The Austin chapter of the International Special Events Society invites you to help Keep Austin Beautiful by attending the CulinART at the Renaissance Hotel (9721 Arboretum Blvd., 343-2626) tonight. The event features local celebrity chefs creating an artistic four-course meal while diners watch from the audience. There will also be a live and silent auction and dancing to the Nash Hernandez Orchestra. Tickets are available online at www.isesaustin.com or www.keepaustinbeautiful.org; Thursday, March 1, 7pm.
Get a sneak preview of the California and Texas Mexican-food menu items at the new Juan’s Mexicali Cafe (9600 I-35) in the grove at South Park Meadows. The preview party benefits the Center for Child Protection, and contributions and/or gift cards are suggested; Saturday, March 3, 5-9pm.
Local chocoholics will be in heaven this weekend at the second annual Austin Chocolate Festival (www.austinchocolatefestival.com) at the scenic Tuscan Hall (16221 Crystal Hills Dr.). The delicious three-day event is packed with tastings and samplings of the chocolate products from area businesses, chocolate demonstrations, and competitions. Friday night, there will be a gala dinner and auction benefiting the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure with food and wines from Bird’s Creek Catering, Fat Turkey Chocolate Company, and Flat Creek Estate. Tickets for the gala are $70 and are still available online; $20 day tickets to the festival can be purchased at the door; Friday through Sunday, March 2-4, 10am-4pm (and 7-10pm on Friday).
This article appears in March 2 • 2007.