In just a few short weeks The Frankie Lemmon Foundation is hosting the third annual National Truffle Festival, here in Asheville, North Carolina.

The Frankie Lemmon School in Raliegh, NC has been providing life-changing education and support to Special Needs children for over forty years. Their foundation hosts an annual fundraiser called the Triangle Wine Experience. This weekend-long event is a vibrant food and wine festival that celebrates local chefs and winemakers, as well as bringing in over 1 million dollars in revenue for the school. What The Frankie Lemmon Foundation has done for the school, as well as the community, is an amazing achievement.

A few years ago, the North American Truffle Growers Association met with the Frankie Lemmon Foundation to glean from their experience and success in putting on such an event, birthing the National Truffle Festival in Asheville. The festival continues to raise money for the school, but also raises national awareness for the North American Truffle Association, a win-win for both organizations.

Western North Carolina has an ever-growing truffle industry, with specialty farms throughout the region, making Asheville the perfect place to host this destination event. Growing truffles is a long-suffering art, that takes patience and a strong understanding of the process. Area specialists are putting on seminars throughout the weekend to educate those interested in farming, or just learning about, truffles. And yes, there will be food. LOTS of exquisite dishes inspired by the star of the festival… the glorious truffle.

Whether you are a lover of food, wine, travel or horticulture, The National Truffle Festival is a brilliant culinary celebration taking place this February 23rd – 25th.

Some of the events include:  The Secret Life of Truffles, Whiskey Cocktail Seminar, Gourmet Truffle and Wine Dinners hosted by top Asheville restaurants, 3-Course Truffle Brunch, Wine Tastings, and the Chef’s Gala. This is an opportunity to learn from truffle specialists and enjoy the flavors of award-winning chefs, including Ashley Christensen from Poole’s Diner and Beasley’s Chicken and Honey. The National Truffle Festival offers a true “Bon Vivant” experience!

I’m fortunate to be attending the festival this year, and can’t wait to share photos and recipes from the weekend. I also look forward to taking in the earthy aromas, rich flavors, fine wines, and shroomy-liciousness.

If you are still looking for the perfect Valentine Surprise for your loved-one, why not come to Asheville and enjoy American grown gourmet truffles in all their glory.

Tickets and weekend packages are AVAILABLE HERE.

…I’ll save you some truffle risotto!

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