What a beautiful day it was in Pasadena on Sunday, June 9th! The highly anticipated 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival did not disappoint, offering a delectable spread, refreshing beverages, and a vibrant atmosphere – all for a fantastic cause.
A Golden Celebration in a New Location
This year’s festival marked a momentous occasion, celebrating 50 years of AbilityFirst’s incredible work. To commemorate this golden anniversary, the event took place at a stunning new location – The Urquhart Residence in South Pasadena. The picturesque outdoor setting provided the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of indulging in delicious food, raising a toast to AbilityFirst, and making meaningful connections with fellow Angelenos.
A Culinary Adventure for All Palates
The festival truly lived up to its name, featuring an impressive array of culinary delights. From classic favorites like El Cholo Café to innovative creations from Gale’s Restaurant, there was something to tantalize every taste bud. We licked our lips over the melt-in-your-mouth steaks from Alexander’s Steakhouse and the handcrafted cheeses from Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery. And let’s not forget the sweet treats! Nothing Bundt Cake and Porto’s Bakery satisfied everyone’s dessert cravings.
Sipping and Savoring Beyond the Plate
The culinary adventure didn’t stop at the food. The festival offered a fantastic selection of beverages to complement every bite. Guests enjoyed handcrafted cocktails and spirit tastings from renowned brands like 1886 at The Raymond, Empress 1908 Gin, and Knox & Dobson. Craft beer enthusiasts were happy with selections from Golden Road Brewing and Ogopogo Brewing, while wine aficionados delighted in curated offerings from Caymus Vineyards, Navarro Vineyards, and the Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery. Non-alcoholic options from Celsius and PepsiCo ensured everyone could participate in the festivities.
Giving Back Never Tasted So Good
The true heart of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival lies in its impactful mission. For 98 years, AbilityFirst has been a champion for individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their person-centered programs empower individuals through every stage of life, fostering social connections, promoting independence, and providing vital employment training and experience.
A Record-Breaking Year for AbilityFirst!
The 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival was a resounding success, raising an impressive $251,931. These funds will directly support AbilityFirst’s life-changing programs, making a significant impact on the lives of those they serve.
A Toast to a Remarkable Event
We raised our glasses and forks to a day filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and heartwarming moments of community spirit. It was a privilege to be a part of this momentous occasion and to salute and support AbilityFirst’s incredible work. Here’s to many more years of empowering individuals and creating positive change!
