Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival (November 21-23, 2008)

WHAT: Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival

WHERE: The elegant 40,000 square foot Steelcase Ballroom inside the DeVos Place, downtown Grand Rapids.

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 21 (2-9pm) | Saturday, Nov. 22 (Noon-10pm) | Sunday, Nov. 23 (Noon-5pm)

WHO: From the connoisseur who lives and breathes for the finer things in life to the novice looking for an introduction to the world of wine, food and other culinary delights, the International Wine & Food Festival in Grand Rapids will deliver a grand experience that is sure to please every palette.

INFO: Over one hundred wineries from around the world will provide samples of their assorted wines. Brewmasters and makers of fine spirits are also expected to be on hand.

Chefs from the area`s top restaurants will prepare and serve samples of their culinary specialties.

Selected restaurants will also be partnered with distinguished wineries for special Pairings – gourmet multi-course meals served on-site in a casual “bar top” setting.

Esteemed individuals from the culinary world – including Joe Borrello of Tasters Guild International and Angus Campbell & Robert Garlough of the Secchia Institute of Culinary Arts – will host seminars, demonstrations and workshops.

Gourmet specialty items and high-end accessories will also be available.

WHY GR: Culinary- and wine-based activities are on the rise throughout the country and West Michigan’s largest city is taking full advantage of this growing lifestyle trend. Grand Rapids sits in the heart of one of the most culturally diverse regions of Michigan and the state-of-the-art DeVos Places sits adjacent to exceptional lodging including the new JW Marriott and the state’s only five-diamond hotel, the Amway Grand Plaza. Fine restaurants and cultural offerings are drawing more downtown to live, work and play.