Palm Springs, CA

The highly anticipated Equality Wine & Food Fest is set to take over the stunning atrium of the Hyatt Palm Springs this weekend, bringing together wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and supporters of diversity in the world of wine. This premier event, which runs from June 5th to June 7th, will shine a spotlight on LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women-owned or produced wines, offering an exclusive opportunity to taste some of the finest, most unique wines from around the world. Here are the participating businesses.

A Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion

As the preeminent wine event of the year, Equality Wine & Food Fest offers a curated, invite-only experience that brings together renowned wineries, local gourmet restaurants, artisans, and community artists. The festival is a vibrant showcase of the immense diversity and depth of the wine industry, highlighting wines from underrepresented groups that are making a significant impact in the wine world.

This year’s event will feature more than 100 wines, offering an eclectic mix of bold reds, crisp whites, and exclusive varietals. Guests will have the chance to meet the winemakers behind the bottles, who will share their stories and insights into the wines they produce, all while raising awareness and celebrating the contributions of marginalized communities in the industry.

A VIP Experience

VIP guests will have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive perks, including early access to the Grand Tasting on Saturday, June 7th, and a Friday evening VIP Reception presented by Benovia Winery. This invite-only event will provide guests with an intimate setting to connect with wine industry leaders, vendors, and media, while enjoying premium wines and appetizers. The VIP experience also includes a special gift bag and access to retail and artist pop-up shops showcasing local lifestyle brands.

Special Events and Unique Pairings

The festival kicks off on Thursday, June 5th with a Wine Pairing Dinner presented by MacRostie Winery & Vineyards. Limited to just 25 guests, this exclusive event offers a multi-course dinner designed to pair perfectly with MacRostie’s award-winning wines. Guests will indulge in a carefully crafted menu curated by TRIO Executive Chef Gladis Lizarraga, featuring dishes like Herb-Crusted Duck Breast and Roasted Pork Tenderloin, each paired with a selection of MacRostie’s finest wines.

The main event, the Equality Wine & Food Fest Grand Tasting, takes place on Saturday, June 7th, from 12 PM to 4 PM. Guests will be able to discover a wide range of wines, sample gourmet small bites, and enjoy live entertainment. The event will feature more than 100 wines from a diverse array of producers, alongside gourmet food offerings from local restaurants. In addition to the tastings, guests will have the opportunity to engage with wine industry professionals, learn about the stories behind each bottle, and support LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women-owned businesses.

Auction Highlights

The event will also feature a Silent Auction and Live Auction, where attendees can bid on an array of exciting prizes, including exclusive trips, wine experiences, gift baskets, and rare bottles of wine. The highest bidders will walk away with unique items to complement their experience at the festival.

A Focus on Supporting Local and Diverse Communities

The Equality Wine & Food Fest is not just about exceptional wines and gourmet food; it’s about supporting and amplifying the voices of diverse and underrepresented communities within the wine industry. The festival’s mission is to create a platform where the stories and contributions of LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women winemakers can be celebrated and shared with a broader audience. By spotlighting these voices, the event strives to promote equity and inclusion within the wine world, while also offering attendees an unforgettable experience.

Tickets for the Grand Tasting and VIP experiences are available now, but spaces are limited. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Equality Wine & Food Fest website.

About Equality Wine & Food Fest

The Equality Wine & Food Fest is an annual celebration of diversity in the world of wine, food, and culture. Held in Palm Springs, CA, the event showcases the finest wines produced by LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women-owned wineries and features a wide variety of gourmet food, local artisans, and engaging entertainment. The festival’s mission is to promote inclusion and amplify the voices of underrepresented communities in the wine industry, while offering an exclusive and memorable experience for wine lovers and foodies alike.

Here is a link to their website: https://equalitywinefest.com/

Equality Wine Fest held at the Hyatt Palm Springs, Pictured