Carrie Underwood Helped Raise $4.2 Million For Festival Napa Valley

For the last 17 years the ten best days of summer take place in California wine country. Every year, the region renowned for its wine offers the ultimate pairing of food, philanthropy, music, and culture for a great cause with Festival Napa Valley. There is something for everyone with more than 60 events held throughout the Napa Valley at estates, wineries, vineyards, and breathtaking outdoor spaces. Best of all, you'll be supporting arts education programs for local students while you sip and savor.

Opening Night Concert + Dinner

Festivities kicked off at Charles Krug Winery in St. Helena with international star Matteo Bocelli and award-winning Spanish violinist Francisco Fullana performing in concert with the Festival Orchestra Napa. Bocelli took audiences on a journey through some of the most beloved songs of all time, with Italian classics such as “Quando, Quando, Quando” and ballads like “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” The set included favorite opera arias and pop hits like “Fall on Me” and “Perfect Symphony,” as well as original compositions, including selections from his upcoming debut album and previously released singles, “Solo,” “Tempo,” and “Dimmi.”

After the performance concert-goers were treated to a moonlight dinner under the stars at Castello di Amorosa. Nestled in the heart of Calistoga, the mystical castle makes you feel like you are part of a fairy tale as you approach the winery. The exquisite wines, enchanting ambience, and delicious cuisine at Castello di Amorosa made for the perfect ending to the opening night of the festival.

Taste of Napa

The piazza of the Grand Reserve at The Meritage Resort and Spa hosted this signature event, which featured more than 70 wineries, breweries, restaurants, and culinary artisans for an energized crowd. Audi was also on site for car enthusiasts to test drive their latest model. For those that preferred a slower pace for their day, they set up a “Ring Swing” to enjoy the great weather.

“Taste of Napa is more than just a celebration of food and wine; it’s a celebration of the community that makes it all possible. The event is a testament to the generosity and hospitality that the Napa Valley is known for, and a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors alike to come together and celebrate life's simple pleasures.” - Festival Napa Valley CEO Rick Walker

The music lineup for Taste of Napa kept the crowd moving with performances by Frost School of Music All-Stars, led by Shelly Berg, and Broadway classics from Festival favorite Christina Maxwell. The event also includes, games, activities, prizes, a Reserve Tasting Salon, and the chance to sample wines from the festival’s newest international wine partner, the Wines of Catalonia.

Arts for the Gala

While the music, food, and wine are certainly the main attractions, the festival also has a strong charitable aspect. The proceeds from Festival Napa Valley go toward supporting arts education and programming initiatives in Napa Valley. For the last few years Nickel & Nickel Winery has hosted the Arts for the Gala event, which was headlined in 2022 by Trisha Yearwood and set a record with $3.9 million raised. This year 8-time Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum artist Carrie Underwood was headlining and honoring the crowd with classics like, “Just a Dream,” “Blown Away,” and “Before He Cheats.” Thanks to Carrie, along with Emmy Award-winning auctioneer John Curley, and cuisine prepared by acclaimed Michelin-starred chef Charlie Palmer, the festival set a new record with $4.2 million raised. Donated auction lots included exclusive travel and wine offerings, cultural events, and luxury experiences.

Festival Napa Valley is the perfect blend of fun and charity. Whether you are a wine, food, and music lover or a philanthropist, this is an experience not to be missed. So mark your 2024 calendars for July 12 to 24 and get ready for a fabulous week in San Francisco Bay Area’s Napa Valley. Visit FestivalNapaValley.org to learn more.

About Festival Napa Valley

Festival Napa Valley celebrates music’s unmatched power to uplift and inspire. Napa Valley’s flagship festival presents international stars and emerging talent in free and affordable concerts in iconic venues, and through year-round presentations in the Bay Area and beyond. With inspiring education programs for youth and seniors, tuition-free academies for vocalists and instrumentalists, and scholarships for talented students, Festival Napa Valley plays a vital part in creating a thriving, healthy, and engaged community, fulfilling its mission to bring the arts to all. Festival Napa Valley is presented by Napa Valley Festival Association, a nonprofit organization governed by a dedicated board of prominent vintners and community leaders.