Entertainment

Experience the ultimate fusion of flavors and entertainment at the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival! Our esteemed lineup features renowned chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and musicians ready to delight your senses. Immerse yourself in live cooking demos, cocktail masterclasses, and wine seminars on our dynamic indoor stage. Delve into exclusive discussions and tastings at our VIP tent. And don’t miss the electrifying performances by the versatile Carrie Zazz band, spanning genres from classic rock and pop to country and Motown. Join us for a celebration of culinary excellence and musical harmony.

Demonstrations

Chef Marcus Guiliano

Chef Marcus Guiliano is a renowned figure in the culinary world, celebrated as an award-winning chef-restaurateur, esteemed business consultant, prolific multi-book business author, and a captivating professional speaker. His passion for food, unwavering commitment to sustainability, and dedication to promoting real, ethically sourced ingredients have earned him the prestigious title of “America’s Top Food Activist” by One Green Planet.

In 2003, Marcus, alongside his devoted wife, embarked on an extraordinary venture by founding what is today’s Most Awarded Restaurant in the Hudson Valley, Aroma Thyme Bistro.

Chef Ric Orlando

Chef Ric Orlando is a legend in the Hudson Valley of New York. He is a Bobby Flay beater and two-time Chopped winner. Former chef/owner of Woodstock’s famous New World Home Cooking, Chef Ric is currently keeping busy with cooking classes, pop-up events and exploring the culinary world by traveling.

Voted the 2021 Best Hudson Valley Chef by Chronogram Magazine, he’s recently created a line of seasonings and sauces, Ric Orlando’s Best.

Chef Vincent Tropepe

Chef Vincent Tropepe is a Brooklyn, New York native. His deep Italian roots as well as the influence of his grandmothers have inspired him to become a chef. Vincent Tropepe has worked in every avenue of the food business. He has also had his work featured in numerous newspapers, magazines, online magazines, and blogs.

Vincent is also a published cookbook author with his first release titled: “From Behind the Kitchen Doors”. His other works include “SLAUGHTERED: How Inconsistent Lockdowns Collapsed the Hospitality Industry During COVID-19” and “Roasted, Chopped, & Beaten: When Cities Declare War on the Restaurants That Feed Them.”

Chef J. Jackson

Chef J. Jackson has become a recognized name in the culinary world, known for his passion for great food and dynamic presence as a private chef, professional speaker, caterer, and author. His signature style blends a deep love of cooking with techniques inspired by some of the world’s top chefs. Jackson’s culinary journey began at the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington, D.C., and led him to compete on Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay and Cutthroat Kitchen. He’s also the author of the children’s book If I Were a Vegetable, What Would I Be?

Debbie Gioquindo

Debbie Gioquindo, a wine connoisseur, entrepreneur, and Poughkeepsie, New York native, whose zest for life will leave you both informed and entertained! This former radio marketing and community relations pro is now affectionately known as the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess, and her passion for all things wine is nothing short of contagious.

From owning a successful travel agency for two decades to her leadership roles with the Shawangunk Wine Trail and Executive Director for Hudson Valley Wine Country, Debbie’s diverse background perfectly marries her love for wine and travel. A true renaissance woman, Debbie is a Certified Travel Counselor, Certified Specialist in Wine, Wine Location Specialist in Port & Champagne and a Certified Sherry Wine Specialist.