What to Expect at the California Grand Tasting
September in downtown Sacramento is one of my favorite times of year. The sun is still hanging around past 7:30 PM, the days are warm, and the evenings are cool giving us a glimpse of fall, and it’s the perfect excuse to stay out a little longer with your friends.
If you’re like me and always looking for a good excuse to eat and drink your way through downtown, Visit Sacramento has something grand coming up. New this year, bringing together two of their iconic culinary events, Legends of Wine and The Grand Tasting, is their all-new signature experience: The California Grand Tasting on Friday, September 11 in downtown.
Get a Taste of California
The California Grand Tasting is bringing together some of the best flavors of California for one evening. More than 30 restaurants will be serving up culinary creations from some of the region’s top chefs and culinary talent alongside 25–30 regional wineries and craft beverage producers, with live entertainment happening throughout the event.
The Perfect Pairing
Visit Sacramento’s new event brings together the best parts of two former signature events. The Grand Tasting gave everyone a chance to experience locally sourced dishes crafted by some of the region’s top chefs featured at the popular Tower Bridge Dinner. Legends of Wine, on the other hand, brought wines from across California right to your fingertips.
Now, those two experiences are coming together under one roof. The result is a night that gives foodies plenty to explore while wine lovers get to sip their way through California. Basically, a foodie’s dream paired with a wine connoisseur’s happy place.
When: Friday, September 11, 2026 | 6 – 9 PM
Where: Ballroom A at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. Nearest entry is located at the West Lobby (13th and K Streets) and escalators or elevators lead to the Ballroom Level.
How to Get Around: Parking is available at several garages and lots within walking distance of the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. Visit SacPark.org to reserve parking ahead of time. Don’t want to drive? Here are the best alternative ways to get around in downtown.
Visit Sacramento’s FAQ’s to learn more.
Lucky for You, Good Food is in Downtown Year Round
Here are five downtown restaurants participating in this year’s California Grand Tasting. Check out what’s being served at the event, then keep them on your list for your next dinner in downtown.
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