Fork+Flask's Wine & Food Festival to benefit Children & Families First

Although the first day of spring is March 20, the growing number of springtime festivals in April is a sure sign that the season is in full swing.

Washington, D.C. has its National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. California kicks off its famous Coachella Music Festival. And Atlanta is now enjoying eight decades of the famous Annual Dogwood Festival. But closer to home, Delaware boasts its own renowned Wine & Food Festival hosted by Fork+Flask at Nage, now in its ninth year. And that's good news for the deserving Children & Families First, a statewide organization with local programming offered through the Georgetown office.

"We're in the hospitality business, and giving back to our community is an important mission for all of our brands here in Sussex County," said Josh Grapski, managing partner at La Vida Hospitality Group. "We recognize the important work being done by the people at Children & Families First, so we think one of our most important events of the year should also offer support for them. Every year festival-goers come from all over Delaware, as well as surrounding states," he added.

Sponsored by Rehoboth's Echelon Custom Homes, the 9th Annual Wine & Food Festival at Nage is set Sunday, April 23, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the restaurant's Rehoboth Beach location, which includes an oversized tented party pavilion to accommodate the large attendance. New this year is a special VIP Hour from 4 to 5 p.m., allowing more time for guests to interact with visiting wine experts representing over 50 wines from 10 important wine regions around the world.

"All of the funds raised through this event will stay in Sussex County so that we can continue to offer our programs free of charge, and with the ability to proactively respond to changing community needs," said Laura Rimmer, regional development coordinator for the nonprofit group.

Children & Families First uses proven methods to help Delaware families raise their children so they can flourish. A continuum of programs span mental health, healthcare, education and social services working collaboratively to support families through major life phases: helping moms have healthy babies, enhancing early childhood success, supporting teens, positive parenting and family resources for success at home and work.

"We serve more than 40,000 clients statewide each year," said Rimmer. "Our child-centered and family-focused services are delivered where they are needed most: in homes, in schools, agency locations and community sites. Whether you are a long-time supporter or just learning about Children & Families First, we encourage everyone to come to the Food + Wine Festival as we celebrate and honor building thriving communities throughout Delaware together."

Voted Best Restaurant in Rehoboth Beach, Fork+Flask at Nage is located at 19730 Coastal Highway, Routh 1 South; open daily at 4 p.m. for happy hour and dinner service. Both kitchen and bar are open late night til 1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday weekend brunch is served from 10 a.m. to 2:30 pm. Reservations may be made at 302-226-2037.

9th Annual Wine & Food Festival tickets and information are available online at forkandflask.com.