The finest chefs. The top restaurants. The most stylish locations. The choicest wines. The best children’s charities on the Suncoast. What do these all have in common? You can find it all at the Florida Winefest & Auction! 

For the past 30 years, Florida Winefest & Auction has been one of the most talked about events in the Sarasota area. The lunches, dinners, auctions and other events always guarantee a great time will be had by all. But did you know that over $9 Million has been raised and donated to children’s charities by Florida Winefest & Auction since 1991? 

Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic put a pause on all of the events, but the FWA is ready to get back to hosting one of the biggest philanthropic events in the area. Yes! It’s true, the Florida Winefest is finally back and better than ever to bring assistance to the Sarasota-Manatee community when it needs it. If you’ve been to the FWA in past years, or even if you’ve heard of it, no doubt you know that it’s chock-full of fun events. It may be the first year any of them have been held since 2019, but FWA is back and better than ever!  If you want to get the scoop on

Look no further for the list of the can’t-miss events coming this fall with the return of Florida Winefest & Auction. Read on to find out everything you need to know. 

The Charity Auction

October 29 – November 11 2022 | Online at FloridaWinefest.org

The Auction this year will be held online. This gives participants the opportunity to browse and shop over a period of time. This auction isn’t your average bake sale. It’s full of exciting and luxurious items you can feel good about bidding on and supporting the FWA’s recipients. Some items from past auctions over the years have included: 

1. Winery Visits to California, France, and Portugal – not the usual visit, but an immersive trip, with lodging on site of the winery, where guests were able to assist and learn about the wine making process. 
2. A trip to London 
3. A personal tour of Christie’s London Auction House and Wine Vaults
4. And many more exciting auction items! 

The Truffle Dinner 

November 12, 2022 | Sage Restaurant 

The Truffle Dinner is one of the most looked forward to events of the year, and if you’re wondering why, a hint is in its name. This dinner features the savory delicacies in an array of dishes. This year’s dinner will be held at the Sage Restaurant.  Expect an elegant setting in a historic building, combined with fresh flavors and unique pairings. Rooftop views from the 4th floor add even more ambiance to the evening.  If you can only attend one this year, this event is at the top of the list. Not only for the world class dinner, but also because the grant recipients will be announced! This is a great way to support and get to know the charities in our community.

In addition to experiencing a magical night of delectable treats, guests will get to find out firsthand who the recipients of the grants will be for the upcoming year. 

Recipients over the years include some of the most invaluable charities in the area. Past recipients include: 

• All Star Children’s Foundation 
• Community Haven 
• Volunteer Services of Manatee County 
• Turning Points 
• The Asolo Theatre 
• YMCA Children, Youth, and Family Services 

Wineries at Florida Winefest & Auction 

In past years, over 70 prestigious wineries have participated. Interested to know who’s involved? Click here to see the list of wineries involved. 

Other Ways to Get Involved with Florida Winefest & Auction 

Can’t wait to get involved with the event? There a couple of ways you can do that! You can donate directly to the Florida Winefest. Donations of both funds and auction items are both welcome, as well as both individual and corporate donations, so your business can get involved as well. You can also donate your time by volunteering! 

Whether you want to get involved by:

• Donating funds 
• Donating auction items 
• Volunteering 

You can email info@floridawinefest.org to let them know your areas of interest, and you will hear back as soon as possible.

Do you know of a children’s charity that could benefit from a donation from Florida Winefest & Auction? Non-profit charities in Sarasota and Manatee counties that serve underprivileged kids and their families are invited to apply. Note that applications are due by June 30, 2022, so please share this link to the grant application form with anyone who may be interested.  

 To stay updated on all of the exciting events, follow FWA Instagram and Facebook.