JAMES BEARD AWARD-WINNING CHEF AND AUTHOR VIRGINIA WILLIS JOINS 3RD ANNUAL CAPE FEAR WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE – NC

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/25/26

Benefiting GLOW Academy and Spark Academy

The 3rd Annual Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience returns April 15–18, 2026,

featuring special guest, acclaimed James Beard Award-winning chef and cookbook author Virginia Willis. The multi-day epicurean celebration serves as a key annual fundraiser for Beacon Education, supporting the Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW Academy) and Spark Academy.

Chef Willis, a classically trained French chef and Georgia native based in Atlanta, is known nationally for her expertise in Southern cuisine. She is an author of multiple cookbooks, including the James Beard Award Winning Lighten Up, Y’all, and has appeared on national television programs including, Food Network, Martha Stewart Living, and CBS This Morning. Her work celebrates the intersection of refined technique and Southern culinary traditions, earning her recognition as one of the South’s most respected culinary voices.

The Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience kicks off on Wednesday, April 15, with intimate community dinners hosted at local residences and select Wilmington restaurants. Willis will headline a multi-course Celebrity Chef Dinner on Friday, April 17, showcasing her signature modern Southern cuisine. The weekend culminates on Saturday, April 18, with the Grand Tasting and Grand Auction at GLOW Academy, where standout local restaurants and renowned wineries from around the world will offer curated tasting experiences for guests and Chef Willis will be autographing her cookbooks and providing samples of her Southern culinary creations.

The Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience is Beacon Education’s signature, multi-day epicurean fundraiser

benefiting GLOW Academy and Spark Academy. Now in its third year, the event brings together renowned

chefs, celebrated winemakers, and community supporters to celebrate the power of education. Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets for Community Dinners and the Grand Tasting and Grand Auction are available. Event details and ticket information can be found at https://capefearwineandfood.com