Ditch the big crowds and enjoy a delightful, out-of-the-ordinary food scene in a more intimate setting. Raise a mug to fall menus and German beers at one of several Oktoberfests or a glass of bubbly that pairs well with oysters; steamed, fried or Rockefeller. Lunch and tour at a lavender farm. Enjoy all things apples including a live apple pressing. Savor some great whole hog BBQ, steamed oysters, and southern fixin’s at the Salt & Smoke Festival or dance the night away at the Cloth Mill’s Fall in Love Dinner & Gala. Partake in the art of fermentation. Yes, it’s an art and you’ll learn all about it at the Fermentation Fest!
Save the dates for these sure to please food and drink events in Chapel Hill and Orange County, NC happening this fall.
SEPTEMBER
9th – Fermentation Fest at B&B: Immerse yourself in a unique food and beverage festival that explores the fascinating world of fermentation. This event promises an enjoyable afternoon filled with captivating demonstrations, informative presentations, interactive hands-on workshops, delectable food tastings, and a vibrant market. 2- 6 pm at Botanist & Barrel, 105 Persimmon Hill Lane, Cedar Grove. The main event is free, there is a fee for workshops.
17th – Oktoberfest at Beer Study: It's that time of year to drink some fest beers! Beer Study Chapel Hill will have some delicious German beer on tap and available in liters. They are working on a food angle and will announce that when they have confirmation - stay tuned. Beer will be flowing from 1pm - 10 pm. The stein holding competition will start at 4pm. The winner receives a $50 gift card and keeps the glass. 504 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill.
19th – Oktoberfest Tapping Party and Menu Launch at Carolina Brewery Chapel Hill: Come celebrate a fall-inspired Oktoberfest food menu with live music. Tap starts flowing at 5:30 pm. Carolina Brewery 460 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill.
19th – Negroni Pairing at Market & Moss: Taste four Conniption Negronis paired with four small bites with Melissa Katrincic Co-founder and CEO of Durham Distillery and Market & Moss Executive Chef Gordon McLaughlin. 5:00 pm. 700 Market Street, Southern Village, Chapel Hill.
30th – Apple Fest with Live Apple Pressing at B&B: Apple Season will be in full swing so it's time for a big ‘ol apple fest! They will fire up the big apple press and press apples all afternoon for a special cider release the following summer. You will be able to try fresh-pressed apple juice, mill apples, watch as they press, and learn all about making cider! PLUS enjoy new cider releases, cider flights, fresh apple cider donuts, hot mulled cider - both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options are available, apples for sale and to taste, fireplaces to keep you warm, Porrons and a Txotx for cider-drinking fun, Farm Pizza on the wood-fired oven offering up a classic margarita pizza as well as a special Tarte Flambée with caramelized apples and live music from the Swingbillies of Boonetown Fiddling duo. Botanist & Barrel, 105 Persimmon Hill Lane, Cedar Grove. The fun happens from 1 – 6 pm. Advanced tickets required.
OCTOBER
7th & 8th – Oktoberfest at Pluck Farm: Put on your lederhosen, grab a stein, and join Pluck Farm and Steel String Brewery for two days full of festivities for all ages with live bands, stein hoisting competitions, a kinder bouncy castle, bratwurst, pretzels and of course - beer! Festive attire is encouraged so get your dirndl, lederhosen and Bavarian hats ready! Pluck Farm is located at 6901 NC-54 West, Mebane.
18th & 25th – Lavender Lunch Tours at Lavender Oaks Farm: We highly recommend booking now as tickets go fast! October is such a beautiful time on the lavender farm! The fall colors are amazing and since the lavender is an evergreen you'll experience it in an entirely surprising and wonderful way even without blooms! Guests will dine inside the main historic barn and be treated to a short presentation from the owner, Mrs. Lavender (Karen Macdonald) on the wild journey to build their dream farm. Lunch will be served buffet style and a wine pairing is included, plus a lavender sachet. 3833 Millard Whitley Rd., Chapel Hill.
21st – Oysters & Bubbles Patio Party: Oysters and Champagne? YES PLEASE! Join Market and Moss on their patio from 4p to 8p for a dozen oysters (steamed, fried, and Rockefeller) from Market and Moss plus pours of four different bubbles curated by Rocks + Acid! Additional oysters and bites available for a la carte purchase at event. Regular dinner menu will not be available. 700 Market Street, Southern Village, Chapel Hill.
28th – Fall in Love Dinner & Gala at the Cloth Mill: Indulge in a delectable dinner prepared by our renowned chef, featuring a variety of mouthwatering dishes that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for a romantic night out, this event is perfect for everyone. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you enjoy personal table service, live music and entertainment throughout the evening. The outdoor lounge in the courtyard will be open for social relaxation. You can even dance the night away with your loved ones or make new connections with fellow attendees. 7pm - 11 pm. 437 Dimmocks Mill Road #3 Hillsborough.
28th – Salt & Smoke Festival at the Barn at Sonark Media: An unforgettable day party to celebrate fall in North Carolina. Join in for an afternoon of delicious whole hog BBQ, oysters, and your favorite southern food by Chef Kevin Callaghan. Music, drinks, magic, and more. 2pm – 8 pm. Barn at Sonark Media, 913 Borland Rd., Hillsborough.
(Top photo: Salt & Smoke Fest | November 3, 2018 | Rock Quarry Farm | Steamed Oysters)
