Supporting the Rebuilding

Written By: Marlene Osteen | Issue: November 2024

When the Highlands Food & Wine Festival returns for its 8th year from November 7-10, bringing together celebrated chefs, top vintners, and talented musicians, it will take on a deeper meaning.

This year, the festival is about more than indulgence – it’s about giving back. As Western North Carolina continues to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, the festival is stepping up to support relief efforts in a major way.

The highlight of this charitable mission is the festival final event. A Shot at Redemption brunch offers attendees a unique chance to help make a difference.

On Sunday, November 10, $125 from every ticket sold to the brunch will be donated to local and regional nonprofits leading recovery efforts, including BeLoved Asheville, Equal Plates Project, Highlands Emergency Council, Highlands Food Pantry, and Southern Smoke Foundation.

“Highlands Food & Wine has always been about giving back to the community and bringing people together, and this year – with so much help needed – our message will focus on gratitude and supporting our friends and neighbors,” said Highlands Festival Inc. Board Member David Bock. “It has been heartbreaking to see what our fans, patrons, chefs, musicians, and beverage partners throughout Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina have endured in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Our hope is by providing this opportunity to help fund recovery efforts and resources we can bring meaningful support to the communities in need.”

Shot at Redemption: Support All Rebuilding is not only a beloved part of the festival but also a symbol of the community spirit that drives Highlands Festivals Inc.

Guests can enjoy a world-class culinary experience while supporting those in need. Featuring dishes from regional chefs such as Massimiliano Proietti of Paoletti’s, Derick Wade of The Darling Oyster Bar, and Jason Tardo of Half Mile Farm, this brunch pairs incredible food with the festival’s renowned Tito’s Bloody Mary bar.

To top it off, live music from soul singer Abraham Alexander and the legendary Lee Fields & The Expressions will provide a soulful, uplifting atmosphere for this meaningful gathering.

While Shot at Redemption: Support All Rebuilding marks the festival’s culmination, the entire weekend promises a rich array of experiences. See page 16 for details on the entire weekend.

Not only does this closing event offer the chance to savor exceptional cuisine and enjoy live music, but it also gives attendees the opportunity to contribute directly to disaster relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene. For those unable to attend, donations can also be made through the festival’s website, with 100 percent of proceeds going to the nonprofits working on the ground.

Highlands Food & Wine is not just a celebration of culinary and musical talent – it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and giving back.

With individual tickets to A Shot at Redemption and Truckin’ still available, and VIP weekend passes offering access to the entire weekend, now is the time to be part of this incredible event and make a meaningful impact.

For tickets and more information, visit highlandsfoodandwine.com.