Food, drinks, music, and a waterfront view—what could be better? The 4th Annual Taste of Rio returns to Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This lakeside celebration has quickly become one of Montgomery County, Maryland’s popular fall events, bringing together local restaurants, craft cocktails, live entertainment, and waterfront views for an afternoon full of great food, music, and fun.
Event Details:
- When: Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Where: Rio Lakefront, Gaithersburg, Maryland
- Tickets: On sale now (General & VIP options available)
Tickets & VIP Packages
General Admission
Tickets are sold in $5 increments and can be redeemed for food and beverage selections throughout the festival. Purchase tickets in advance to skip the lines, or buy them on-site at ticketing tents near Copper Canyon Grill and Charley Chesapeake Chophouse & Bar. (Credit card are preferred; Cash, Venmo, and PayPal also accepted.)
VIP Ticket Package + MoCo Eats VIP Lounge
Take your festival experience up a notch with the VIP package, which includes:
- Three (3) tasting/drink tickets
- A limited-edition RIO insulated tumbler
- An exclusive MoCo Eats gift from Visit Montgomery
- Access to the MoCo Eats VIP Lounge from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Early entry from 1:00–2:00 p.m. including a complimentary signature cocktail and tasting
- Dedicated VIP ticket line
- An in-lounge charging station
A Taste of What’s in Store
Part of the excitement of Taste of Rio is discovering (or rediscovering!) the incredible restaurants and eateries that call Rio Lakefront home. Get ready to explore a delicious lineup of local favorites serving up some of their best bites.
Auntie Anne’s & Cinnabon – Nothing says comfort like warm pretzels and cinnamon rolls—perfect for a sweet (or salty) pick-me-up as you stroll the boardwalk.
BurgerFi – Craving a juicy burger? BurgerFi’s all-natural Angus beef patties and crispy fries will hit the spot.
California Pizza Kitchen – Known for their creative pizzas (don’t miss the BBQ Chicken Pizza), this spot brings a taste of California flair to every bite.
Charley Chesapeake Chophouse & Bar – Treat yourself to premium steaks, fresh seafood, and elevated American cuisine that blends classic flavors with Chesapeake-inspired favorites.
Donut Chew – A bakery that serves up Mochi donuts with unique flavors and special spins on a regular donut. Made with rice flour, these chewy, mochi-style donuts are known for their delightfully bouncy texture.
Fantasticks – Cool off with a frozen gelato pop dipped and topped just the way you like—
these customizable treats are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
Guapo’s Cantina & Grill – Bring the fiesta to the lakefront with sizzling fajitas, tacos, and margaritas bursting with flavor.
Han Spot – Warm up with authentic Asian comfort food that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Nando’s Peri-Peri – Famous worldwide for its flame-grilled chicken and zesty peri-peri sauce, this stop brings bold global flavor to Gaithersburg.
Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen – Southern hospitality meets soul food classics—think fried chicken, seafood, and hearty sides that taste like home.
Silver Diner – A local favorite, Silver Diner puts a fresh, locally sourced spin on classic comfort food dishes.
True Food Kitchen – Fresh, seasonal, and packed with flavor—this health-conscious favorite proves good-for-you food can taste amazing.
Yard House – With one of the largest selections of draft beer plus globally inspired bites, Yard House is the ultimate hangout spot for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Whether you’re craving comfort food, global flavors, sweet treats, or waterfront dining, Taste of Rio is the perfect opportunity to sample some of the lakefront’s best restaurants, all in one delicious afternoon.
Make a Day of It at Rio Lakefront
The best part about Taste of Rio? It’s more than just a food festival—it’s an opportunity to spend the day enjoying everything Rio Lakefront, one of Gaithersburg’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations, has to offer. Before or after you eat your way through the festival, explore these fun activities around the lake:
- Take a paddleboat ride across the water for a unique view of the lakefront.
- Shop and stroll through Rio’s mix of stores, local boutiques, specialty shops.
- Catch the latest blockbuster at AMC Rio Cinemas 18.
- Get creative at Muse Paintbar, where you can paint your own masterpiece with a glass in hand.
- Enjoy family-friendly fun on the carousel, explore the playground, or unwind in the green spaces besides the lake.
- Put your problem-solving skills to the test at the Red Door Escape Room, where you and your friends can work together to solve puzzles and escape themed rooms.
Why You’ll Love It
Taste of Rio is the perfect way to spend an afternoon enjoying one of Montgomery County’s most scenic waterfront destinations while sampling delicious dishes from local favorites. With live music, lakeside views, shopping, and plenty of food to explore, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon in Gaithersburg.
