Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival

About the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation

In 2012, a passionate group of food and beverage enthusiasts in Fort Worth came together to celebrate the vibrant culinary scene of Cowtown. Founders Russell Kirkpatrick and Mike Micallef, both veterans of the renowned Reata restaurant, initiated the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival, which has since evolved into a beloved annual event.

The inaugural festival took place in 2014, showcasing the talents of local chefs and attracting food lovers from all over. Over the years, the festival has grown, moving to various iconic locations in Fort Worth, including the Pier 1 headquarters and Billy Bob's Texas. By 2018, the festival found its home at Clearfork, where it continues to host signature events featuring everything from tacos to upscale dining experiences.

However, the mission of the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation extends beyond just celebrating food and drink. As a nonprofit organization, it is dedicated to supporting culinary education and providing financial assistance to food and beverage industry employees. The Foundation offers scholarships to North Texas high school students pursuing culinary arts and grants to local high school culinary programs in need of resources.

In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Foundation launched an employee relief program, providing crucial financial support to restaurant workers facing hardships. This initiative continues to assist those in need, ensuring that the community remains strong and resilient.

Impact of the Foundation

To date, the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation has raised an impressive $325,000 for grants and scholarships, directly benefiting deserving culinary students and industry professionals in Fort Worth.

Why Donate?

Your contributions are vital in helping the Foundation continue its mission to support the restaurant and hospitality industries that make Fort Worth a culinary destination.

Get Involved

Join the movement to uplift the culinary community in Fort Worth! Your donation, whether in cryptocurrency or cash, can make a significant difference. Support scholarships, grants, and relief programs that empower the next generation of culinary talent and assist those in need.

Donate today and be a part of the delicious success story of the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation!