In 2024, Austin Entertains served as a cornerstone for our mission driven fundraising efforts by showcasing women in Austin’s vibrant culinary scene while raising vital funds for The Junior League of Austin (JLA). Austin Entertains highlights one of JLA’s Signature Impact Programs, Food In Tummies (FIT), a program dedicated to eliminating weekend hunger for children in the Austin community. On March 7, 2024, we were able to raise $88,000 for our signature programs, a 33% increase from last year.

Highlights:

• A full house and line up of 35 unique participants, 27 beverage sponsors, and 20+ VIP swag bag donors 
• JLA awarded three fellowships – 1st Place and $10,000 to 3 Small Plates, 2nd Place and $2,500 to Open Eye Chai, and a Professional Services Award to Teakeasy Tea (services valued at more than $12,000)
• Guests voted on and awarded their favorite dishes in the categories of Savory to Chef Krystyna Cibelli-Pettus, Sweet to Suga’s Cakery; Sip to Marisa Williams, Momo’s Micheladas; and Honorable Mention to Fer Candil, Paellas, Tapas and More. Each fan favorite recipient received an award valued at $500.

Learn more about our fundraising efforts, fellowship winners, and event reach below:

Thank you to all who sponsored our 2024 event! Austin Entertains is not just a culinary event; it is a celebration of women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship in the culinary arts.

Looking for photos from AE 2024? Check out the talented work of Primrose Wedding Photography. All of the event’s photos are available for download or purchase here!