11th Annual SF Cheese Fest: Unlimited Tastes on Treasure Island — Oct 3, 2026

# What this event is

Saturday, October 3, 2026. The event runs 6:00–9:00 PM at Gold Bar Distillery on Treasure Island (1 Avenue of the Palms, San Francisco). It's a tasting-focused evening that highlights California artisan cheesemakers alongside winemakers, craft brewers, chefs, and food artisans.

# What you'll find there

The festival centers on unlimited cheese tastings for ticket holders. Participating producers represent California's artisan cheese scene, and the program also includes beverage partners—wineries and craft breweries—for pairing and sampling. The Grazing Company supplies an endless Grazing Table that attendees can visit throughout the night.

Gold Bar Distillery will provide complimentary mocktails. Signature cocktails are offered for purchase at the venue.

VIP ticket holders receive two clear extras: early access to the cheesemaker celebration before doors open to the public, and an exclusive whiskey-and-cheese pairing experience. The VIP pairing is positioned as a small-group or limited-capacity offering to complement the general tastings.

# Tickets and admission

The published general admission price is $98, which explicitly includes unlimited cheese tasting all evening. The event page lists VIP as a separate option with early entry and the whiskey-cheese pairing. If you plan to attend with a group or want the VIP experience, book early since VIP features are limited.

# Venue and logistics

Location: Gold Bar Distillery, Treasure Island, 1 Avenue of the Palms, San Francisco. The site offers views of the Bay and operates as the festival venue for this edition.

Timing: Arrive early if you have VIP access to maximize the exclusive pairing and early tastings. For general admission, plan for a 6:00 PM start and a 9:00 PM end. The festival is ticketed and adults-only in its categories, so expect ID checks and 21+ policies where applicable.

# Practical tips for attendees

• Bring a form of ID and your ticket confirmation (digital or printed).

• Pace tasting sessions—unlimited tasting can add up quickly. Use water and the grazing table between samples.
• If you want cocktails, bring payment method for on-site purchases.
• If you care about accessibility or specific dietary restrictions, contact the venue or organizer ahead of time.

# Confirm details before you go

Event listings note that details can change after posting. Confirm time, ticket availability, and any age or health policies directly with the event organizer or ticket vendor before traveling.

# Who this is for

People who enjoy artisan cheese and local beverage pairings, food-focused social nights, and curated tasting events. The format is suited to attendees who want to sample many producers in one evening and those who prefer a VIP tasting experience with a focused pairing component.