February is for Foodies

Walla Walla's month-long celebration

If you're a party animal when it comes to food and beverage, Walla Walla needs to be your February destination. Now in its sixth year, February is for Foodies (#F4F2018) features prix-fixe menus at top local restaurants, food, wine, and chocolate pairings, guest chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, special lodging discounts, and more.

Some of the highlights this year include prix fixe menus at some of Walla Walla's finest restaurants (Whitehouse-Crawford, The Vineyard Lounge at the Marcus Whitman Hotel),  pairing events at distinguished wineries like L'Ecole No. 41, Castillo de Feliciana, Saviah Cellars and more, and a special Sweetheart's Package from the historic Marcus Whitman Hotel.

This year includes a focus on family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. What better way to work up an appetite then a day spent on the slopes at Ski Bluewood, or snowshoeing in the Blue Mountains?

One of the most fertile agricultural areas in the U.S., the Walla Walla area produces wheat, asparagus, strawberries and, of course, Walla Walla sweet onions, our state's official vegetable. Enjoying the bounty in the area it comes from makes every bite more delicious. Since Gary Figgins planted grape vines in 1974 and opened Leonetti Cellar in 1977, the wine industry has taken off with more than 120 wineries in the area now, the highest concentration of wineries in Washington. Anyone who loves wine can attest to the enjoyment of savoring it at the vineyard where it was grown and made, or at a cozy tasting room. Learning about a wine from the winemaker is an incredible bonus. In addition, there are cheesemakers and chocolatiers adding to the mix.

One of the joys of an event like this is the opportunity to get to know the city and its people a little better. By the time you've spent several days eating at various restaurants; joining in classes held in different venues; and talking with multiple winemakers, chefs, and locals, you'll feel part of the community, and be drawn to return a little more often.

Photo: Olive Marketplace Cafe panna

While not connected to February is for Foodies, you should take advantage of the Alaska Airlines Taste and Tote program. Mileage plan members can check their first case of wine for free from Walla Walla, Tri-Cities/Pasco, or Yakima airports. Taste, buy, and ship!

And don't forget that this is February, month of love. Valentine's Day is on Wednesday this year. What better gift than to take your favorite foodie to Walla Walla?

New events and specials continue to be added daily. Keep checking the February is for Foodies page on the Visit Walla Walla website to stay up to date on what is happening in Walla Walla during February is for Foodies!

 Connie Adams/January 2018