Expanding to three days in its third year, JXNFW 2026 will take place on March 20–22, 2026. The festival weekend will feature Chef Chair Nick Wallace alongside an impressive lineup of 25+ chefs from Jackson, the region and beyond. The weekend will include a series of intimate dining experiences, with the festival's signature tastings, cooking demonstrations and live music expanding across two days.

"The Local Palate is excited to bring JXN Food & Wine back for its third year with this expanded format," said Amanda Fitzgerald, Director of Sales & Marketing for The Local Palate. "Adding a third day allows us to create even more opportunities for food lovers to experience the incredible culinary talent in Jackson and beyond."

The festival kicks off Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m. with the Friday Feast, an exclusive multi-course dinner with beverage pairings hosted by Chef Chair Nick Wallace and James Beard Finalist Chef Hunter Evans. Tickets are $165 per person.

Saturday, March 21, doors open at 5 p.m. for VIP ticket holders and 6 p.m. for General Admission, with the event concluding at 9 p.m. VIP tickets are $175; General Admission is $95. Limited early bird pricing is available through October 8 only at $160 for VIP and $80 for GA.

NEW for 2026: The festival expands with a Sunday event on March 22. Doors open at 2 p.m. for VIP ticket holders and 3 p.m. for General Admission, ending at 6 p.m. Sunday VIP tickets are $175; General Admission is $95.

Limited early bird pricing is available for both days through October 8.

Both Saturday and Sunday will feature tastings from 25+ acclaimed chefs, cooking demonstrations from Top Chefs and Chef Chair Nick Wallace, and a live DJ.

"JXN Food & Wine Festival continues to be a signature event that draws food enthusiasts from across the region to experience Jackson's thriving culinary scene," said Jonathan Pettus, Visit Jackson's Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer. "The expansion to three days is a testament to the festival's success and the incredible talent we have in our community."

Tickets go on sale Wednesday, October 1, at noon at jxnfoodandwine.com.

Food enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the website jxnfoodandwine.com and follow on Instagram @jxnfoodandwine to keep abreast of chef announcements and festival updates.

The Westin Jackson is offering a special rate for attendees. Early bird special attendee rate are available through January 15, 2026, at $179 + taxes per night. Rates after go up to $199 + taxes per night.

The JXN Food & Wine Festival is a key event for Jackson, designed to attract visitors and showcase the local food scene.

"The JXN Food & Wine Festival is a cornerstone event for our city, attracting visitors from across the country and showcasing Jackson's distinct culinary community," said Jonathan Pettus, Visit Jackson's Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer. "We are proud to support this festival and to highlight the talented chefs and restaurants in our community."

Updates and additional information about the festival, including new chef additions to the lineup, can be found on the festival's website and Instagram page.