Wine, food and music festival to kick off with dinner Sept. 30

The 7th Annual Southern Delaware Wine, Food & Music Festival will kick off with a farm-to-table dinner prepared by award-winning chef Hari Cameron. 

For what may be the event of the season, 50 guests will indulge in dishes made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients for an indulgent feast by Cameron. Refreshments will include cocktails and mocktails from a talented mixologist along with fine wines from around the globe.

Diners are in for a special treat. As part of the evening’s program, they will learn about the journey Ingrid Hopkins, owner of Hopkins Heartland, has taken to preserve the natural beauty and historical integrity of the 1,000-acre farm. “It is a story that began in the late 1800s and will continue on for many generations to come,” said Hopkins. “I am so fortunate to have this opportunity to not only join Stacy LaMotta, the heart, soul and founder of this festival, but also to assist in the efforts to raise money for Children’s Beach House and Pathways to Success.”

Sponsors and guests got to experience the beauty and expanse of the event’s new venue – The Covered Bridge at Hopkins Heartland – at the kickoff party in July.

“This event is the very best of coastal Delaware – our restaurants, breweries, wine merchants,” said LaMotta. “We are expecting a sold-out crowd this year.”

The Southern Delaware Wine, Food & Music Festival will take place from noon to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 1. This is the first time the Covered Bridge at Hopkins Heartland has been involved with a community charitable event.

This year, attendees will feast on food from more than 20 local restaurants and beverages that include over 75 varieties of wines, craft beers and cocktails. Participants can listen to superb top-tapping music in different locations on the historic grounds.

The Chef Throwdown, the signature event, will have a unique twist as two teams of creative chefs battle in a “Chopped”-style competition. A silent auction will include special packages to bid on and other surprises.

This southern Delaware festival provides an array of culinary experiences, award-winning chefs, and a wide variety of wines, beer, and cocktails. Founded by LaMotta in 2014, the event has raised close to $200,000 over the years for local charities.

The celebration of life, laughter, friendship and togetherness pours each year’s proceeds into local nonprofits doing important work to strengthen area communities.

To purchase a ticket for the pre-event dinner or for the festival, go to sodelfest.com.