Southbound Food Festival

Early bird tickets are on sale for Southbound Food Festival, Birmingham’s premier celebration of Southern food, culture and community, for select signature events during the 2026 festival, scheduled for Sept. 18-27. Festival organizers encourage guests to purchase tickets early, as several events are expected to sell out. 

Now entering its fourth year, Southbound has become one of the region’s most anticipated culinary events, bringing together acclaimed chefs, pitmasters, mixologists, artisans, musicians and storytellers for 10 days of immersive experiences celebrating the South’s rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage. The talent lineup will be available on their website June 1, including local and regional James Beard nominees, television personalities and other acclaimed culinary talent. Additional talent will be announced as confirmed. 

“Southbound has grown into a festival that not only celebrates great food, but also showcases Birmingham’s creativity, hospitality and sense of community,” said Cathy Sloss Jones, board president of Southbound Food Festival. “We’re excited to open Early Bird ticket sales and invite guests to secure their seats at some of our most sought-after events before they sell out.”

Since its launch, Southbound has helped position Birmingham as a nationally recognized culinary destination while generating economic impact for local restaurants, hospitality businesses and cultural organizations.

A limited number of early bird tickets are available while they last or until July 1. Once sold out, regular ticket pricing will go into effect. 

For tickets, event details and festival updates, visit their website.