The Bower Center for the Arts is excited to announce our 2nd annual fundraising event for adults to enjoy an evening out while supporting the Bower Center’s mission and programs. The Art of Pairing – Bourbon & Blues, will be held on Saturday, October 19 from 7 PM – 9:30 PM in the beautiful & historic Bower Center for the Arts. 

This event will be a fun, interactive evening offering Bourbon tastings, gourmet food, art, and a blues club atmosphere with live music by Americana and blues singer/songwriter, David Starr with Erik Stucky.  Check out David with John Oates & Jim Lauderdale HERE!

The evening will feature guided tastings of Virginia bourbons, specialty bourbon cocktails, live music and a gourmet menu by Neal Agee, featuring brisket & roasted turkey by Chapel Creek Farms. Guests will also have an opportunity to take a memorable photo in our photo booth and participate in our silent auction featuring an assortment of bourbons and handcrafted works of art!  Tickets are $65/individual & $120/couple with 100 ticket maximum.

NEW this year is a special VIP Ticket offering an intimate space for VIP ticket holders only. In addition to the food, live music & silent auction, this ticket includes the opportunity for special bourbon pours, crafted cocktails, music and party favor in a Speakeasy atmosphere. The VIP section is limited to 40 tickets and are only available as an individual purchase of $75/each. (No couple discount available)

According to Executive Director, Susan Martin, "We are excited that this year's event emphasizes a celebration of local products, featuring bourbons crafted by regional distilleries and gourmet dishes highlighting locally sourced ingredients. This focus on local products not only enriches the tasting experience but also supports the community's artisans and producers. The event showcases the vibrant local culture, pairing the best of regional flavors with live blues music, creating an immersive, community-driven experience that aligns with the Bower Center’s mission of supporting the arts and local talent."

Bourbon Tastings will include the following:

Bowman Brothers Small Batch - Fredericksburg, VA
Brady Distillery Accomplice Bourbon - Roanoke, VA
Ironclad Small Batch - Newport News, VA
Ragged Branch Distillery Signature Bourbon - Charlottesville, VA

Visit bowercenter.org to purchase tickets or sign up to volunteer!