Haute Event: Festival Del Sole Kicks Off This Week

Nina-Kotova-and-Vadym-Kholodenko-perform-at-Opus-One-at-Festival-Del-Sole-2013-CREDIT-Susana-Bates-for-Drew-Altizer-Photography
Nina Kotova and Vadym Kholodenko perform at Opus One at Festival Del Sole 2013 Credit Susana Bates for Drew Altizer Photography

That time of summer here to be whisked away to a magical place where the best of music, dance, theater, wellness, food and wine come together.  Festival Del Sole is the quintessential music and lifestyle festival that offers the finest artistic experiences that wine country has to offer.

The 9th edition of the festival runs from Thursday, July 10th through Sunday, July 20th in the heart of Napa Valley, and it kicks off with an exclusive Founders Dinner hosted by Claire and Steven Stull. The festival then officially opens to the public on Friday with a performance by violinist Joshua Bell at Castello di Amorosa. Throughout the 10 day event, guests will be treated to the finest of classical music, jazz, opera and ballet with curated culinary, wine and wellness adventures and glamorous gala evenings featuring renowned artists and musicians. 

Meadowood Gala at Festival Del Sole 2013  Credit Moanalani Jeffrey Photography
Meadowood Gala at Festival Del Sole 2013 Credit Moanalani Jeffrey Photography

The Annual Gala at Meadowood Napa Valley,which includes an alfresco dinner, a live auction and a performance by the Concord Jazz All Stars and 10-time Grammy Award Winner and Cuban jazz legend Arturo Sandoval, is just one of the highlights of the festival. The crescendo will be the June 19th tribute to movie star Sophia Loren called “Bella Italia!” Hosted by Far Niente winery, the evening will be hosted by actress Whoopi Goldberg and will feature Loren’s son, the conductor Carlo Ponti who will debut his new Los Angles Virtuosi chamber orchestra.

Other must-attend events include  “A Taste of Napa”, which is a showcase around 70 Napa Valley wineries, food artisans and chefs; The Dance Gala featuring ballet sensation Polina Semionova and a patron dinner at the HALL St. Helena winery estate hosted by celebrated winemakers Craig and Kathryn Hall.

VIP Passes for the festival range from $700-$8,500 and offer ultimate Napa Valley insider access with Vintner’s Luncheons and Patron Dinners along with prime concert seating, VIP Lounge access and concierge service.

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