Behind You Classic 2026
Thank you to everyone came out to MacGregor Downs Country Club in Cary, North Carolina to show their support for North Carolina’s food and beverage industry — the event raised an incredible $75,000 with your help! These critical funds will go directly towards supporting SSF’s Behind You mental health program and its expansion into North Carolina.
Southern Smoke Festival
At Southern Smoke Festival on October 3, 2026, you’ll get bites from some of the best chefs in the country, excellent drinks poured by top bartenders, live music, culinary demos, and all the big-hearted energy that makes this weekend so special. Get ready for a celebration of food, community, and the people who make this industry shine.
Southern Smoke Decanted 2026
Southern Smoke Decanted brought together an incredible community of vintners, chefs, and supporters for an unforgettable afternoon of great wine, amazing food, and even bigger generosity, raising an incredible $1.6 million to support food and beverage workers nationwide. From the walk-around tastings to the high-energy live auction, the room was filled with people showing up for the industry in a real way. Every glass poured and every paddle raised will go directly toward Southern Smoke Foundation’s mission of providing emergency relief funding and access to mental health resources for hospitality workers in crisis, a powerful reminder of what this community can do when it comes together.
Interested in hosting an event to benefit Southern Smoke? Reach out at
caroline@southernsmoke.org
Jun 19–21, 2026
Food & Wine Classic
Aspen, CO
Join us in 2026 for the ‘unofficial kick-off to the summer,’ a spectacular weekend of premier epicurean adventures at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen! This leading culinary event which has been a must-visit experience for four decades consists of three incredible days of cooking demonstrations, wine & spirit tastings, and panel discussions led by world-class chefs and beverage experts. In 2026, Food & Wine will continue its efforts to raise funds and awareness for culinary causes with Food & Wine Gives. Food & Wine will donate a portion of net proceeds to charity partners, No Kid Hungry and Southern Smoke Foundation.
