BB&T Charleston Food + Wine Festival Has Been Selected as One of the Southeast’s Top 20 Events

The third annual BB&T Charleston Food + Wine Festival, scheduled for February 28-March 2, 2008, has been recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the Top 20 Events for the month of February 2008. To be considered for nomination the event had to be in at least their third year and have an attendance of at least 1,000. The winners receive recognition in over 800 newspapers, magazines, radio & television stations including The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the New Orleans-based radio show “Travel Talk Radio”.

Events were judged on their unique aspect, economic impact to the community, community involvement, attendance, and other awards that the event has won. The BB&T Charleston Food + Wine Festival was held from March 2-5, 2007 was commended for highlighting Charleston as a culinary destination. During the four days, the Festival attracted more than 14,000 visitors for various culinary and wine events. The total ticket sales exceeded $462K with an estimated $20K going to charitable donations and local culinary scholarships throughout the year.

The BB&T Charleston Food + Wine Festival is set to combine the city’s best culinary experiences into one spectacular weekend, February 28-March 2, 2008. A food and wine event like no other, the Festival provides guests the opportunity to meet and get a taste of some of the country’s best chefs, authors and wine professionals. Guests can educate their palates with Southern cuisine and the Lowcountry’s unique food styles, heritage and recipes at one of the 50+ events throughout the weekend. Highlights include the Celebration of Charleston Chefs Opening Night Party, the Restaurant Dine-Around, Bubbles & Sweets, the King Street Sip & Stroll, the Lowcountry Gospel Brunch and the BBQ, Blues, & Brew. An expanded Culinary Village takes over Marion Square Park in downtown Charleston with two Grand Tasting Tents, a Culinary Competitions, Cooking Demonstrations, Chef Tastings and more.

For information, visit www.charlestonfoodandwine.com or call 843.722.5547. Tickets on Sale Now!