Final auction lots set for SWFL Wine & Food Fest

Southwest Florida Children’s Charities Inc. announced the final slate of live auction lots for the 2026 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest, adding a mix of high-end culinary experiences, luxury travel and one-of-a-kind philanthropic moments to the annual fundraiser.

The event will take place Feb. 28 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs, with proceeds benefiting Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. Organizers said anticipation is building for the Grand Tasting and Live Auction, which follows an earlier announcement featuring exclusive winery trips, private tastings with acclaimed vintners and VIP access to concerts, golf tournaments, yacht charters and Formula 1 races.

The newly announced lots continue that theme, offering bidders intimate dining experiences with well-known chefs, private getaways and rare opportunities unavailable to the general public.

Among the highlights is an evening for eight guests hosted by NOSH owner and Chef Todd Johnson, paired with wines selected by vintner and Chef Dustin Vallette. Another lot offers 10 guests a five-night stay on a private island in Belize, complete with a professional chef, concierge, housekeeper and boat captain.

Culinary-focused offerings also include a private four-course dinner with wine for 80 guests created by chef Harold Balink at Harold’s restaurant in south Fort Myers, along with multicourse dinners paired with wine for smaller groups at Old Vines Supper Club in East Naples and in private homes catered by chefs and groups, such as Benjamin Voisin of Black Salt Culinary, Crave Culinaire by Chef Brian Roland and Paradise Catering.

Travel experiences range from a three-night stay for two couples at Seven Stones Guest House above the Meadowood Resort in Napa Valley, including private tours, reserve tastings, dining experiences, car service and airfare, to a two-night stay for two couples at The Perry Hotel in North Naples. That Naples-area package also includes dinner at Tigress, a private helicopter tour of Useppa and a complimentary weekend Porsche rental.

Additional auction items include original artwork by the 2026 featured child artist, Remi Roland, mentored by Southwest Florida artist Rachel Pierce, and the return of the popular Pass-the-Hat call, where guests contribute surprise donations such as scholarships, jewelry and trips.

This year’s Fund-A-Cause will support a new Center for Intellectual & Development Disabilities, an initiative of Lee Health and Golisano Children’s Hospital designed to expand integrated services and resources for children, adults and families across Southwest Florida.

Southwest Florida Children’s Charities said its signature Wine & Food Fest has raised more than $32 million over the past 16 years to support pediatric health initiatives throughout the region.