MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – One of Mississippi’s most anticipated culinary and cultural events, Sipp & Savor, returned to the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX) on Saturday, April 11, 2026—delivering an unforgettable evening that brought together food lovers, artists, and community members from across the Southeast.
Recognized in 2025 by both the Mississippi Tourism Association and the Mississippi Main Street Association, the annual festival once again transformed the Citizens National Bank Courtyard and surrounding downtown Meridian streets into a vibrant hub of tastings, entertainment, and cultural connection.
This year’s event featured an impressive lineup of celebrated chefs, brewers, and distillers from across the region, including talent from City Grocery (Oxford), Elvie’s (Jackson), Hog & Hominy (Memphis), Mister Mao (New Orleans), Pulito Osteria (Jackson), and Vestige (Ocean Springs). Altogether, the participating culinary professionals brought with them nine Michelin nods and a combined 15 James Beard awards and nominations—offering guests an elevated and diverse tasting experience.
Headlining the evening was Chef Alon Shaya, the two-time James Beard Award winner and former Top Chef judge, known for his Michelin-recognized New Orleans restaurant, Saba. His presence added a national spotlight to an already exceptional event.
“We’re so excited to participate in this year’s Sipp & Savor alongside such an incredible lineup of chefs, brewers, and mixologists from all across the South,” said Shaya. “It’s truly a privilege to headline an event that supports and uplifts the South’s artistic and culinary legacy.”
Beyond the food and drink, Sipp & Savor continues to play a vital role in supporting The MAX’s educational mission and year-round programming, reinforcing its impact on the local arts and cultural community.
The event was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including Signature Sponsor Mitchell Distributing; Sapphire Sponsors Coastal Television, Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and WTOK-TV; Diamond Sponsors Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center, Nerves & Bones Inc., Structural Steel Services Inc., and Tito’s Handmade Vodka; Platinum Sponsors Hyundai, Toyota, Honda and Chevrolet of Meridian, and Meridian Orthopedic Specialists; and Gold Sponsors Glass Inc., Magnolia Steel Co Inc., Waters International, and Yates Construction.
Sipp & Savor 2026 once again showcased the best of Southern culinary excellence while celebrating the culture, creativity, and community that define Meridian. Organizers and attendees alike are already looking ahead to what next year’s event will bring.
