NEW ORLEANS – The Emeril Lagasse Foundation said it raised $3.6 million for children’s charities as it celebrated its 15th annual fundraising weekend on Nov. 8 and 9 in New Orleans.
The signature outdoor food and music festival Boudin, Bourbon & Beer kicked off the weekend bringing together more than 70 of the country’s best chefs for an evening of Louisiana-inspired culinary celebration in Champions Square. The following night, the Foundation hosted its 15th annual Carnivale du Vin, the nationally recognized wine auction and gala dinner held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
“My wife Alden and I are so grateful for the generosity of our sponsors, participating chefs and winemakers, as well as the incredible support from our donors and the community over the past 15 years,” said Chef Emeril Lagasse. “Together, we’ve raised funds to support numerous youth-based programs that are working to make a true difference in children’s lives. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who is supporting our cause.”
Over 4,000 people attended Boudin, Bourbon & Beer and enjoyed craft brews from Abita Beer, bourbon cocktails from Buffalo Trace and samplings of boudin-inspired dishes from local and visiting chefs. Throughout the night, guests enjoyed a music lineup featuring Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Grace Potter, Fruition and Motel Radio.
Carnivale du Vin featured the best in wine and food with culinary greats Richard Blais, David Burke, Ashley Christensen, Duff Goldman and Sarah Grueneberg. Over 600 guests experienced a four-course meal created by Emeril Lagasse and New Orleans Center for Creative Arts culinary students. Assisting in meal plating and serving were graduates and interns from hospitality training programs at Liberty’s Kitchen, Café Reconcile, Café Hope and Louisiana ProStart.
Emeril Lagasse Foundation works to help youth reach their full potential, and funds raised from the weekend allow the Foundation to support children’s culinary, nutrition and arts education programs throughout the year, including its signature program, Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen, a national education initiative created to enrich the lives of elementary and middle school children through a fun, fresh perspective on food.
“We are thrilled with the success of a record-breaking fundraising weekend, said Emeril Lagasse Foundation president Brian Kish. “All those who support our foundation and annual signature fundraising events are helping to create brighter futures for our youth, and we are continuously thankful for the support and all who make our efforts possible.”
