At a Glance
- The Big Sur Foragers Festival returns Jan. 22-25, 2026.
- Chefs compete in the Fungus Face-Off, creating forage-inspired dishes.
- Experts will showcase wild mushrooms and discuss identification, medicine, and cuisine.
- Why it matters: It offers a unique culinary experience for food lovers and foragers alike.
The Big Sur Foragers Festival, a celebrated event for mushroom enthusiasts, is back this winter. Chefs will battle in the Fungus Face-Off, while experts showcase wild mushrooms and discuss their uses.
Festival Highlights
The centerpiece, the Fungus Face-Off, features chefs creating dishes from locally foraged mushrooms. Attendance is limited, so seats must be purchased in advance. The festival also includes guided walks and talks on mushroom identification and culinary applications.
What to Expect
Attendees can look forward to:
- Guided foraging walks in Big Sur’s spray-swept forests
- Expert talks on medicinal and culinary uses of wild mushrooms
- Limited-seat cooking competitions with live judging
Key Takeaways
- Festival dates: Jan. 22-25, 2026
- Fungus Face-Off: chefs compete with forage-inspired dishes
- Expert sessions cover identification, medicine, and cuisine
The festival promises a rare blend of culinary artistry and natural exploration, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in fungi and food.
