Imagine an evening spent dancing to live music by the Swannanoa River and enjoying delicious food paired with a glass of fine wine or beer. Pretty fun, right? Now in its 17th year, MANNA FoodBank’s Blue Jean Ball will take place on Saturday, June 4, from 7–11 p.m. Giving back doesn’t get much better than this.
“The funds raised from the event sponsors, ticket sales, and the ‘notso- silent auction’ provided for over 287,000 meals in 2015,” says Alisa Hixon, of MANNA FoodBank. “This year, we hope to raise the bar to 325,000 meals provided by the Blue Jean Ball.”
More than 25 local restaurants will serve up small plates and desserts. Grab a drink from the dozens of wine and beer selections and enjoy a full evening of entertainment. Guests are encouraged to dress according to the theme, which this year is “Fire and Ice.” Fire is the passion to end hunger that drives volunteers and funders to support MANNA and the ice is the determination to get it done.
American Idol contestant Jesse Barry, a long-time Asheville resident, will be backed by “The Heat,” a powerhouse of nine local musicians under the direction of Jason DeCristofaro. Asheville-based choreographer Christine Garden will lead her ten-member dance troupe with a piece that also reflects the event’s theme.
Tickets ($75) are expected to sell out, so advance purchase is recommended. This event is open to adults 21 and over as wine and beer are included with admission. Shuttles will take guests to the event at MANNA from designated parking at the WNC Nature Center. For more information, including tickets, visit mannafoodbank.org or call 828.299.3663.
