WINEFEST 2027 DATES & THEME COMING SOON

“CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER!” 

For more than two decades, Tampa Theatre’s signature fundraiser WineFest has become curiouser and curiouser, commemorating some of most the important moments in cinematic history with themes like The Vineyard of Oz, Caskablanca, and The Grapest Showman. This year, though, the majestic movie palace celebrates not one movie, but goes down the rabbit hole of a delightfully deep, multi-movie tradition with Alice and her friends in Winederland – presented by SouthEast Personnel Leasing – on March 6 and 7, 2026.

And though the theme may seem as mad as a hatter, WineFest’s purpose is as charming as the Cheshire Cat: as the organization’s biggest annual fundraiser, WineFest has raised more than $2 million over the past 22 years for the non-profit Theatre.

“I wish we could just nibble a cake labeled ‘eat me’ and magically grow Tampa Theatre’s resources.” says event chair and WineFest Queen of Hearts Anna Molina. “Instead, we are running around like the White Rabbit encouraging our patrons to support Tampa Theatre’s artistic, educational and community programming, plus the preservation of this landmark building ahead of its 100^th birthday (and countless unbirthdays) in 2026. It’s never too late, but WineFest is a very important date to make a difference.”

WineFest guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite character or come in a Wonderland-inspired costume. Attendance is restricted to those aged 21 and older.

WINEFEST WEEKEND AT A GLANCE

• On Friday, March 6, it’s “off with their corks!” for a two-tiered Wine Tasting – presented by Amalie Oil Co. Guests are invited to explore the historic 1926 landmark while sampling boutique wines from around the world and enjoying tempting bites from Tampa’s top independent restaurants. View the Restaurant & Winery Guide below to plan your evening.

• • The Premium Tasting starts at 7:00 pm and features exclusive wines for a limited audience. Tickets are $130 ($120 for Tampa Theatre Members) PREMIUM TASTING (7PM ENTRY) IS SOLD OUT
  • Grand Tasting ticket holders gain entry at 8:00 pm, and tickets are $80 ($70 for Members)
    
  • Best Dressed Contest – Guests are invited to show off their best whimsy for a chance to win a Tampa Theatre prize pack. Hopefuls can register and have their photo taken by staff in the Taylor Screening Room during the Wine Tasting Event on Friday, March 6 starting at 7:00pm; remember the quicker you enter the contest the more chances you have to win! View full rules and information
  • A little something to remember us by; specialty Tampa Theatre Merch will be available in the Taylor Screening Room.
  • Silent Auction – Bid on premium silent auction items representing Bay-area retailers, restaurants, services, and attractions. Bidding on the online auction is open to the general public as well as all event attendees; an event ticket is not required to participate in the silent auction.
    

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• On Saturday, March 7, the Theatre’s Historic Duncan Auditorium transforms into a Tweedledee-mented dining hall for the elegant Wine Pairing – presented by Quality Carriers – from 6:00-10:00 pm. The multi-course menu, created through a collaboration between Mise en Place and Metropolitan Ministries’ Culinary and Hospitality teams, will feature delectable small plates expertly paired with exquisite wines.  Tickets are $500. WINE PAIRING IS NOW SOLD OUT

• • The Live Auction includes once-in-a-lifetime trips, exclusive experiences, and a high-stakes Wine Pull.
  • Each card is a chance to win big during the annual Card Game for a chance to win your choice of any live auction item.
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• Activities available over both nights of WineFest Weekend:
  • 360 Photo Experience – This fun and unique photobooth is returning this year for both nights of WineFest. Sponsored by Etix.
  • We’re setting the mood with Live Music Performances each evening in the courtyard. Sponsored by Symphonic.
  • The Super Silent Auction returns this year with select items that will remain open for an extra day giving you even more chances to win that coveted prize.

Participating Restaurants & Winery List:

RESTAURANTS:

• Babycakes Cupcakes
• Bavaro’s
• The Bougie Palate Catering
• Chill Bros.
• Donovan’s Meatery
• Flan Factory
• Flor Fina
• Gen X Tavern
• Mad Dogs & Englishmen
• Oxford Exchange
• Palmette Brasserie and Bar
• Royal Diaspora Coffee
• Top Shelf Sports Bar

WINERIES:

• Breakthru Beverage
• Chateau Cellars
• Cru Cellars
• Hattricks
• House of Smith
• Justin Wines
• Keel & Curley
• Michael David Winery
• Polar Seltzer
• Redneck Wine Co.
• Southern Brewing
• Time for Wine

Are you or your organization interested in sponsoring WineFest 2026?

Reach out to our Development & Donor Relations team for more information on Wine Tasting and Wine Pairing sponsorship opportunities by emailing Lea Van Name, Associate Director of Development at Lea@tampatheatre.org

Past WineFest Weekends