One thing we missed last year was the annual food event early in the season that introduces some new menu items apart from the everyday dining plan options.

Cedar Point has announced that for 2026 they will be hosting the all-new Barrels & Bites event along the Frontier Trail.

June 5-28 from 4pm till park close (except Tuesdays), guests will be able to partake in sampling some of the region’s finest beer, bourbon and wine along with specialty food pairings created by Cedar Point’s culinary team. Food, craft beer and bourbon enthusiasts will experience the finest flavor profiles as Barrels & Bites showcases the absolute best in the artistry behind every pour and bite. Some of the featured items include:

At Trail Tavern

– Smoked pork belly sliders with picked onions, crispy poblano pepper straws and bleu cheese crema
– Mini crab cakes with apple and habanero slaw
– Chocolate stout mousse cups

At Wild Turnip

– Braised beef short rib ragout with sage butter crispy gnocchi
– Cheesecake bites with honey-roasted fruits

At Fort Sandusky

– Flaming strawberry shortcake
– Honey and herb-brined smoked wings with raspberry chardonnay reduction

At Whistle Stop

– Grilled flatbread pizza topped with sliced smoked chicken breast
– Aged cheeses with chocolate, dried fruits and nuts
– Chocolate-covered strawberries

In addition to a wide variety of hand-crafted tastes, a host of activities and live music will heighten the festive atmosphere for the duration of the event. Guests can enjoy games of cornhole and ring toss, while local artists from Loft at 36 Eleven create handmade custom hats for purchase. The park’s Leather Shop, Rock Shop, Glassblowing Store and wood carver will also highlight limited-edition, hand-crafted items, including Barrels & Bites branded merchandise.

The music of Barrels & Bites sets the tone, and several local performers will provide the soundtrack to match the relaxed, shade-covered ambiance of the Frontier Trail. Guests can enjoy modern folk piano melodies, a guitar and jazz trio and more. Performances rotate throughout the duration of Barrels & Bites.

Access will be included with park admission; however, tasting cards will be required to sample the food & beverages.