Art Meets Wine in the High Desert

Art, wine and a good cause: Mark your calendars for May 4

This May, Art Meets Wine in the High Desert returns to Sunriver for its sixth year — and the 2024 event promises to be better than ever.

A fundraiser sponsored by the Sunriver Women’s Club, Art Meets Wine in the High Desert combines wine tastings with local artist demonstrations, live music, food, a wine wall and an online auction.

“That unique combination of activities is what makes Art Meets Wine so popular,” said Kendra Schreiner, co-chair of the 2024 event. “In fact, 100% of those we surveyed last year said they would attend again. Still, we know there’s always room for improvement, so we’ve made some changes this year while keeping what our guests love most.”

Here’s what you can expect from Art Meets Wine in the High Desert in 2024:
·       A single in-person gathering: Rather than choosing from multiple sessions and live or virtual tastings, all guests will gather at the same time and same place this year: Saturday, May 4, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the SHARC.
·       More variety in wineries: At least 10 wineries will showcase their offerings at the 2024 event. That includes the first winery from California, along with new and returning favorites from Oregon and Washington.
·       New social hour: Wine tastings will conclude at 7 p.m. but the fun will keep going for another hour. Guests are encouraged to grab a complimentary glass of wine or purchase another glass or bottle to enjoy with live music, which will continue until 8 p.m.
·       Popular homegrown music: Providing the entertainment this year will be Rigby Pass, a central Oregon band that plays rock-and-roll hits from the 1950s through the 2000s — reimagined with a twist of blues, jazz and alternative rock.
·       Return of food favorites: La Paella Bend will be back with an expanded menu offering. Sunriver’s own Hot Lava Bakery will return as well, offering a selection of special desserts.
·       Local artist encounters: Several talented members of the Artists’ Gallery Sunriver will be creating special pieces just for the event. Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to chat with the artists about their work, watch live demonstrations and purchase artwork.
·       Chance to bid on goodies and experiences: Guests can view and bid on dozens of special online auction items, ranging from wine, dining and lodging experiences to outdoor activities, artwork and more. Auction items will be available to view at artmeetswine.org beginning in March, with items added through April 30.

All proceeds from Art Meets Wine in the High Desert go to the Sunriver Women’s Club Philanthropy Program. It provides grants to nonprofit organizations in south Deschutes County addressing food insecurity, child safety, shelter, education and youth development. Since 1999, the program has granted more than $970,000 to worthy causes, with the goal of building a strong network of services improving the lives of people in the community.

“Last year, Art Meets Wine raised $20,000 to support our neighbors in need, and with an even greater turnout in 2024, we can do even more good,” Schreiner said. “Where else can you sample so many delicious wines and foods, have fun with friends and support our local community all at the same time?”

Tickets for Art Meets Wine in the High Desert go on sale March 1 at artmeetswine.org. Ticket prices are all-inclusive, covering wine tastings, food, entertainment and a complimentary glass of wine for each guest.
For the most up-to-date information about the event — including featured wineries, auction items and more — follow “Art Meets Wine” on Facebook and Instagram.