Charleston Wine + Food Festival

Visitors to Charleston's barrier Islands of Kiawah, Seabrook, Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island typically spend 2 full days of a week-long visit in historic Charleston, SC. The reasons are many - history, architecture, antiques and haute couture boutiques. The top reason to spend time in historic Charleston, SC? No surprise - the food! Charleston's cuisine hearkens from a French Heritage as a large percentage of her first inhabitants were of French Huguenot descent. The original inhabitants were wealthy and wanted fame, fortune and plenty of their fine French cuisine. Then, the 'war-between-the-states' and its aftermath changed things a bit to include a financial need to take advantage of the basic bounty of the lowcountry - seafood, fresh vegetables and more. The results is a delectable cuisine that today marries these historic influences. Charleston is said to boast 'more fine dining, per capita, than any city in America'. Hence, you will not want to miss the annual Charleston Food + Wine Festival, March 4 - 7th, 2010. The Festival's mission is 'to enhance Charleston's culinary reputation and support important charitable endeavors by focusing national attention on the entertainment, education and gastronomical gratification opportunities presented by world-class culinary professionals and wine experts.' Sounds good! Mmmmm. There are many interesting exhibitors such as Slow Food Charleston. This non-profit organization has over 83,000 members internationally that advocate for good, clean and fair food. They push for high quality of taste, environmental sustainability and social justice. During its 3 days the Events of the Food + Wine Festival take place in wonderful restaurants and venues all over Charleston. The Events go on throughout the day, so you can pick your time. Your taste buds won't be sorry!