This event is about more than a meal—it is about mission. Our purpose is simple yet powerful: to Revive Communities through Food. That means using food not only to nourish, but to connect, restore, and empower. We believe that sharing a table can bridge divides, strengthen relationships, and spark change. From the soil that yields the harvest, to the hands that prepare it, to the hearts that give in support, every element of this event works toward building a future where local farms thrive, neighbors are cared for, and everyone has a place to belong.

At the Harvest Seed Dinner, guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu crafted by local chefs who are passionate about seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. These chefs are more than culinary artists—they are advocates for sustainable food systems, champions of local farms, and storytellers who bring the harvest to life on every plate.

Chef Rival is a culinary competition where talented local chefs go head-to-head, crafting bold dishes using ingredients sourced from North Carolina farmers and growers. The event celebrates the richness of our state’s agricultural heritage while showcasing how fresh, local food can nourish both people and communities.

2026 Winner: Chef Kyle Fletcher, GlassHouse Kitchen

2025 Winner: Pitmaster Mat Griner, Southern Q BBQ

2024 Winner: Chef Luke Owens, Native Fine Dinner

2023 Winner: Caitlin Hutsell, Larema Coffee House