Naples Winter Wine Festival Raises an Impressive $34 Million for Children’s Charities

In late January, the Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF) achieved a remarkable milestone, celebrating its 25th anniversary by raising over $34 million for children’s charities—a new record for the event. This achievement surpassed last year’s total by $1 million, solidifying NWWF’s status as the premier charity wine auction in the nation. Held outside the Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, approximately 650 wine enthusiasts gathered to partake in the festivities, all benefiting the Naples Children and Education Foundation (NCEF).

Since its inception in 2001, NWWF has raised more than $336 million for charitable initiatives. Lisa Juliano, senior vice president of NWWF and event production, expressed gratitude for the generosity of donors and sponsors, emphasizing the continuing impact this support has on local children.

Luxurious Auction Offerings

The festival continues to attract notable chefs and winemakers globally, featuring high-profile participants such as Chateau Montelena, Colgin, and Emeril Lagasse. This year’s auction included 52 exclusive lots, encompassing custom luxury vehicles, exceptional travel opportunities, private concerts, and outstanding wines. The most coveted item, a 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible, fetched an impressive $1.7 million, accompanied by a VIP experience at the upcoming Monterey Car Week.

Two auction lots each raised $1 million. One was a private concert and dinner with country music star Scotty McCreery, while the other provided a unique dining experience prepared by chef Angelo Auriana at the renowned Bleu Provence restaurant.

Among other memorable lots, "The Art of Time with Staglin and Panerai" sold for $1.6 million and included a six-night trip to Switzerland, a commemorative large-format bottle of Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon, and engraved luxury watches.

Commitment to Local Children

An additional fundraising campaign, "Fund the Future," contributed over $5.8 million to NCEF, which supports various initiatives like early learning, healthcare, and mental health. Since the festival’s founding, approximately 350,000 local children have benefited from the efforts, with NCEF serving 55% of children in Collier County.

The date for next year’s festival is already set to take place from January 30 to February 1, 2026, continuing the tradition of philanthropy in the community.

For more information about the Naples Winter Wine Festival, visit their official site: Naples Winter Wine Festival.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

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