FAQs
General
What Is the BayHaven Wine & Food Festival?
The BayHaven Food & Wine Festival is a five-day celebration of Black Foodways, aimed at raising awareness of Black culinary experts and creating opportunities for newcomers in the hospitality industry. This year’s festival will have the theme of “Homecoming,” drawing inspiration from the rich culture and traditions of historically Black colleges and universities.
When Is the Festival?
Friday, Oct. 3 - Sunday, Oct. 6, 2023
Where Will the Festival Take Place?
All of the events will be held at Savona Mill in Historic West Charlotte
Why Is the Festival Being Held in Charlotte?
Charlotte is the perfect melting pot city, and it’s in close proximity to a lot of amazing chefs. We are excited for the energy of the city and Charlotte to be experienced by festival goers.
Where Can I Find the Schedule of Events for The Festival?
Full schedule details are available here.
Is There an Age Requirement to Attend the Festival?
Yes, all events are for 21+
Where Can I Find the Most Up-To-Date Information About the Festival?
At www.bayhavenfoodandwine.com and by following us on Instagram.
Tickets
When can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available on our website.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online only now through noon through Sept. 15, 2024. (while supplies last).
How much do the tickets cost?
Tickets to various festival events, including ticket packages and individual events, range from $65-$352.75.
What ticket should I buy?
Separate tickets are available for each event, but for the best value, we encourage you to select The Brady Brunch Package. The Everything Is A Star event will be the festival’s main tasting experience.
What is included in the ticket price for events?
The cost of admission to the event plus taxes and service fees.
Can I buy tickets on-site during the festival?
Tickets for the festival can be purchased on the day of or until they sell out.
What is the refund policy?
No refunds or discounts are available. The festival is a rain or shine event.
What is the process for receiving my ticket once purchased?
An email confirmation will be emailed to you after you successfully purchase it.
How do I locate my ticket?
Access it from your confirmation email.
Can you scan a digital ticket from my phone on-site?
Yes, it is encouraged that you use a digital ticket.
Is there a Will Call for ticket pickup?
No, all tickets will be available digitally.
Are tickets transferable?
No, tickets cannot be transferred.
Who do I contact if I am having issues with my ticket order or accessing my tickets?
You can email bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com for assistance.
Event Logistics
Is there a cut-off time for entry to the festival events?
The seated dinners will take place during set times and you should arrive on time or early to avoid missing any parts of the events. Guests will not be admitted 30 minutes after seated dinners begin. For all other events during the festival weekend, we suggest arriving no later than 30 minutes to an hour before the event ends. See the schedule of events for more information.
Is there a last-call time for the festival events?
No, but we will stop serving food and beverage at the scheduled event end time.
What is the re-entry policy? Can I leave and come back?
Your ticket (digital or printed) will be scanned and you will receive a wristband for each event that will allow re-entry.
What do I do if I lose my wristband/lanyard?
We will have a master list and can get you a new one with a valid ID.
What happens in the event of inclement weather?
This is a rain or shine event. If there is inclement weather, we will follow safety guidelines and communicate any changes to ticket purchasers. There will be no refunds due to weather.
Is there a bag policy for the festival?
No large bags will be permitted such as backpacks, suitcases or duffle bags. Purses or small bags will be permitted.
What items are NOT permitted at the festival?
Pets, outside food/beverages, weapons/firearms, coolers, chairs, anyone under 21 years of age.
Can I bring my professional camera or video equipment?
No, unless you have been approved prior to the event. Email bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com for more information.
Is there a dress code for the event? What attire is recommended?
We’d love to see guests dressed to represent their alma mater, bring your letters and dress your best!
Who do I contact if I need special assistance or accommodations?
Please email bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com for special accommodation questions.
Are the on-site bathrooms?
Yes, bathrooms are available.
Food Events
What chefs and other culinary talents are participating in the festival?
Find the culinary talent lineup here.
Is there a way to see what food will be served at the events prior to the festival?
No, but you are welcome to look at the list of talented chefs that are participating in the event to get an idea of their culinary styles. Find the culinary talent lineup here.
What do I do if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Please let all tasting tents you visit know your allergy before you consume as we do not assume any responsibility for allergic reactions.
Will there be options or modifications available for vegans, vegetarians and/or pescatarians?
While modifications will not be made specifically, most festival events will feature some vegan, vegetarian or pescatarian dishes; however, this may mean a smaller quantity of food will be available for those with these specific food preferences.
Am I expected to tip at the food events?
No, but thank you for asking.
How is the festival addressing potential food waste and sustainability?
We will be donating wasted food to local farmers for compost.
Will the festival recycle?
Yes
Culinary Talent & Vendors
As a member of the Black culinary community, how can I get involved with the festival?
We have had an amazing response and are not accepting additional talent for this year, but we will certainly add your name to our list for future events. Culinary talent interested in participating in the future may submit an interest form here. If you have additional questions, please email bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com.
How can my food truck be involved in the festival?
Fill out our vendor/food truck interest form here. Email @bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com with any additional questions.
How can my business register as a vendor at the festival?
Fill out our vendor/food truck interest form here. Email @bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com with any additional questions.
What types of businesses can be a vendor at the festival?
Any Black-owned business, but we are specifically interested in body products, jewelry, butters, candles, and other arts, crafts and accessories.
Volunteering
How Can I Be a Volunteer?
We’ll be sharing details on how/when/where to volunteer soon.
Fill out our volunteer application, here
Other
Who Should I Contact About Press Inquiries?
Rachel Sutherland, director of communications for the bay haven food & wine festival, at info@rachelsutherland.net.
Who Can I Contact if My Question Is Not Answered Here?
Subrina Collier, Founder - Bayhavenbusiness@gmail.com
Sponsorship
How can I become a sponsor?
View sponsorship opportunities here
What sponsorship opportunities are available?
We have various sponsorship opportunities available from serving as a title sponsor to underwriting technology or a bar setup as well as custom sponsorships. It’s important to us to build meaningful partnerships that are mutually beneficial and that support our mission.