In the News
August 30, 2012
Kingston’s favourite garden party Sept. 9
Fare For Friends, which is hosted by the United Way, is now in its 18th year. During its run, it’s become known as Kingston’s favourite garden party.
This year’s event takes place Sept. 9 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Vimy Officers’ Mess at CFB Kingston.
“United Way Fare For Friends has been a sold-out event for the past 18 years, since it started,” said Bhavana Varma, president of the United Way serving Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington. “It is a popular event, featuring the area’s best restaurants, fine Canadian wineries and breweries, live music, an exciting auction ‚ all under a large tent at one of the most beautiful locations in Kingston.”
Varma said the event has a “uniquely Kingston flavour” and offers a relaxed afternoon with fine food, wines, beer and the company of friends.
Throughout the day, local chefs create culinary masterpieces with local produce wherever possible, while wineries serve up a variety of fine wines and local breweries serve specialty beers.
A team of many volunteers has been working hard since January to make the event a success.
There are nearly 30 restaurants participating in Fare for Friends this year, including newcomers Days on Front Restaurant, Geneva Crepe Bistro, Greek Town Grill and Take-Out, Mio Gelato, Pug Iron Barbeque, Red House, Seed to Sausage and Sir John’s Public House.
“All restaurants donate their time and food, and all offer a fine dining experience, creative creations and delicious tasting plates,” said Varma.
Fare for Friends is the largest fundraising event of the United Way. Last year, $100,000 was raised. Since its beginnings, the event has raised over $1 million.
“The United Way provides support to local programs,” said Varma. “Last year we were able to help 85,000 people in Kingston and area.”
United Way identifies local issues, seeks out root causes and invests funds in identified areas of need. The money raised from this event goes to the 2012 campaign and is distributed to local programs that support children, individuals and families in KFL&A.
Varma said the event is one of the best events she has had the pleasure of organizing.
“Volunteers and staff work hard to ensure that participants have a very enjoyable experience,” said Varma.
“It is my personal favourite event of all time,” said Varma. “And guests know they are helping a very important charity.”
Local artists and businesses donate silent and live auction items for the event. Items include spa packages, clothes, jewelry, and dinner and entertainment packages.
“The list goes on,” said Varma.
Tickets for the event, which are $150 each, sell quickly, said Varma. Order tickets by calling 613-542-2674 ext. 0 or by emailing campaign@unitedwaykfla.ca.
Visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca to view a full list of participants.
Source: Katrina Geenevasen, Kingston This Week
Leave a Reply