are all individually ticketed. 

    All samples + experiences are included in the ticket price. VIP pass options are available along with the opportunity for in-event purchases.

  • Where is the Culinary Village located?

    The Culinary Village is held at beautiful Riverfront Park in the City of North Charleston. Located at 1061 Everglades Ave, the Culinary Village boasts beautiful waterfront views and is convenient to the entire region.

  • What do you receive with admission to the Culinary Village?

    The General Admission ticket includes four-hour access to Culinary Village, which includes:

    – A feast of flavors to sample + savor, featuring a lineup of local chefs + caterers serving up bites of Lowcountry staple dishes

    – A smorgasbord of wine, beer, and spirits samplings along with non-alcoholic offerings

    – Opportunities to purchase larger portions of Charleston-inspired dishes

    – A retail destination featuring regional artisans, pop-up farmer’s market, Book Nook with daily meet + greets and author signings, and official CHSWF merchandise

    – A demo stage featuring competition, culinary, and cocktails.

    – Complimentary commemorative crystal CHSWF glass (retails for $15) 

    – Live music

    – Access to purchase ticket for shuttle making roundtrips from downtown to Riverfront Park (must be reserved in advance)

    The CV Day Pass includes everything included in the General Admission ticket PLUS:

    – One hour early access to Culinary Village

    – Complimentary round-trip shuttle from Downtown Charleston 

    – Commemorative gift

    – Dedicated entrance

    – Dedicated restrooms throughout the event

    – Exclusive VIP experience including a badge-holder lounge with food samples and a complimentary bar curated with local mixologists and wine + beer offerings

    Interested in attending multiple days of the Culinary Village? The Weekender or The Weekender+ might be for you!
    – The Weekender is your ticket to all three days of the Culinary Village in VIP fashion along with your ticket to two marquee festival events.
    – Upgrade to the Weekender+ for all three days of the Culinary Village in VIP fashion along with your ticket to five marquee festival events.

  • Is the Culinary Village all-inclusive?

    The Culinary Village is all inclusive, meaning all food + drink samples and experiences are included with the purchase of your ticket. You will be able to purchase larger food portions, artisanal goods, and CHSWF retail within the event landscape.

  • What is the difference between purchasing an à la carte Culinary Village ticket and The CV Pass?

    The CV Day Pass allow guests to experience the Culinary Village in VIP fashion. 

    The General Admission ticket includes four-hour access to Culinary Village, which includes:

    – A feast of flavors to sample + savor, featuring a lineup of local chefs + caterers serving up bites of Lowcountry staple dishes

    – A smorgasbord of wine, beer, and spirits samplings along with non-alcoholic offerings

    – Opportunities to purchase larger portions of Charleston-inspired dishes

    – A retail destination featuring regional artisans, pop-up farmer’s market, Book Nook with daily meet + greets and author signings, and official CHSWF merchandise

    – A demo stage featuring competition, culinary, cocktail, and even comedy!

    – Complimentary commemorative crystal CHSWF glass (retails for $15) 

    – Live music

    – Access to purchase ticket for shuttle making roundtrips from downtown to Riverfront Park (must be reserved in advance)

    The CV Day Pass includes everything in the General Admission ticket PLUS:

    – One hour early access to Culinary Village

    – Complimentary round-trip shuttle from Downtown Charleston 

    – Commemorative gift

    – Dedicated entrance

    – Dedicated restrooms throughout the event

    – Exclusive VIP experience including a badge-holder lounge with food samples and a complimentary bar curated with local mixologists and wine + beer offerings

  • I purchased The Weekender/ The Weekender+. Do I need to purchase daily Culinary Village tickets in addition to the pass?

    If you purchased The Weekender or The Weekender+ you do not need to purchase additional tickets to receive admission into the event. The pass acts as your ticket to Culinary Village and the VIP experiences included. If you would like to purchase additional tickets to events not included in your pass or à la carte Culinary Village tickets for friends or family, you are able to do so at chswf.com.

  • Will there be a shuttle from Downtown Charleston?

    Yes, there will be a shuttle from Downtown Charleston to Riverfront Park! Daily round trip tickets cost $35 through February 22nd. The price of the shuttle will increase to $50 starting February 23rd. Tickets must be reserved in advance. If you have purchased The CV Pass, The Weekender or The Weekender+ , the shuttle is already included with the purchase of your ticket.

  • Will there be a rideshare pick up / drop off area?

    Charleston Wine + Food will have a designated rideshare pick up / drop off location for those who choose to use these services.

    1. Set GPS to Riverfront park address 1061 Everglades Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405.

    2. When you arrive at the Riverfront Park entrance, look for the Rideshare Drop Off + Pick Up Signs located at the corner of N. Hobson Ave and Shipbuilding Way. A parking lot attendant will be at the main entrance to help assist you with directions or any questions.

    3. Turn on to Shipbuilding Way.

    4. Drop off is located on the sidewalks closest to the park.

    Things to know before you go:

    – ALL BAGS MUST BE CLEAR, Except for small personal clutches (no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″) 

    – Have a Valid government-issued ID

    – Exit rideshare and cross over to Main Entrance to park

    – Please be prepared for a 7-10 minute walk to the entrance

  • Is there parking?

    Ample parking is available at Culinary Village @ Riverfront Park. The CHSWF App will be available for download in early 2024, where you can see a detailed parking map with marked lots.

  • Can I park my car overnight?

    Yes, you may park your car overnight in one of the designated event parking lots. Charleston Wine + Food is not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles or its contents.

  • Is glassware included in my Culinary Village ticket?

    Yes. You will receive one commemorative wine glass. One glass will be issued per guest. Please treat it with kindness.

  • What items are prohibited in the Culinary Village?

    ALL BAGS MUST BE CLEAR except for small personal clutches (no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″). No backpacks, coolers, large purses, lawn chairs, or outside food + beverage are permitted at festival events. 

    No firearms or weapons are permitted. Violators are considered trespassers and are subject to forfeiture or arrest. 

    All Charleston Wine + Food events – including the Culinary Village @ Riverfront Park – are non-smoking.

  • Can I leave the Culinary Village and return the same day?

    Yes, you may leave the Culinary Village and return that day; however, you MUST keep your wristband on to gain re-entry. If your wristband is removed, you will not be re-admitted into the event. You’ll also want to hold onto your complimentary glassware, as only one glass will be issued per guest. 

  • Can I smoke in the park?

    No. All Charleston Wine + Food events are non-smoking.

  • How can I stay hydrated at the festival?

    There will be barrels throughout the Culinary Village with bottles of still and sparkling water!

  • What is Charleston Wine + Food doing to address food waste?

    We compost our waste, flatware, and plateware. All of our flatware + plateware is made from fallen leaves and is BPI-certified compostable. You will see numerous composting stations throughout the Culinary Village. At the completion of the festival, we will be donating our compost to a local farm. 

    In 2020, we proudly rescued 2,780 pounds of food for donation to One80 Place, diverted 6.6 tons of recycling and 3,000 pounds of glassware from a landfill, and created 155 pounds of compost. We strive to be a good steward of our city + its foodways by being mindful of our ecological footprint and supporting the community in which we live.

  • Do you recycle?

    Of course! Festival items that cannot be composted are recycled, and wine bottles from the Culinary Village become recycled glass countertops and “foam glass” to be used in building + construction. Additionally, all oyster shells are recycled in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources.

  • How is Charleston Wine + Food reducing its carbon footprint?

    Through efforts like going strawless, offering napkins only upon request, implementing water usage protocols in our prep kitchens, digitizing handbooks + internal documents, launching a festival app, and implementing eco-friendly cleaning materials + pesticides, Charleston Wine + Food has made considerable efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.

  • What other measures are you taking to increase sustainability at the festival?

    We strive to find a new life for as many items used during the festival as possible. Over 75% of all design elements are reused year-over-year or rented, and many festival events include a commemorative wine glass with the purchase of a ticket.