The Southwest Florida Food and Wine Fest is a Must-Attend Event for Wine Lovers and Charity Supporters
The Southwest Florida Food and Wine Fest is an unforgettable blend of fine wine, gourmet dining, and philanthropy. Its short but impactful history has made it one of the most important events for children’s health in the region.
Visiting Fort Myers Beach and the surrounding area in February? You’re in for a treat if you love wine or simply enjoy a lively local event filled with friendly people, great food, and a wonderful atmosphere.
The Southwest Florida Food and Wine Fest is one of the nation’s top charity wine events and a highlight of Lee County’s social calendar. Held every February, this festival pairs exquisite wines, gourmet cuisine, and a lively auction, all in support of children’s health care initiatives. It’s the largest annual fundraising event in the region, raising millions of dollars to benefit local hospitals and education programs, and attracting many visitors and locals for a unique, fun celebration of all things wine.
Let’s kick things off with a quick look at what’s ahead:
Discover the Festival: A top U.S. charity wine event raising millions for children’s health.
Learn Its Story: From a small fundraiser to a nationally recognized celebration.
Enjoy the Highlights: Chef Vintner Dinners, Grand Tasting & Auction, and After Party.
Support a Cause: 100% of proceeds benefit local pediatric care and education.
Plan Your Trip: Book early, dress up, and arrange transportation.
Easy to Reach: About 30–45 minutes from Fort Myers Beach.
What People Say: Guests love the wine, the energy, and the community spirit.
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In this blog, I’ll share everything you need to know about this must-attend event so you can plan your trip and dive into one of Florida’s most vibrant and beloved celebrations.
Ready? Let’s jump into the details!
Short History of the Event
The festival began in the mid-2000s as a small community fundraiser bringing together local chefs, vintners, and philanthropists. Its goal was simple: raise money to improve children’s health care in Southwest Florida. Over time, it grew into a nationally recognized event, now drawing top chefs, international wine producers, and generous donors from across the country.
To date, the festival has raised more than $15.6 million for pediatric health initiatives, much of it benefiting Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. Its continued success makes it a cornerstone of the region’s philanthropic and culinary scene.
Highlights of the Festival
The Southwest Florida Food and Wine Fest is more than just a food event; it’s a celebration of generosity and community.
Chef Vintner Dinners
What It Is: An intimate dining experience held on Friday night in private venues across Southwest Florida.
Why You’ll Love It: Guests enjoy curated multi-course menus prepared by the region’s top chefs, paired with exceptional wines from international vintners.
Bonus: Your ticket also includes admission to Saturday’s Grand Tasting and Live Auction.
Grand Tasting & Live Auction
The Main Event: Held at Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club, this is where the festival truly shines.
What to Expect: Taste award-winning wines, sample gourmet dishes, and bid on over 40 luxury auction lots.
Auction Highlights: Items often include international wine experiences, exclusive culinary packages, and luxury vacations around the world.
After Party
Keep the Celebration Going: Following the auction, guests can dance, mingle, and enjoy even more food and wine.
Atmosphere: A lively, social ending to a weekend of fine dining and philanthropy.
Fun Fact: The event is known for donating 100% of its proceeds to children’s health initiatives, setting it apart from many other charity events.
About SWFL Children’s Charities
The festival benefits SWFL Children’s Charities, a nonprofit dedicated to improving pediatric health care in the region. Their mission includes funding hospital equipment, specialized care programs, and scholarships for future health professionals.
Event Beneficiaries
Proceeds are distributed among three key organizations:
Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida: Expanding services and technology for local families.
FGCU Health Professions: Supporting training programs for nurses, physicians, and allied health professionals.
Florida SouthWestern State College: Funding nursing and health sciences programs to meet community demand.
Tips on How to Enjoy the Event
A little preparation makes the weekend smooth and memorable.
Book Early: Tickets sell out quickly; secure yours months in advance.
Dress for the Occasion: Cocktail or resort chic attire works best.
Preview the Auction: Browse the catalog online so you know which lots to target.
Plan for Transportation: Consider a car service or rideshare for a worry-free evening.
Stay Hydrated & Pace Yourself: Wine tastings can add up, so sip mindfully and drink water between tastings.
How far is Fort Myers Beach from the event venues?
Getting to the festival from Fort Myers Beach is easy by car:
Chef Vintner Dinners: Venues vary but are typically 30–45 minutes away.
Grand Tasting & Auction: Held at Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club, about 30 minutes northeast of Fort Myers Beach.
After Party: Usually held at or near the main event venue, so plan for the same travel time.
Pro Tip: Build in extra time if traveling during peak season or dinner hours, as traffic in Lee County can be heavy.
What People Say About the Festival
Hearing from past attendees gives you a sense of why this event stands out:
“The Chef Vintner Dinner was unlike anything we’ve experienced — the wine pairings were impeccable.”
“The auction is so much fun. Everyone is in high spirits, and you really feel the generosity in the room.”
“It’s not just a wine festival; it’s a community coming together to do good while having a great time.”
“Every dollar goes to a worthy cause, and that makes the evening even more special.”
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the event take place?
The festival is held every February over two days, Friday for Chef Vintner Dinners and Saturday for the Grand Tasting and Auction.
Q: How much are tickets?
Tickets typically range from $500 for the After Party to $1,500 for the Chef Vintner Dinners (which include Saturday admission).
Q: Can I attend just one event?
Yes, you can purchase tickets for individual events, though many guests choose to attend the entire weekend.
Q: Are tickets tax-deductible?
Yes. A significant portion of your ticket price may qualify as a charitable donation since proceeds benefit SWFL Children’s Charities.
Q: Is it family-friendly?
No. The event is designed for adults due to its wine tastings and evening schedule.
Q: Where does the money go?
100% of the proceeds benefit children’s health care initiatives and educational programs in Southwest Florida.
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