Welcome
To an elevaT ion celebraT ion
If you’re new to the celebration, you can expect a cascade of deeply satisfying experiences, served up with pride and an enduring sense of playfulness.
The tradition of welcoming visitors to the Plateau with food and good times goes back a long, long time.
The first residents here, the Cherokee people, had a tradition of perpetual fires blazing at the center of their settlements. These were the focal points of their celebrations and ceremonies—everyone was invited to feast and revel.
The good times continued with the establishment of Highlands in 1875. Billed as a health resort and getaway from the stresses of the “world off The Plateau,” Highlands quickly attracted waves of men and women searching for a better way of life.
Our first businesses were The Central House (now Old Edwards Inn) and The Highlands Inn, which catered to offPlateau guests and travelers, but would serve meals to locals as well.
For much of our history, the abbreviated busy season stretched from May through the end of October. Once the fall foliage
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show was over, things quieted down around here.
That short span of time led to a Darwinian restaurant ecosystem—those that prospered had to be at the top of their game, both in the kitchen and the front of the house.
That commitment to quality and concierge-level of service has earned us an international reputation for fine dining.
That’s why we’re thrilled that you’re a part of this. It’s a tradition that’s been cherished since before we were even a town!
By the way, Highlands is a temperate rainforest. It’s quite possible we’ll get some precipitation while the festival is in full swing.
Please don’t let it dampen your enthusiasm—some of the events are indoors and some are amid our natural splendor. Wear adequate rain gear, adopt a cheerful outlook, and sip some of your favorite beverages—things are certain to turn sunny.
Enjoy the Celebration and Thanks for Everything, Highlands Festivals, Inc.
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Schedule of Events
THUrSDaY, noveMber 7
GRAND TASTING
Featuring Love Canon The Bascom | 7:00 - 10:00 P.M. | pg. 10
FriDaY, noveMber 8
TRUCKIN’
Featuring Wilder Woods, with opener Alex Lambert Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park | 1:00 - 4:30 P.M. | pg. 14
Wine Dinners & Specialty Events | pg. 30
SaTUrDaY, noveMber 9
MAIN EVENT
Featuring Greensky Bluegrass, with opener Larry Keel & Jon Stickley Main Street & 4th Street | 12:00 - 3:30 P.M. | pg. 18
Wine Dinners & Specialty Events | pg. 30
SUnDaY, noveMber 10
A SHOT AT REDEMPTION
Featuring Lee Fields, with opener Abraham Alexander Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park | 12:00 - 3:00 P.M. | pg. 22
Grand Tasting
Thursday, November 7 | 7:00 – 10:00 P.M.
The Bascom | 323 Franklin Road
Get an early start to the weekend at Grand Tasting, Highlands Food & Wine’s kick-off event. Enjoy exquisite small plates from world-class chefs from the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and the Southeast. Sample red, white, and sparkling wines from around the world, along with craft cocktails and craft brews.
PREMIER WEEKEND FESTIVAL SPONSOR
Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC
ASSOCIATE FESTIVAL SPONSORS
Blade and Bow, Diageo, Empire Distributors, Johnson Brothers, Old Edwards Hospitality Group, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Tryon Distributing
PRESENTING GRAND TASTING SPONSOR
Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group
CULINARY APPEARANCES
Massimiliano Proietti with Ristorante Paoletti, Debbie Grossman with Fressers Courtyard Cafe and Catering, Aaron Kulzer with Trailborn, Rachel Lewicki with The Secret Garden, Matt Weinstein and Ashley Cannon with Oak Steakhouse, Markie Weinstein with The Ugly Dog Public House, Gustavo Villota with The Stubborn Buddha, Sophie Delany with One Wicker Cheese Co., John Bowles with Madison’s Restaurant, Davis Taylor with Rhubarb, Santi Guzzetti with Ilda, Jeff Allen with Millers All Day, and Jake Stone with Salthouse Catering.
EVENT SPONSORS
Antinori, Ascent Wines Inc., Blade and Bow, Copper Cane, Davis Family Vineyards, Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, Don Julio Tequila, Donelan Family Wines, Edmunds Oast Brewing Co., Eco Valley, Far Niente, Frederick Wildman, Freixenet Mionetto USA, Gundlach Bundschu Winery, Highlands Wine Shoppe, Joel Gott, Kermit Lynch, Kobrand Fine Wine and Spirits, Marked Tree Vineyard, Massican Wine, Pisoni Estate, Rodney Strong Wine Estates, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Vineyard Brands, and Wagner Family of Wines.
MUSICAL APPEARANCES
Love Canon
Truckin’
Friday, November 8 | 1:00 – 4:30 P.M.
Kelsey-Hutchison Founders Park | 411 Pine Street
Keep Truckin’ along at our Friday afternoon funfest in Highlands. Nosh on dishes from innovative food trucks and vendors while enjoying craft cocktails and the “Highway to Ale” craft brews area.
PREMIER WEEKEND FESTIVAL SPONSOR
Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC
ASSOCIATE FESTIVAL SPONSORS
Blade and Bow, Diageo, Empire Distributors, Johnson Brothers, Old Edwards Hospitality Group, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Tryon Distributing
PRESENTING TRUCKIN’ SPONSOR
Crawford Construction
CULINARY APPEARANCES
Bryan Lewis with Highlands Smokehouse, Massimiliano Proietti with Ristorante Paoletti, Jacky Cabler with The Crafty Goat, Ron Jimenez with New Moon Donuts, Kevin McCarley with The Stubborn Bull, Conner Hinderks with Little Secret, Kathleen Sharpe with All or Nothing Bagels, Joe Cash with Scoundrel, Emilo Papanastasiou with Post 25, JT Noah with Smashville, and Alton Ankersen with Roti Rolls.
EVENT SPONSORS
7 Clans Brewing, Aviation Gin, Blade and Bow, Biltmore Restorative, Bulleit Bourbon, Crown Royal, Donelan Family Wines, Edmunds Oast Brewing Co., Flying Dog, Founders Brewing, French Broad River Brewery, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, High Rise Beverage Co., Lunazul Tequila, Methodical Coffee, Monday Night Brewing, Red Clay Ciderworks, Roberto Coin, Saranac, Sapporo, Sierra Nevada, Southern Libations, Sunboy Spiked Coconut Water, SweetWater Brewing Company, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and TJ Bailey’s.
MUSICAL APPEARANCES
Wilder Woods | Alex Lambert
Main Event
Saturday, November 9 | 12:00 – 3:30 P.M.
Main Street | Between 4th Street and 5th Street
Welcome to the Main Event, where foodies and wine lovers alike will gather to jam on Highlands’ iconic Main Street. Partake in the ultimate oyster roast, savor small plates by esteemed chefs, and enjoy craft cocktails, cold brews, and of course fantastic wines.
PREMIER WEEKEND FESTIVAL SPONSOR
Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC
ASSOCIATE FESTIVAL SPONSORS
Blade and Bow, Diageo, Empire Distributors, Johnson Brothers, Old Edwards Hospitality Group, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Tryon Distributing
PRESENTING MAIN EVENT SPONSOR
Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Meadows Mountain Realty
CULINARY APPEARANCES
John Johnson with Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, Massimiliano Proietti with Ristorante Paoletti, Amy Fogle with Highlands Smokehouse, Maria Escobedo with Highlands Burritos, Ashley Helms and Brian Crow with Chestnut, Nikko Cagalanan with Kultura, Brian Crow and Perry Anderson with The Corner Kitchen, Austyn McGroarty with Curean, Derick Wade with The Darling Oyster Bar, Gordon Gibbs with Flour, Dayna Lee with Comal 864, Jamie Barnes with Serving the Culture, Marcelo Han with Superica, Steven Zurkey with The Anchorage, Joe DiMaio with Charleston Bay Gourmet, Davis Taylor with Rhubarb, Masa Hamaya with O-Ku, Joe Schafer with Electric Hospitalilty Co., Taylor Montgomery with Montgomery Sky Farms, Trey McMillan with Lowcountry Oyster Co., Bryan Lee Weaver with Fancypants, Katsuji Tanabe with A’verde Cocina, and Ken Frazier with Woodside Bistro.
EVENT SPONSORS
Ascent Wines Inc., Aviation Gin, Barbour, Biltmore Restorative, Blade and Bow, Brackish, Bulleit Bourbon, Davis Family Vineyards, Donelan Family Wines, Ecosur, Edmunds Oast Brewing Co., Elijah Craig, Frederick Wildman, French Broad River Brewery, Gundlach Bundschu Winery, Highland Hiker, High Rise Beverage Co., JB Mutual, Joel Gott, Kermit Lynch, Kobrand Fine Wine and Spirits, Low Country Oyster Co., Lunazul Tequila, Marked Tree, Methodical Coffee, Pisoni Estate, Ralph Hayes Toyota, Sangiacomo Family Wines, Sierra Nevada, Southern Libations, Sweetwater Brewing Company, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Vineyard Brands, Wagner Family of Wines, and Wilson Daniels.
MUSICAL APPEARANCES
Greensky Bluegrass | Larry Keel & Jon Stickley
Sunday, November 10 | 12:00 – 3:00 P.M.
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park | 411 Pine Street
Go to church Highlands Food & Wine-style at A Shot at Redemption, our take on Sunday brunch. We’re packing Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park to help restore Appalachia after Hurricane Helene: $125 of every ticket sold from October 10 to the festival goes to these charities: Highlands Emergency Council, Highlands Food Pantry, BeLoved Asheville, Equal Plates Project, and Southern Smoke Foundation.
PREMIER WEEKEND FESTIVAL SPONSOR
Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC
ASSOCIATE FESTIVAL SPONSORS
Blade and Bow, Diageo, Empire Distributors, Johnson Brothers, Old Edwards Hospitality Group, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Tryon Distributing
PRESENTING A SHOT AT REDEMPTION SPONSOR
Highlands Vacation Rentals
CULINARY APPEARANCES
Adam Bresnahan with Ruffed Grouse, Massimiliano Proietti with Ristorante Paoletti, Jason Tardo with Half-Mile Farm, Ashley Cannon with Oak Steakhouse, Nick Dugan with Sorelle, Rachel Lewicki with The Secret Garden, Luke Owens with Native Fine Diner, Vickie Zambrano with Curean, Shawn Kelly with Fork and Plough, Kathleen Sharpe with All or Nothing Bagels, Taylor Montgomery with Montgomery Sky Farms, Carlos Eaez with Mr. Crisp, and Derick Wade with The Darling Oyster Bar.
EVENT SPONSORS
Aviation Gin, Bailey’s, Blade & Bow, Brackish, Bulleit Bourbon, Donelan Family Wines, Lunazul Tequila, Methodical Coffee, Southern Libations, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Lupoli Construction, TJ Bailey’s, and Zing Zang.
MUSICAL APPEARANCES
Lee Fields | Abraham Alexander
Wine Dinners and Specialty Events
WINE CLUB APPRECIATION PARTY
Presented by High Country Wine & Provisions Wednesday, November 6 | 5:00 - 8:00 P.M.
Join in for memorable evening to kick off the Highlands Food and Wine Festival with an exclusive complimentary event for High Country Wine & Provisions wine club members. Indulge in Davis Family Vineyards Wines while enjoying live music – and savor delicious nosh as you mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts. Not a Wine Club Member yet? Join today by visiting website, calling, or just stop in! Celebrate the art of wine and embark on a journey of exquisite tastes and unforgettable experiences. Cheers to an evening of wine, music, and camaraderie!
highcountrywineprovisions.com/wine-club | 828.482.4502
TUSCANY WINE TASTINGS
Presented by Highlands Fine Art and Estate Jewelry Wine Shop Thursday - Saturday, November 7 - 9 | 12:00 - 4:00 P.M.
Delight in complimentary wine tastings featuring selections from the renowned Tuscany region of Italy. Explore exceptional art pieces and unique jewelry while savoring the rich flavors and aromas of Tuscany’s finest wines. It’s an opportunity to indulge your senses and discover something special amid the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
highlandsfineart.com | 828.526.0656
SCOUNDREL WINE DINNER
Presented by The Ruffed Grouse Tavern | Thursday, November 7 | 5:30 & 7:30 P.M.
In a fusion of culinary artistry, Chef Joe Cash, a 2024 James Beard nominee from Greenville’s acclaimed Scoundrel restaurant, is joining forces with the talented culinary team of The Ruffed Grouse Tavern. Together, they will present an unforgettable French-inspired menu that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Two seatings available, 5:30 and 7:30 P.M.
Reservations: highlandermountainhouse.com | 828.526.2590
THIRD ANNUAL HIGHLANDS HARVEST LUNCH
Presented by Highlands Wine Shoppe | Friday, November 8 | 12:00 - 4:00 P.M.
Indulge in a delectable, Italian-inspired harvest feast prepared by wine shop favorite and acclaimed Chef Ken Naron of ENVIE Catering as you enjoy tasting a selection of wines from around the world! And for guests looking for an elevated experience, we also have a limited number of private cellar tasting appointments featuring the legendary wines of Sassicaia, Italy’s first Super Tuscan for an additional $50/per person.
$200 per person plus tax and gratuity | Reservations: 828.526.4080
Wine Dinners and Specialty Events
PIZZA AND LAMBRUSCO WITH CHEF MARK BOLCHOZ
Presented by Skyline Lodge | Friday, November 8 | 6:00 P.M.
Chef Mark Bolchoz will pair Indaco’s signature wood-fired pizzas with the classic Italian sparkling red wine on the welcoming courtyard of Skyline Lodge. Enjoy this pizza party under the twinkling lights.
skyline-lodge.com
DOMAINE DROUHIN WINE DINNER
Presented by On the Verandah | Friday, November 8 | 6:00 P.M.
Drouhin ambassador, Laurent Drouhin will illuminate and educate attendees on the nuances of his famous family wines. Born in 1966 in Beaune, the center of France’s Burgundy region, Laurent was the third child of Françoise and Robert Drouhin, a man known around the world for his passionate devotion to the fine Burgundy wines produced by Maison Joseph Drouhin, the firm started by his grandfather in 1880. To many people the wines of Burgundy are dauntingly complicated and complex, but to Laurent it is far simpler: “The more you know about wine, the closer you get to Burgundy, and the more you know about Burgundy, the closer you get to Maison Joseph Drouhin.” What is certain to be revealed to guests is that within a short space of time, Laurent can convince the most nervous of neophytes that they “get” Burgundy.
$225 per person plus tax and gratuity | Reservations: 828.526.2338
FARMERS, FORAGERS, AND FRIENDS:
Presented by High Country Wine & Provisions and The Library Kitchen + Bar Friday, November 8 | 6:00 P.M.
The camaraderie of Vintner Guy Davis and Chef Johannes Klapdhor trace back to their serendipitous meeting during the first Highlands Food & Wine Festival eight years ago. And that immediate bond has culminated into this weekend’s explorations of tastes dinner – a blending of the local flavors of North Carolina’s farmers and foragers with international ingredients and flair. These dishes will be meticulously paired alongside Davis Family wines, complemented by the European wines that have inspired Guy’s wine journey. Enjoy the opportunity to connect with Guy and Johannes as they share culinary insights and captivating tales. A significant portion of the evening’s proceeds will be directed towards local Hurricane Helene relief funds, adding a meaningful touch to this extraordinary night.
$185 per person plus tax and gratuity | Reservations: highcountrywineprovisions.com
Wine Dinners and Specialty Events
WILD GAME WINE DINNER
Presented by The Vineyard at High Holly | Friday, November 8 | 6:30 P.M.
Enjoy a four-course Wild Game Wine Dinner from chef Michelle Waters featuring Pisoni Estate Vineyard Wines with special guest Mark Pisoni. Jane and Eddie Pisoni started farming in the Salinas Valley in 1952 and the care and pride they consistently brought to their work has been taken up in turn by their son Gary and his children, Jeff and Mark. When Gary began growing grapes in the mountains despite scoffing and disbelief—and in a few short years established the Pisoni Estate and Lucia labels as exceptional wines—the stewardship of the land was only strengthened. These days, under Mark’s and Jeff’s equally able direction, they produce elegant, classically-made Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah upon forty acres in three vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands.
$225 per person all inclusive | Reservations: thevineyardathighholly.com
“BURGUNDY VS. WILLAMETTE” TASTING SEMINAR
Presented by Highlands Wine Shoppe | Saturday, November 9 | 1:30 - 3:30 P.M.
Featuring very special guest Laurent Drouhin of Burgundy’s legendary Maison Joseph Drouhin. Laurent will guide lucky tasters through his family’s beautiful terroir-driven wines based on the cool climate.
$165 per person | Reservations: 828.526.4080
MASTER SOMMELIER AND MASTER OF WINE TASTING SEMINAR
Presented by Highlands Wine Shoppe | Saturday, November 9 | 4:30 - 6:30 P.M.
Renowned Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Eric Hemer returns this year to showcase the extraordinary wines of Gérard Bertrand that hail from the beautiful South of France! Gérard Bertrand’s pioneering approach to biodynamic winemaking, organic farming and sustainable vineyard practices has garnered him the title of innovator and resulted in a portfolio of truly delicious, highly acclaimed wines that draw from his diverse terroirs. Eric will lead us through a delightful lineup of exceptional red, white and rosé wines of this former international rugby star that are guaranteed to delight your palate and expand your vinous horizons!
$65 per person plus tax and gratuity | Reservations: 828.526.4080
Wine Dinners and Specialty Events
BOURBON FLIGHTS AND LIGHT BITES PAIRING
Presented by The Ugly Dog Public House Saturday, November 9 | 5:00 - 9:00 P.M.
Indulge in a curated flight of four specialty selected bourbons, each chosen for its unique character and depth. Ugly Dog’s executive chef, Markie Weinstein, has thoughtfully crafted a series of light bites to enhance and complement the distinct flavors of each bourbon, creating a harmonious tasting experience. Whether you are a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this pairing promises to elevate your palate and provide a memorable culinary journey.
828.526.8364
JUSTIN VINEYARDS WINE DINNER
Presented by On the Verandah | Saturday, November 9 | 6:00 P.M.
Certified Sommelier, and senior on-premise sales manager, Erin Raspotnink will educate guests on Justin’s history and winemaking practices through the winery’s award winning wines. Justin’s vineyards were first planted in 1981 with a mission to make world-class Bordeaux-style blends. Since then, they’ve expanded both their knowledge and viticulture in the unique region of Paso Robles. Founder Justin Baldwin believes that “wine should be exceptional from every angle,” and urges guests to discover the award-winning tradition that begins with the limestone rich soil of Paso Robles and ends when the last glass is poured.
$195 per person plus tax and gratuity | Reservations: 828.526.2338
CAYMUS VINEYARDS WINE DINNER
Presented by Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro Saturday, November 9 | 6:30 P.M.
Wolfgang’s – one of Highlands’ oldest and most acclaimed restaurants, will welcome a representative from famed Napa Valley winery Caymus Vineyards. Chef Wolfgang will create five remarkable courses to complement the winery’s extraordinary output. The evening begins with a champagne reception.
$210 per person plus tax and gratuity | Reservations: 828.526.3807
Festival 411
ATTIRE
Mountain Chic, Resort Casual
Only Grand Tasting (Thursday night) is an indoor event. Truckin’, Main Event, and A Shot at Redemption are OUTDOORS, rain or shine. Please stay up-to-date on the weather forecast and dress appropriately. We also recommend comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
RULES & RESTRICTIONS
No one under the age of 21 is permitted.
Please no pets (service animals are permitted). No outside food or alcohol will be permitted in the events. Chairs are not permitted at events unless stated otherwise. Complimentary water will be provided. No smoking or vaping of any kind.
Please drink responsibly. Anyone that the festival crew deems as inebriated will be asked by security to leave the event. There will be law enforcement at each event.
PARKING
There is limited parking throughout downtown Highlands and at the events. Please consider carpooling or walking to events, if possible. Please respect businesses that have reserved parking for their patrons by not parking there during business hours.
WHAT TO BRING
Government-issued photo ID; Barcoded event tickets; Cash or credit card for merchandise; Proper attire for forecasted weather (gloves, hats, rain gear)
WHAT NOT TO BRING
Pets; Outside food or drink; Chairs; Illegal drugs; Children under the age of 21; Smoking or vaping products of any kind; Bad weather or bad vibes
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Ticket Wristbands
WHERE DO I PICK UP MY TICKET WRISTBANDS?
All attendees will be able to pick up wristbands before the events starting Wednesday, November 6. The Box Office is located at 424 Pine Street in Highlands (formerly Bank of America).
Highlands Food & Wine Box Office Hours
Wednesday, November 6: 3:00 - 6:00 P.M.
Thursday, November 7: 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Friday, November 8: 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Saturday, November 9: 10:00 - 11:00 A.M.
Sunday, November 10: 10:00 - 11:00 A.M.
Please note, only the purchaser of the tickets can pick up wristbands. For those who cannot pick up wristbands early, your tickets will be scanned at the gates and wristbands given. You must have a printed ticket or barcode on your phone to present at the gate for wristband and entry.
WHAT DO I NEED TO GET INTO THE EVENT?
You need your ticket barcode or a wristband. After receiving your event wristband, you must wear your wristband for the duration of the event. VIP Weekender ticket holders must wear Weekender wristbands for the duration of the festival.
HOW DO I PUT ON MY WRISTBAND?
Box Office or gate staff will help you with your wristband. The plastic security lock on the wristband is a one-way lock. Do not play with this lock to tighten the band too much.
WHAT IF I LOSE OR CUT OFF MY WRISTBAND?
Treat your wristband like cash—lost, stolen, tampered with, and/or confiscated wristbands will not be replaced. They are not transferable. Wristbands must be worn at all times. Individuals not wearing a wristband will not be allowed entry, with no exceptions. Do not lose your wristband—these are not replaceable.
RE-ENTRY
Your wristband allows you to come and go as you please to the events. You must have the specific event wristband on to enter/re-enter. Beverages may not leave any event.
WHAT IF I STILL NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Sign up for texts by texting HFW to (828) 202-8911, follow social channels, and join the email list. For specific questions, contact the festival at info@highlandsfoodandwine.com.
Premier Festival Sponsor
Associate Festival Sponsors
Festival Event Partners
Bryson’s Food Store, Eleven Events, JDPR, Music Matters, Paris Mountain Marketing
Lodging Partners
200 Main, Highlands Vacation Rentals, Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Skyline Lodge, and Trailborn Highlands
Media Partners
The Laurel Magazine, Vessel
with Gratitude
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC Staff and Volunteers, The Town of Highlands, Highlands Police Department, and Highlands Fire Department
HIGHLANDS FESTIVALS, INC. BOARD
Jack Austin
David Bock, Chair
Debi Bock
Thomas Craig
Marjorie Deal
Pat Gleeson
Bryan Lewis
Steve Mehder
Marlene Osteen
Steve Palmer
Drew Townes
Mary Adair Trumbly
Hilary Wilkes
ELEVEN EVENTS, LLC
Christy Phillips
Casey Reid
Christina Wells
Jessica Arellana
Matt Finely
Daisy Arbelaez
Giving Back
Remember that your participation in Highlands Food and Wine is not just about enjoyment; it is a testament to your commitment to the community and its future. By taking part in these events, you play a crucial role in fostering a legacy of generosity and support for the generations to come.
The partnership with the Culinary Institute of America through the Louis Osteen Legacy Scholarship is just one facet of how we aim to nurture aspiring chefs from our region, ensuring that the rich culinary heritage of the HighlandsCashiers area continues to flourish.
Louis Osteen’s impact on Southern cuisine was profound, and through this scholarship, we aim to inspire and support those who dream of following in his footsteps.
Moreover, through its two signature festivals, Highlands Food & Wine and Bear Shadow, Highlands Festivals, Inc. has also contributed proceeds to a host of local nonprofits and charitable organizations such as Highlands Food Pantry, Friends of Founders Park, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, Highlands Biological Foundation; the Resource Institute (which is dedicated to restoring America’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands), and the Sky Valley–Scaly Mountain Volunteer Fire & Rescue.
This year, 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.
Sunday’s Shot at Redemption: Support All Rebuilding, provides the perfect close to a weekend of indulgence and community – $125 from every ticket sold to the brunch will be donated to local and regional nonprofits leading Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
Though Highlands is only about 45 miles from Asheville, we were somehow spared the devastation that ravaged so much of Western North Carolina. We’re a tightknit community, but we cannot ignore the suffering of our neighbors.
Not only does the 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.
That’s a lot of Good Things, and we hope you’ll take a measure of satisfaction with you – beyond the slightly-tighter trousers and soothed spirit – knowing that you’ve contributed to something wonderful.
Travel Carefully and Be Sure to Join Us Next Year!
Donate today at highlandsfoodandwine. com/information/giving-back.
