Arts for All Gala Breaks Records with $5 Million

Festival Napa Valley’s Arts for All Gala shattered its fundraising record on July 13, raising an extraordinary $5 million at the sold-out celebration held at Nickel & Nickel winery. Gala Chair Mary Beth Shimmon orchestrated an evening that seamlessly blended world-class entertainment with committed philanthropy, as seven-time Grammy and Oscar winner Jon Batiste delivered a stirring performance against the backdrop of Far Niente’s lush vineyards. The musical luminary’s genre-defying artistry captivated guests who had gathered to support one of the nation’s premier fundraisers for education and the arts.

James Beard Award-winning chef Rogelio Garcia of Michelin-starred Auro in Calistoga crafted a sumptuous dinner that showcased his inventive, terroir-driven approach, thoughtfully pairing each course with exceptional House of Far Niente wines. Celebrated auctioneer and author Lydia Fenet energized the high-stakes live auction, while honorees Robin and Michelle Baggett joined vintner luminaries Gina Gallo, Jean-Charles Boisset, Kathryn Hall and Craig Hall in celebrating the record-breaking success. The evening brings Festival Napa Valley’s total Arts for All fundraising to over $33 million, funding vital education programs, music and wellness initiatives, and scholarships that champion the power of music to create thriving communities.