Newport News, VA (February 26, 2026) – More than 580 Hampton Roads residents gathered at the Virginia Living Museum Friday night for an evening that raised over $114,500 to support environmental education programs serving thousands of local students annually.
The 22nd Annual Bacchus Wine and Food Festival transformed the museum’s wildlife galleries into an upscale tasting event, with guests sampling cuisine from 15 local restaurants while surrounded by exhibits featuring native Virginia species. The fundraiser supports the museum’s educational programs, reduced admission fees for community members, and native wildlife conservation efforts.
“Inspiring over 95,000 students annually through education programs, exhibits and demonstrations takes a community.” said Rebecca Kleinhample, Executive Director and CEO. “Events like Bacchus create impact. They align community good will and fund the engine.”
Local Restaurant Competition Highlights Culinary Talent
Attendees voted DD214 Smokehouse as this year’s “Best of Bacchus” winner, with their scrumptious Pork belly burnt ends and smoked sliced chicken breast. “What a pleasure to serve the community at such a great event. There are so many amazing food establishments at Bacchus, we are honored to participate,” said Kevin Russell, Owner. “For DD214 Smokehouse, just being invited to this is a huge success. We thank the amazing people who support us and the wonderful programs at the Museum. Can’t wait until next year.”
The competition featured signature dishes from new culinary voices and established Peninsula favorites including: Schlesinger’s Steakhouse, Riverwalk, Water Street Grill, Ember, The Jewish Mother’s Deli, MOMO’s Cafe, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Chef’s Market, Smoke BBQ Restaurant and Bar, Saté, K and L Sweet Cakes, Passanante’s Home Food Services, Dough Haus, and Running Lights all of which donated their food and talent for the fundraiser.
Community Impact Beyond Fundraising
The Virginia Living Museum serves as both a regional attraction and educational community anchor, hosting over 225,000 visitors annually. Its conservation programs include Monarch Watch, Coastal Cleanup and Green Teens. As a Certified Virginia Green travel partner, it is committed to implementing environmentally-friendly operations and educating about sustainable practices. This year’s fundraising total represents a 5% increase over last year, reflecting growing community investment in these initiatives.
The event was presented by TowneBank, with support from Abbitt Realty, Hampton Roads Orthopaedics Spine & Sports Medicine, Adams, Jenkins, & Cheatham, PC, Waltz Engineered Sales, Trinchero Family Estates, Promise Law, Spectrum Comm Inc., W.M. Jordan, Christina Michelson, Curtis Lassiter and Keith Compton – Edward Jones, Pearson Toyota, David A. Nice Builders, Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, Diamond Management LLC, and over 15 other community sponsors in addition to Board Host Sponsors Rebecca Aman & Tom Aman, Hank and Suzanne Beckstoffer, Melvin & Michelle Ferebee, and Kevin & KJ Jordan.
MEDIA NOTE: High-resolution photos from the event and interviews with museum leadership and educators, or winning chefs, are available upon request.
