Food, drinks, music, and a waterfront view—what could be better? The 4th Annual Taste of Rio is set to take place at Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This popular lakeside event has quickly established itself as one of Montgomery County, Maryland’s favorite fall celebrations, showcasing local restaurants, craft cocktails, live music, and gorgeous waterfront views, making for an enjoyable afternoon filled with delightful food, entertainment, and fun.
Event Details:
- When: Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Where: Rio Lakefront, Gaithersburg, Maryland
- Tickets: Now available (General & VIP options can be selected)
Tickets & VIP Packages
General Admission
Tickets are offered in $5 increments and can be exchanged for food and drink choices throughout the festival. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines, although they can also be acquired on-site at ticketing tents located near Copper Canyon Grill and Charley Chesapeake Chophouse & Bar as well as near the boardwalk stage. (Please note that this is a cashless event; credit card payment is accepted for on-site ticket purchases)
VIP Ticket Package + MoCo Eats VIP Lounge
Elevate your experience at Taste of Rio with the MoCo Eats VIP Package:
- Entry to the indoor MoCo Eats VIP Lounge from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Early admission from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, which includes a complimentary signature welcome cocktail.
- Access to a dedicated VIP ticket line.
- Enjoy live music and a charging station within the lounge.
- Three (3) tasting/drink vouchers.
- A limited edition MoCo Eats souvenir.
A Taste of What’s in Store
One of the joys of attending Taste of Rio is the chance to discover (or rediscover) the fantastic dining options available at Rio Lakefront. Prepare to indulge in an exciting selection of beloved eateries serving up their finest dishes.
Auntie Anne’s & Cinnabon – These classic options provide the ultimate comfort, featuring warm pretzels and delightful cinnamon rolls that are ideal for a snack as you explore the boardwalk.
BurgerFi – If you’re in the mood for a hearty burger, BurgerFi’s all-natural Angus beef patties paired with crispy fries will satisfy any craving.
California Pizza Kitchen – Renowned for its inventive pizzas, including the crowd-pleasing BBQ Chicken Pizza, this restaurant adds a hint of California flair to each bite.
Charley Chesapeake Chophouse & Bar – Indulge in premium steaks, fresh seafood, and sophisticated American cuisine that combines traditional favorites with inspirations from the Chesapeake region.
Dave & Busters – Enjoy classic game night fare such as burgers, wings, and flatbreads while engaging in arcade games and catching sports on big screens for an entertaining outing.
Donut Chew – Experience a delightful twist with Mochi donuts featuring unique flavor combinations and inventive takes on the classic donut. Made from rice flour, these chewy donut creations are famous for their delightful texture.
Fantasticks – Satisfy your sweet tooth with a frozen gelato pop, which can be dipped and topped to your personal preference—offering a treat that’s just as Instagrammable as it is tasty.
Guapo’s Cantina & Grill – Capture the spirit of a fiesta with flavorful fajitas, tacos, and margaritas that deliver a delicious punch.
Han Spot – Warm up with authentic Asian comfort cuisine that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen – Relish genuine Lebanese dishes, featuring everything from traditional hummus and mezze to shawarma, falafel, and grilled specialties, all inspired by the culinary heritage of Beirut.
Kung Fu Tea – Quench your thirst with a variety of bubble teas, milk teas, fruit-infused teas, and slushes, enhanced by an array of exciting flavors and customizable toppings.
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls – This New England-themed seafood restaurant offers hearty lobster rolls with options ranging from the classic Maine style, featuring chilled lobster, mayo, and lemon butter, to innovative creations like the Lobster BLT.
Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen – Experience Southern hospitality through soul food staples, including fried chicken, seafood, and comforting sides that bring a taste of home.
Muse Paintbar – Unleash your creativity at this vibrant paint-and-sip venue, where guided painting sessions are complemented by cocktails, wine, and shareable bites like pizza and pretzel bites.
Nando’s Peri-Peri – Known globally for its flame-grilled chicken and zesty peri-peri sauce, this establishment introduces bold international flavors to Gaithersburg.
True Food Kitchen – Offering fresh, seasonal, and flavor-packed meals, this health-oriented gem shows that nutritious food can be both delicious and satisfying.
Yard House – With a vast selection of draft beers and globally inspired dishes, Yard House emerges as a premier gathering spot for food enthusiasts and beer lovers alike.
With an array of comfort foods, international flavors, sweet indulgences, and lakeside dining experiences, Taste of Rio offers a fantastic chance to sample some of the top restaurants along the lakefront, all in an enjoyable afternoon.
Make a Day of It at Rio Lakefront
One of the highlights of Taste of Rio is that it extends beyond being just a food festival; it allows attendees to enjoy a full day of experiences at Rio Lakefront, which stands as one of Gaithersburg’s leading shopping, dining, and entertainment hubs. Before or after savoring the delightful offerings of the festival, be sure to check out these entertaining activities around the lake:
- Enjoy a paddleboat ride to take in a unique perspective of the stunning lakefront.
- Shop and wander through an eclectic mix of stores, local boutiques, and specialty shops.
- Catch the latest films at AMC Rio Cinemas 18.
- Get crafty at Muse Paintbar, where you can create your own artistic masterpiece.
- Experience family-friendly fun on the carousel, visit the playground, or relax in the lush green areas alongside the lake.
- Challenge yourself at the Red Door Escape Room, where camaraderie and problem-solving skills come into play as you solve puzzles in themed escape rooms.
Why You’ll Love It
The Taste of Rio festival is a fantastic way to spend a pleasant afternoon enjoying one of the most picturesque waterfront venues in Montgomery County while sampling delicious offerings from local eateries. With captivating live music, scenic lakeside surroundings, shopping experiences, and an abundance of culinary delights to explore, it’s an ideal way to delight in a leisurely afternoon in Gaithersburg.
