In Perfect Harmony: Theme set for 2023 Naples Winter Wine Festival

Reporter: Michelle Alvarez Writer: Matthew Seaver
Published: Updated:
Wine pouring into wine glass
Wine pouring into wine glass (Credit: WINK News)

Spreading the wealth in Southwest Florida to help kids in need. The Naples Winter Wine Festival is a huge event and brings in millions of dollars to support our children.

“In Perfect Harmony” is the theme for next year’s Naples Winter Wine Festival which returns to The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples on Feb. 3-5.

It is one of the most prestigious charity wine auctions in the country where trustees, patrons, donors and volunteers come together to help children in Collier County.

Plans for the 2023 Naples Winter Wine Festival are coming together quickly.

The annual event showcases the finest wines exquisite cuisine and auction lots to benefit children in need.

“Together after 23 years, we’ve raised almost $244 million that have been invested back in the community, to help young people be safe and be healthy and thrive and have a promising future,” said Maria Jimenez ‘Lara, CEO of the Naples Children and Education Foundation.

The 23rd annual Naples Winter Wine Festival comes after the 2022 record-breaking event.

“This year was over $21 million. And our goal is to beat that again for this coming year,” said Robert Heidt Jr., 2023 Naples Winter Wine Festival Co-Chair.

WINK News asked Heidt Jr. why he decided to get involved.

“It’s a gift of love. You know, you do this because it’s for people that are in need. And the children of collier county have a tremendous need,” said Heidt Jr.

People travel from all parts of the world for the annual event.

Co-chair Bill Beynon said the anticipation is already building.

“We’re working very hard to bring in the best chefs, some of the best vendors from around the world. And we think it’s gonna be a wonderful experience. We hope that our past attendees will return and new people will have an opportunity to join us this year,” said Beynon.

The theme “In Perfect Harmony” reflects the ensemble of award-winning chefs and vintners who come together each year.

“If we don’t have the Naples Winter Wine Festival, then all of those services don’t get funded. And there isn’t a financial resource for providing those services in our community. And we know that if the children are in a good place, and if the children have a promising future then our community is going to be in an amazing place forever and ever,” said Jimenez ‘Lara.

The Naples Children and Education Foundation makes sure every dollar helps children get the tools and services they need to thrive.

The festival moves to the first weekend in February which is one week later than usual.

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