Culture  Festivals

Charlotte StrEATS Festival returns to Uptown at new location

The fifth annual StrEATs Festival will bring foodies and flavors to Uptown’s First Ward Park on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12.

April 8, 2026 • 
Maria Adnado
An ice sculpture with the words Charlotte StrEATS Festival carved into it.

Get ready to sample cuisines from around the Queen City during the Charlotte StrEATS Festival.

Photo by Poprock Photography

Love Charlotte’s food scene? This weekend is basically its biggest party. The fifth annual Charlotte StrEATs Festival returns to Uptown on Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12, as part of Charlotte SHOUT!.

New this year, the two-day festival takes over First Ward Park for its weekend-long celebration. The event also marks the launch of the Charlotte StrEATs Foundation, which aims to support local culinary talent, nonprofits, and food education across the Queen City.

A young chef in a white coat putting the finishing touches on samples.

Get ready to sample different bites curated by local chefs and garnished by students at Johnson & Wales University.

Photo by Poprock Photography

Plan your visit:

  • Tasting Tour | Saturday, April 11 | 12-3 p.m. | $101+ | Taste your way through Charlotte’s neighborhoods, enjoy cooking demonstrations, and sip craft cocktails.
  • StrEATs Festival | Sunday, April 12 | 12-5 p.m. | Free+ | Sample the city’s top food and drink vendors, enjoy a cooking demonstration from Chef Jamie Lynch, and cheer on local chefs competing to be the StrEATs Neighborhood Champion.

Pro tip: Treat yourself and order a picnic basket for two — proceeds benefit the new foundation.

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