Good food, good wine and good times for a good cause. That is what Toast and Taste, an enchanting and charitable evening hosted by Wildwood Park for the Arts, entails. Time well spent at this annual autumn fundraiser directly supports Wildwood’s programs in arts education, theater performances and nature conservation.
Every year, Toast and Taste brings West Little Rock together to mix and mingle with at least 60 different wine and whiskey tastings, live music and more than a dozen local restaurants — all while getting to gaze at the work of an Arkansas artist.
“The park itself is a beautiful backdrop for patrons to make it an evening to remember, and best of all, it's an opportunity for us to connect with others and for others to connect to Wildwood,” says executive director Bevan Keating.
Established in 1991, Wildwood Park welcomes visitors year-round to relish the lush beauty of its botanical gardens. Guests can wander through the serene Asian Woodland Garden, witness the beauty of Swan Lake and Daffodil Plaza and stroll the 10-acre Richard C. Butler Arboretum. Beyond the stunning landscape, the park also features a large 625-seat performing arts center for live theatre productions.
“We often say there's always something happening at Wildwood Park for the Arts, and we hope that fundraisers like Toast and Taste can help us continue our mission, which is to enrich the lives of Arkansans by creating community through nature and the arts,” says Christina Muñoz, a ballerina, singer and the park’s director of communication.
This year’s Toast and Taste on Nov. 6 will debut a brand-new silent auction alongside the return of 3D sculpture artist Tracy Rivers. Guests will savor a rich culinary lineup of local, beloved eateries from last year, like YaYa's, Blue Ember, Sullivan's Steakhouse and Chuy's, plus newcomers Shawarma, Raiz Eatery and Mizuki Sushi. Set to the smooth jazz sounds of Pat Wallis and Rex Bell, it’s the perfect night for dining and dancing.
For an enhanced experience, VIP tickets unlock early entry and exclusive access to the outdoor pavilion, which provides private catering by Cache Restaurant and live entertainment.
Clinking glasses and full plates, under the stars, surrounded by community and art. Wildwood's Toast and Taste is a snapshot of what makes Arkansas the Natural State: a never-ending supply of genuine beauty and talent.
For tickets, visit wildwoodpark.org.
“The park itself is a beautiful backdrop for patrons to make it an evening to remember, and best of all, it's an opportunity for us to connect with others and for others to connect to Wildwood."