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20th Anniversary Bacchus Wine and Food Festival raises over $97,000 for Virginia Living Museum

By thevlm In Press Releases

Newport News, VA (April 2, 2024) The Virginia Living Museum proudly recognizes our community for  the resounding success of  the 20th Anniversary Bacchus Wine and Food Festival. Hosted on February 2 in grand style, this milestone event delighted over 600 distinguished guests with a sensory feast of fine wines, gourmet creations from 16 local restaurants, and captivating entertainment, all while raising more than $97,000 in crucial support for the advancement of science education, animal welfare, and conservation efforts.

Guests were immersed in a tapestry of flavors and melodies throughout Museum galleries, as they indulged in an array of worldly wines, culinary delights, and live entertainment. The Divine Reception, an exclusive prelude to the Main Event, treated  guests to premier tastings and a selection of 90+ rated wines, setting the stage for an evening of unparalleled enjoyment.

tantalizing palates with gastronomic delights  showcased renowned establishments namely James River Country Club, Schlesinger’s Steakhouse, Cibus Chophouse, MOMO’s Cafe, SATE’, The Grey Goose, Baker’s Wife Bistro, Kitchenfinity, Garden Grille at the Hilton Garden Inn, SMOKE BBQ, DD214 Smokehouse, TASTE Unlimited, Firehouse Coffee, Creative Catering of Virginia,, Traditions Catering,, and Nothing Bundt Cakes. Craft breweries, including St. George Brewing Company, Tradition Brewing Company, Oozlefinch Beers & Blending, and Sly Clyde Ciderworks added their distinctive flavors to the festivities.

“The generosity of our partners for this most popular community event, local entertainers, restaurants, sponsors, and retail donors is truly extraordinary and humbling.,” said Ms. Kleinhample. “This tremendous volunteer effort and support is testament to an organization built by the community, beloved by the community and sustained by the community. The Museum is rich with friends for education and conservation.”

Graciously presented by Old Point National Bank, the success of the event was further bolstered by the generous support of esteemed sponsors, including Abbitt Realty, Hampton Roads Orthopaedics Spine & Sports Medicine, Waltz Engineered Sales, Inc., Pearson Toyota, ARTi Inc., U.S. Lawns, Distinctive Event Rentals, M. Price Distributing, Republic National Distributing Company, Jeff’s Flowers Of Course, , and Ashby C. Kilgore. Board Special Hosts, Rebecca Aman, Amy McCarthy and Jill Verser,ensured the event’s success.

Certified as a Virginia Green event, the Bacchus Wine & Food Festival aligns with the mission of Virginia Green to promote sustainable tourism. This voluntary partnership program encourages environmentally conscious practices across all sectors of the Virginia tourism industry.

The Virginia Living Museum, located at 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News, I-64, exit 258A, invites visitors to explore its exhibits and programs dedicated to science education and wildlife conservation. For more information visit thevlm.org or call 757-595-1900. Stay updated by following the Museum on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.