12 UCW FEBRUARY 6-12, 2019
WWW.UPANDCOMINGWEEKLY.COM
When people think of North Caro-
lina, wine and chocolate aren't always
the first things that come to mind, but
there are plenty of vintners, chocolat-
iers and other specialty vendors with
big flavors to share. Big Dog Events
and Galaxy Events present the Wine
and Chocolate Festival Saturday, Feb.
16, from 1-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. at the
Crown Complex.
"e purpose of the event is to
educate the consumer on the different
local wines and chocolates that are
available within North Carolina," said
Amanda Knepp, general manager and
event producer for Big Dog Events.
"e event is a taste of wines from
across the Carolinas — and there will
be chocolatiers, sauces, jams, jellies,
spreads, gourmet treats and honey."
Knepp added that Fayetteville Tech-
nical Community College's culinary
students and instructors will have an
interactive display featuring premiere
chocolate.
A representative from the Chocolate
Monkey will walk participants through
a chocolate tasting that includes sev-
eral different types of delectables. She
will explain the different hints of flavors
that are in the chocolate.
ere will also be boutiques, shop-
ping, jewelry, makeup and more. Jew-
elry and artisans will sell their wares.
"is is a festival for men and women,"
said Knepp. "We are working with our
friends at the Center for Empowerment
and Economic Development, and they
will talk with patrons about what (their
organization does) in the community."
Knepp added that CEED's goal is to
raise funds for a shared commissary
and kitchen space in Fayetteville for
local chefs, growers and farmers. One
dollar from every bottle of wine sold at
the festival will be donated to CEED.
"Fayetteville has been so welcom-
ing, supportive and friendly. We are
looking forward to the festival on the
16th," said Knepp.
Advanced tickets cost $35 until Feb.
15 and $40 the day of the show. ere is
a 10 percent military discount. e tick-
et includes all wine and food samples
and a complimentary tasting glass.
For more information, visit
www.wineandchocolatefestivals.com.
Wine and Chocolate Festival brings local flavors to the Crown
by DR. SHANESSA FENNER
EVENT
DR. SHANESSA FENNER, Prin-
cipal, WT Brown Elementary School.
COMMENTS? Editor@upandcom-
ingweekly.com. 910-484-6200.
The Wine and Chocolate Festival features two sessions, each showcasing North
Carolina wines, chocolates and more.
