WineFest 2020: Cabbyshack
Fri Feb 7, 7:00 PM - Sat Feb 8, 7:00 PM

On Friday, Feb. 7, the Theatre’s historic stage will be expanded to seat more than 275 for the elegant Wine Pairing. The multi-course menu, created and catered by Mise En Place chef Marty Blitz, will feature delectable small plates expertly paired with exquisite wines. Tickets are $275 for individuals and $500 for a pair.

On Saturday, Feb. 8, a two-tiered Wine Tasting from 7:00-10:00pm invites you to taste dozens of boutique wines and sample favorite fare from Tampa’s top independent restaurants. You’ll also have the opportunity to bid on premium silent auction items representing Bay area retailers, restaurants, services and attractions.

** The Premium Tasting starts at 7:00pm and features exclusive wines for a limited audience. Tickets are $100 ($90 for Tampa Theatre Members)
** Grand Tasting ticket holders gain entry at 8:00pm, and tickets are $65 ($55 for Members)

And though the theme may be silly, WineFest’s purpose is most serious: now in its 18th year, WineFest is the landmark theatre’s biggest annual fundraiser. Event chair James Douglass notes that the nonprofit Tampa Theatre, which was saved from demolition in the mid-‘70s, is “a Cinderella story. Outta nowhere.”

“Now, it takes money – like, Al Czervik money – to support the 93-year-old movie palace’s ongoing restoration and community programming,” Douglass says. “We don’t need total consciousness… we need cash. But we’re one of the world’s most beautifully preserved major motion picture palaces, so we’ve got that goin’ for us, which is nice.”

Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite character or come in a Caddyshack-inspired costumes.

Tickets go on sale THIS Friday, Aug. 16, for Tampa Theatre Members and on Friday, Aug. 30 for the public at the historic Franklin Street Box Office and online.