FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen event to return in September

FOOD & WINE has announced that its annual culinary event, Classic in Aspen, Colorado, will take place between 10–12 September this year after a Covid hiatus. At a time when the events arms of media organisations have taken a huge hit, many are starting to bounce back with hybrid offerings.

Now in its 38th edition, the event will bring together a line-up of top chefs, wine experts, and events such as cooking demonstrations, dining experiences at local restaurants, and wine pairings. The event will also include virtual and digital extensions, to be announced in the coming months. 

Among the participating chefs who will host live demos are Martha Stewart, Carla Hall, Kwame Onwuachi, Brooke Williamson, Guy Fieri, Kristen Kish, Maneet Chauhan, Melissa King, Andrew Zimmern, Claudette Zepeda, Rodney Scott, and Justin Chapple, as well as the Top Chef Season 18 Winner.

This year’s FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen will offer a more intimate setting compared to prior years in order to create opportunities for social distancing and appropriate safety protocols. 

“For our team, this year’s event takes on a new meaning and a new appreciation in light of the past year,” said Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief of FOOD & WINE. “I’m grateful to the many talented chefs and experts who are joining us to create a world-class experience. We also thank the City of Aspen for its hospitality and continued partnership and look forward to celebrating and connecting with our culinary community.”

A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Southern Smoke Foundation, a national emergency relief fund that supports workers in the food and beverage industry in crisis, and No Kid Hungry, the only national campaign committed to ending childhood hunger in the USA. 

The FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen has traditionally taken place during the month of June and the decision was made to host it in September this year, keeping safety top of mind. Next year, the FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen will return on 19–22 June, 2022.