Festival Information and FAQs:

What is the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival?

As the oldest and most beloved food and wine festival in the U.S., the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival brings together the world’s top vintners, renowned celebrity chefs, as well as Maui and Hawaii’s favorite restaurants and local vendors to create magic once again at Kapalua Resort. The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival was initiated in the 1980’s by the Kapalua Wine Society. Throughout the years the host organization, charities, and event itself have evolved. The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival has become one of the most beloved celebrations of food and wine in the world and remains one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious educational events of its kind.

The weekend offers an array of events from interactive wine tasting seminars, intimate winemaker dinners, sampling unique and premium wines from around the globe and much more! Guests can mix and mingle with winemakers, chefs and other food aficionados while they sip, savor and sample the finest offerings from these rockstars of the culinary and wine universe!

What charities benefit from the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival?

The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival’s main charitable beneficiary is the University of Hawaii Maui College’s Culinary Arts Program. Through its donations, the event has been honored to support local students through scholarships and program underwriting for this culinary program. In addition, each year attending celebrity and local chefs mentor students in the program by allowing them to work alongside them at events throughout the weekend, with real time experience and instruction.

In the aftermath of the wildfires that devastated our hometown and local community, the event was able to expand its donations to support several grass roots initiatives that worked diligently to aid, restore and partner with local residents and businesses, including Chef Hui, Lahaina Restoration Foundation, Maui Pono and Hawaii Restaurant Association Educational Fund.

The event also supports the Aloha Sommelier Foundation whose mission is to Unite, educate, and inspire the Hawaii sommelier community through educational events and networking platforms leading to job opportunities, mentoring, and fellowship. The Foundation also worked diligently to help the Lahaina wildfire relief efforts by raising money to benefit impacted hospitality professionals. The money was directed to those who have lost property, jobs, and loved ones to aid them on their journey.

Additional beneficiaries have included the Lahainaluna Boarders Foundation, Aloha Puu Kukui

Can I bring a baby if they are in a stroller or carrier?

The Kapalua Wine and Food Festival is a 21+ experience—no exceptions, including infants and little ones in carriers. This policy applies to all events, from exciting demonstrations and insightful seminars to the unforgettable Grand Tasting Gala.

How can I get information about becoming a sponsor?

Let’s create something amazing together! Email info@kapaluawineandfood.com to explore sponsorship opportunities

How will my food allergies be accommodated?

The best way to ensure a dish meets your needs is to ask! Many of the chefs will be present and happy to discuss their creations, so don’t hesitate to check with them, or vendors about ingredients and potential allergens. The events feature a diverse selection of food and beverages from all categories. While we strive to offer something for everyone, we cannot guarantee that participating chefs and restaurants will prepare dishes without common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

When will future event dates be available?

Current event dates are on our homepage, for future events we generally announce shortly after the first of the year. Sign up for our newsletter to be among the first to know!

Should I attend the Gala even if I don't drink wine?

Absolutely! The Gala offers an incredible experience beyond wine, featuring extraordinary food, decadent desserts, and vibrant local live music. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or simply looking to enjoy a memorable evening, there’s plenty to savor and celebrate!

Festival Schedule

Schedule and attendees/participants/topics covered are subject to change without notice

Tickets

Tickets will be scanned at the entrance to each event. Please ensure you have your ticket ready—either printed with the barcode or accessible on your mobile device.

What is the closest airport?

For limited inter-island flights, the closest airport is the Kapalua Airport (JHM), located four miles from the resort. Most flights to Maui will arrive at Kahului Airport (OGG) located thirty miles from the resort.

Trasportation

Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Uber, Lyft, and taxis are conveniently available nearby. If you need assistance arranging a ride, our resort bell staff will be happy to help.

Stay Connected

Like, Share and Post! Use #kapaluawine – we enjoy seeing your posts and sharing your experiences during the event.

Promotion Release

Smile! By entering the festival you are agreeing to be photographed and an image of you may be used for promotional purposes.

What to Wear?

Set against the stunning and relaxed shores of Maui, seminars and cooking demonstrations call for resort casual attire—think sundresses, skirts with blouses, or shorts paired with a polo or aloha shirt.
For The Grand Tasting Gala, embrace elevated resort wear, such as chic cocktail dresses, elegant maxi or midi dresses, stylish aloha shirts paired with linen trousers or tailored shorts, and your best slippahs or dressy sandals.

Who Can Attend?

All festival events are 21 and older. We love kids and pets, but no children, infants (even in strollers or carriers) or pets are allowed to attend any festival event for the safety of all parties.