The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), one of the nation’s premier philanthropic wine events, is celebrating a milestone year as it marks its 21st annual Destin Charity Wine Auction, presented by the Jumonville Family, April 24–25, 2026. Proceeds from the weekend benefit children in need across Northwest Florida through DCWAF’s 16 partner children’s charities. In 2025 alone, the foundation donated $3.1 million following one of its most successful auctions to date.
A limited number of patron packages are on sale now at dcwaf.org/tickets. Sponsorship opportunities are also available by contacting DCWAF at info@dcwaf.org.
This year’s celebration promises an exceptional lineup of world-class vintners and celebrity chefs, hosted by philanthropic couples throughout the local community. The 2026 vintner roster includes owners and winemakers from Maralllisa Allegrini Group, Cardinale and Lokoya, Domaine de la Clos Chapelle, Doubleback, Forman, Jarvis Estate, Phifer Pavitt, Pott Estate Wines, Revana Wine Portfolio, Roy Estate, Thompson 31Fifty, VGS Chateau Potelle and more, with additional participants to be announced.
The weekend begins Friday, April 24, with the highly anticipated Patron Dinner Experience. Each year, these intimate dinners are hosted in some of the Emerald Coast’s most exquisite homes and restaurants, offering guests the rare opportunity to enjoy innovative cuisine paired with extraordinary wines while connecting with fellow wine enthusiasts. Each patron dinner directly benefits one of DCWAF’s partner children’s charities.
The main event takes place at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 25, with the Reserve Tasting and Live Auction held under an air-conditioned tent at Grand Boulevard Sandestin Town Center. Guests will enjoy distinctive wines from internationally acclaimed vintners paired with cuisine curated by top local restaurants, culminating in a high-energy live auction featuring rare wines, unforgettable travel experiences and one-of-a-kind offerings.
The Destin Charity Wine Auction is held in conjunction with the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, also taking place at Grand Boulevard Sandestin Town Center that weekend. The festival showcases hundreds of premium wines, spirits and culinary creations, with proceeds benefiting the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.
For tickets, full event details and updated lists of participating chefs and vintners, visit dcwaf.org/auction.
Destin Student Earns People’s Choice Honor at National Art Museum
Eleanor Backes, a third-grade student at Destin Elementary School, was selected from hundreds of youth submissions to have her artwork showcased at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs, Mississippi — and came home with top honors.
The exhibition, held in December, featured student works inspired by renowned watercolor artist Walter Anderson. During the showcase, museum visitors were invited to vote on their favorite pieces, and Eleanor’s artwork was awarded the People’s Choice Award.
Her winning piece is a silk screen print with acrylic, reflecting both creativity and technical skill well beyond her years. Eleanor has been studying art for the past two years with Destin local artist Mrs. Rita Gwen, originally from Mississippi, whose guidance has helped nurture Eleanor’s growing passion for art.
A proud moment for Eleanor, her family and the Destin community, the recognition highlights the talent being cultivated in local classrooms — and proves that even young artists can make a big impression.
Rotary Club of Destin Announces Grant Funding Opportunity for Local Nonprofits
The Rotary Club of Destin invites local nonprofit organizations to apply for grant funding as part of its ongoing mission to create positive change and strengthen the local community.
As a service organization made up of professional men and women, the Rotary Club of Destin is committed to humanitarian service, high ethical standards, and fostering peace and goodwill both locally and globally. Through annual fundraisers — including the popular Cajun Crawfish Bash — the club raises funds to reinvest directly into programs and initiatives that align with its priority areas and community needs. “This grant opportunity is about more than funding,” the Rotary Club of Destin President Bekah Wagner said. “It’s an opportunity to partner with organizations doing meaningful work and to expand our collective impact by working together to address critical issues in our community.”
Grant applications will be reviewed based on criteria established by the Rotary Club of Destin Board of Directors. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply and share how their programs support and strengthen the local community.
The application deadline is Feb. 13, 2026.
For eligibility requirements and to apply, visit:
https://forms.gle/NDyc7DCeMy4jkmjR7
The Rotary Club of Destin represents over 55 business men and women who are committed to “Service Above Self” and whose mission is to positively change lives through service…across the street and around the world with emphasis on eradicating hunger and supporting education in our community and internationally. The Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at 7:15 a.m. at Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. The Rotary Satellite Club of Destin Sunset meets on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at O’Quigley’s in Destin.
Roy Warner Memorial Scholarship Applications Open
Frances Roy Agency is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 Roy Warner Memorial Scholarship, an annual award honoring the life and legacy of Roy Warner, a craftsman whose integrity, work ethic and pride in skilled labor continue to inspire future generations.
The scholarship supports students pursuing trade-based education, including construction, mechanical, industrial, medical, creative, entrepreneurial and other vocational fields. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors, graduates or current trade school students who demonstrate commitment to their chosen trade and submit a personal essay reflecting their passion and the values Roy Warner embodied.
“Our team pours so much heart into this scholarship because Roy Warner wasn’t just my grandfather; his life shaped the values that built this agency,” said Shantelle Dedicke, founder and president of Frances Roy Agency.
One recipient will receive a financial award toward trade school education, selected by a committee of agency team members and Warner family representatives.
Applications are due April 15, 2026, and should be submitted to hello@francesroy.com. The recipient will be announced May 23, 2026, Roy Warner’s birthday.
More information is available at www.francesroy.com.
