The EPL Books and Cooks Gala Recap
We Partied for a Purpose!
On Saturday, Oct. 19, the Edmonton community came together for a night of food, fun, and fundraising at the 2024 EPL Books and Cooks Gala. And, boy, did we have a blast! The event was a success raising over $70,000 towards our Cook Up a Story Summer Camps, and we're still grinning from ear to ear thinking about all the spectacular moments we shared with our guests.
Help Us Achieve Our Goal of $100,000!
A Taste of the Fun
If you missed this year’s gala, you missed out on some serious culinary delights! Our guests indulged in a variety of gourmet food stations, each featuring a local chef's signature dish. We were so fortunate to have the opportunity to share the great talents of Chef Olivares, Chef Lal and Chef Cocco in our Kitchen. While gleefully snacking, everyone got to watch the chefs in action, learning the secrets behind each creation. With both savory and sweet, our senses were singing with joy, from the first bite to the last.
With the event’s theme honouring our undying love of food, the evening’s cuisine was a true gastronomic delight. Whether we were munching on paneer skewers, tuna ceviche, traditional Indigenous treats, or liquid nitrogen hibiscus berry ice cream, not a single taste bud was left neglected.
A dark room chocolate tasting by Delavoye Chocolate Maker took guests on an exploration of senses, and SPILT was quenching thirst and dazzling mocktail enthusiasts with their delicious drinks. One of the most talked-about activities was the thrilling Hot Ones Challenge. Volunteers at this station had a blast watching 150 brave souls test their limits with three fiery hot sauces ranging from 13,000 to 2 million Scoville Units (compared to Tabasco sauce's 5,000 Scoville units).
And then, there was the dessert table. Oh, the dessert table! With 1,000 sweet treats on display, our guests were in sugar heaven. From decadent chocolates to delicate pastries, there was something for every sweet tooth. And, as the pièce de résistance, dessert guru Chef James Holehouse wowed us with his sugar-blowing skills, creating intricate glass bubbles that left everyone in awe.
But it wasn't all about the food. We also had some phenomenal entertainment, including a jaw-dropping performance by Firefly Theatre, who wowed us with their aerial silks and acrobatic feats. And, of course, no party is complete without music! Capital City Records was well represented at the event with Rebecca Lappa, Wild Harpist, and Tsunami Brothers filling the library with beautiful music. A surprise appearance by Brass Tactics capped off the evening, playing upbeat tunes that brought the event to a joyful close.
Were you at the gala?
The Heart of the Party: Cook up a Story Summer Camp
While we had an amazing time at the gala, the real reason we came together was to support our Cook Up a Story Summer Camp program. This program is designed to inspire a love of learning in socially vulnerable youth ages 9-12. Our camps will focus on various aspects of literacy, including food and culinary skills, digital storytelling, reading, writing, gaming, and more. By supporting our program, you'll be helping to provide a life-changing experience for young people who need it most.
Your Support Matters
So, what's next? We still need your help to make our summer camp program a reality. Every donation brings us closer to providing a transformative experience for the young people in our community. Your contribution will help us:
- Provide a safe and supportive environment for socially vulnerable youth to learn and grow
- Foster a love of learning and literacy in the next generation
- Offer a unique and engaging summer camp experience that combines food, storytelling, and fun
Donate Today and Help Us Cook Up a Brighter Future
We're grateful for your support, and we can't wait to see the impact we can make together. Donate to our Cook Up a Story Summer Camp program today and help us cook up a brighter future for Edmonton's youth.
Capturing the Moments: Photo Gallery
