Lexington’s premier food fundraiser
F.E.A.S.T. 2026
Food Equity & Access Sustains Tomorrow
- May 15, 2026
- Fasig-Tipton, Lexington
- 25+ celebrated chefs
- Live Kentucky music
An evening of food, fellowship, and fundraising for the future of FoodChain
$250K
2026 goal
25+
Celebrated chefs
2
Live bands
1.45M
Meals since 2011
The story
What is F.E.A.S.T.?
F.E.A.S.T. (Food Equity & Access Sustains Tomorrow) began as a collaboration between Chef Ouita Michel and fellow chefs from across the country who met through the James Beard Foundation’s Chef Bootcamp for Policy and Change — united by a shared belief that food can drive social good.
What started as a small gathering of passionate chefs has grown into FoodChain’s signature event, uniting culinary leaders, farmers, and food lovers for a night that celebrates Kentucky’s vibrant food culture and the collective action needed to ensure everyone has access to fresh, healthy food.
Today, F.E.A.S.T. brings together more than 25 celebrated chefs, crafting Kentucky Proud ingredients into unforgettable bites with cocktails and mocktails, wine, bourbon, and local beer — set to live music and big Lexington energy.
Why it matters
More than a night of great food
At FoodChain, we believe access to fresh, local food is fundamental to good health. F.E.A.S.T. isn’t just a celebration — it’s a catalyst. Funds raised directly support our Food is Medicine initiatives, which connect healthy, Kentucky-grown meals to those who need them most through hospitals, recovery centers, schools, and community partners.
$250,000
Our 2026 goal — expanding Food is Medicine, building capacity in our teaching and processing kitchen, growing fresh food access through the Neighborhood Green Grocery, and empowering people to cook and eat for better health.
The lineup
F.E.A.S.T. 2026 Chef Lineup
We’re thrilled to announce the chefs joining us this year — more than 25 culinary leaders from Kentucky and across the country, cooking for one cause.
Live music
A Night to Remember
In addition to memorable food and drink, your F.E.A.S.T. experience will feature Kentucky musical acts curated in partnership with Rebel Rebel out of Berea. Together, we’re highlighting homegrown talent and bringing the energy of Kentucky’s music scene to the event stage.
Yapa!
Yapa! is a Louisville-based, high-energy Latin band blending cumbia, Andean folk, and funk into irresistible, dance-driven grooves. With roots spanning Ecuador, Mexico, the Canary Islands, and the United States, their sound reflects the richness of the immigrant experience — bringing together rhythm, culture, and community.
Joslyn & The Sweet Compression
A Lexington-based soul and funk powerhouse known for electrifying performances and deeply rooted grooves. Fronted by the dynamic Joslyn Hampton, the band blends classic soul, R&B, and funk with a modern edge — keeping the dance floor alive all night long.
Looking back
F.E.A.S.T. Through the Years
With thanks
Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors
F.E.A.S.T. wouldn’t be possible without the commitment of these sponsors who believe in the power of food to build a healthier future.
Join us
Be part of F.E.A.S.T. 2026
Every ticket and sponsorship fuels FoodChain’s year-round work to connect people with local ingredients through education, workforce training, and direct food access.
Attend
Join us May 15 at Fasig-Tipton for an unforgettable evening of food, drink, and live music — all for a healthier Kentucky.
Sponsor
Partner with us for high-visibility recognition while funding FoodChain’s mission to increase access to fresh, local food for everyone.