The Martha’s Vineyard Food and Wine festival returns next week for its 12th year, beginning Wednesday Oct. 23 and running through Sunday Oct. 27.

Sam Sifton, food editor and columnist for The New York Times, will take the stage at 2 p.m. on Oct. 24 as part of a long weekend of culinary events known as the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival.

The Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival kicked off Wednesday evening with a packed event called Fresh Off the Farm.

Chefs and vintners from across the Island and the world will showcase their creations next week during the 11th annual Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival.

The Martha's Vineyard Food and Wine Festival begins Thursday, Oct. 19 and includes more than 20 events, nearly double the number of last year.

Sam Decker is the sommelier and beverage director at Atria in Edgartown, and one of three wine personalities to face off Oct. 17 at the Sommelier Throw Down!