Photo courtesy of organizers
Foodies will be taking lots of photos at The Family Reunion.
The Family Reunion returns this year with a new theme — “Folklore: A History of Storytelling” — proving that great food isn’t just tasted, it’s told.
Presented in partnership with Salamander Collection and Food & Wine, the festival features world‑class chefs, meaningful conversations, hands‑on workshops, and unforgettable food experiences that honor heritage, artistry, and community.
The acclaimed culinary festival, created by chef, restaurateur and author Kwame Onwuachi, officially opened ticket sales Friday for 2026. This year’s event will once again take place at the acclaimed Salamander Middleburg in Virginia’s wine country, owned by renowned business leader Sheila Johnson, and continues its mission of celebrating Black and Brown contributions to food, culture and hospitality.
Photo by Justin Kriel for Salamander Resort & Spa
Salamander Resort & Spa
With a program highlighted by some of the industry’s top talent, The Family Reunion will take place August 20-23. Overnight packages and multi-event passes are now available at www.salamanderhotels.com/familyreunion or by calling 844-505-9235.
“Food is one of the most powerful storytelling tools we have,” said Kwame Onwuachi. “Every meal is a chapter, every recipe a record of who we are and where we come from. With this year’s theme, we’re honoring the stories that travel with us – stories that keep our cultures alive.”
Photo courtesy of organizers
Salamander founder and CEO Sheila Johnson with Chef Kwame Onwuachi
Now entering its next chapter as one of the country’s most dynamic culinary gatherings, The Family Reunion will use its 2026 theme to explore the timeless connection between food and storytelling. “Folklore: A History of Storytelling” will celebrate the oral traditions, shared histories, and intergenerational narratives that have shaped cuisines across the African diaspora and influenced global culinary culture. During this consequential year marking America’s Semiquincentennial (250), the multi‑day experience will powerfully spotlight how recipes, rituals, and techniques have been passed down through stories—whether whispered across kitchen counters, shared around fire pits, or carried across borders and generations.
Since it was launched, The Family Reunion has become one of the nation’s premier and most-popular culinary events – quickly selling out with 1,200 people attending each day. It combines thought-provoking panel discussions, topical cooking demonstrations, inspiring recreational activities, and vibrant evening parties. Additionally, all event attendees will receive a copy of Onwuachi’s new book, All Hours: Crazy Good Food for Whatever, Whenever, which publishes in September.
Photo courtesy of organizers
Tickets are on sale now for the event, the sixth year for The Family Reunion in Middleburg.
The mission of The Family Reunion is to nurture, develop and celebrate racial and ethnic diversity within the next generation of hospitality professionals, and for 2026, the event’s charitable partner remains the Culinary Institute of America. Experiences take place throughout Salamander’s 340 acres, including its Culinary Garden and Library. There is also a sweeping outdoor Grand Stage venue hosting a rotating lineup of meals and events.
“Folklore is the foundation of Black culture — it’s how we’ve passed down truth, heritage, and hope. That’s why this year’s Family Reunion at Salamander Middleburg is dedicated to the power of our stories and the people who keep them alive,” said Sheila Johnson, founder and CEO of Salamander Collection.
The confirmed returning talent roster features Virginia Ali, Nyesha Arrington, Kevin Bludso, Tavel Bristol-Joseph, Tiffany Derry, Andre Fowles, Bryan Furman, Dr. Jessica B. Harris, Mawa McQueen, Kwame Onwuachi, Rasheed Philips, Jamila Robinson, Rodney Scott, Alexander Smalls and Melba Wilson. New talent includes Ope Amosu, Paul Carmichael, Tia Clark, Marcus Davis, Benjamin "BJ" Dennis, Chris Gaither and Amethyst Ganaway.
The 2026 Family Reunion enjoys partner support from Salamander Collection, Food & Wine, OpenTable, Toast, Inspire, Select Events, Coca-Cola, AmaWaterways, Visit Loudoun and La Colombe.
For more information, please visit www.salamanderhotels.com/familyreunion.
