Fall Philanthropy
DIFFA Dallas reboots famed foodie fundraiser into full-on festival
One of Dallas’ best-loved fundraisers is about to get a whole lot bigger. For its eighth iteration on October 7, DIFFA’s Burgers & Burgundy will move to a much larger location, and its format will extend beyond the usual food-and-wine sampling.
The famed party outgrew its luxurious backyard locale (aka Karen and Bill Seanor’s home), so it’s headed for the Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge, giving it a more outdoor festival feel. Themed DIFFAcella, the event also will feature live art installations by Jason Reynaga, Anthony Gonzales, and Matthew Brinston, as well as three caricature artists and a henna artist.
As for what’s on the menu, John Tesar is still the celebrity chef in charge. He will task his talented colleagues, local and national, with serving their best burger sliders and choosing accompanying Burgundy wines. Don’t like wine? You can drink beer or a specialty cocktail.
Also expect entertainment by Repel the Robot and The Please, Please Me, and a Pawkitecture auction featuring modern dog houses built by local architecture and design firms. Proceeds directly benefit DIFFA/Dallas.
Following tradition, Burgers & Burgundy also serves as the reveal of the Style Council Ambassadors, who help raise awareness about the organization’s cause. Ambassadors donate their time to AIDS service organizations to become better educated about those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. The council also is crucial in aiding DIFFA/Dallas fundraising efforts.
“We are excited to continue the momentum this one-of-a-kind dining experience has created for the charity, where our supporters can have a wonderful time, knowing their donations are going to agencies and people with the greatest need,” says event chair Aileen Roach in a release. Longtime DIFFA supporter Simona Beal is this year’s honorary chair.
“It’s been an honor to work with DIFFA/Dallas for eight years to put on this event and watch it grow year after year,” Tesar adds.
The event will run from 6:30-9:30 pm. Tickets for Burgers & Burgundy are $150 per person and can be purchased at the DIFFA/Dallas website or by calling 214-748-8580.
