The Northeast Indiana Local Food Network is bringing back its popular Local Food Throwdown fundraiser and chef competition on October 5, 2026, at The Pearl Event Center in downtown Fort Wayne.
Northeast Indiana Local Food Network news release:
Northeast Indiana Local Food Network Hosts Annual Local Food Throwdown Fundraiser & Competition
Fort Wayne, Indiana (September 13, 2026) – The Northeast Indiana Local Food Network is bringing back its popular Local Food Throwdown fundraiser and chef competition on Monday, Oct. 5, at The Pearl Event Center in downtown Fort Wayne. Tickets are on sale now through Friday, Oct. 2, or until sold out.
The Local Food Throwdown celebrates the best ingredients from regional farms and the talented culinary leaders who prepare them. Ticket sales directly support the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network’s mission – funding local food hub development, Farm to School programs, healthy food access, and the organizational capacity needed to sustain our nonprofit’s work across the region.
Guests will enjoy dishes from nine of Northeast Indiana’s finest chefs, including three appetizers, three entrées, and three desserts made with fresh local ingredients. Attendees will vote for their favorite creations to crown each course’s champion.
Featured 2026 Chefs:
- Alex Romines-Ditton | Copper Spoon
- Andrew Brazis | Basted
- Dawn Folsom | Hawt Mess Express
- Jennifer Esterline | E-Brewing Company
- Jim Huffman | Walnut Hill Catering and Events
- Kyle Barva | Rune Restaurant
- Kyle Mares | Amore – Italian Steak and Seafood
- Mary Brames | Kanela
- Tony West | The Oyster Bar
Gluten-free and plant-based options will be served during each course for guests who indicate their dietary preferences when purchasing tickets. The event bar will also highlight beverages crafted with local ingredients.
Guests will enjoy an incredible evening hosted by returning event emcee Pat Hoffmann of WANE 15, and bid on unique local food, artisan items, and exclusive experiences in our silent auction!
“This event highlights the powerful connection between our local farmers and talented chefs,” said Karen Petersen, Executive Director of the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network. “Every ticket directly powers our daily work to nourish families, empower regional growers, and strengthen our local food system.”
The 2026 Local Food Throwdown is sponsored by Galecki Financial Management, 3 Rivers Federal Credit Union and Miller Scales & Food Machines. Additional sponsorships remain available.
Tickets are $150 per person. Gather eight friends and request to sit together to enjoy this fun & delicious event! Proceeds benefit Northeast Indiana Local Food Network, a 501(c)(3) organization.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
- What: 2026 Local Food Throwdown
- When: Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Where: The Pearl Event Center, 228 W. Main Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802
- Tickets & Info
About Northeast Indiana Local Food Network
The Northeast Indiana Local Food Network collaborates with partners across Northeast Indiana and beyond to cultivate a resilient local food system that connects our communities, reduces food insecurity, creates prosperity for our farms, and nourishes all our families.Click here for more information about our programs and impact visit.
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