A pair of local legendary chefs will lead two powerhouse teams in a culinary competition at Okanagan College's Kelowna campus this fall, as a new feature event from the Okanagan College Foundation will bring a battle of flavours and an evening of sensory delight to campus.
Mark your calendars - on Saturday, Oct. 4, Chef Rod Butters and Chef Bernard Casavant will transform the Kelowna campus into a vibrant, first-class piazza for the inaugural ELEVATE a tantalizing fundraising event that celebrates the region's culinary and artistic excellence while raising vital funds for students.
"This is more than a culinary event it's a celebration of the Okanagan's world-class food, wine and tourism scene," says Chef Rod Butters. "Okanagan College is integral to the future of our industry, and I'm thrilled to orchestrate this epic night showcasing our region's talent and supporting the next generation."
Expect surprise ingredients, fierce, friendly banter and bragging rights on the line as these chefs whip up masterpieces under pressure, while Chef Jeremy Luypen hosts the live challenge. The judges include local legend Audrey Surrao, and world-renowned wine maker, Howard Soon, C.M.
"ELEVATE is more than an evening of exceptional food and entertainment it's a celebration of our region's extraordinary gastronomyscene and a powerful gathering of community to invest in our shared future," says Helen Jackman, Executive Director, OC Foundation. "Every ticket, donation and sponsorship helps open doors for students, giving them the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to our local economy."
After the Black Box Chef Competition, guests will enjoy the soulful sounds of musician Andrew Johns, where they will be presented with a collection of extraordinary dishes crafted collaboratively by 20 award-winning local chefs and vintners, together under one roof for the first time. Guests will embark on a sensory journey, indulging in the food creations and enjoying exclusive beverage tastings. Each dish will be paired with local wine, beer and spirits, making ELEVATE a true feast for the senses.
Proceeds from the event will support the upcoming Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism, set to open in 2027. This will be Canada's first purpose-built facility integrating food, beverage and tourism education cultivating the next generation of talent for the Okanagan and beyond.
Last year alone, Okanagan College Foundation supported 530 students with 866 awards, totalling $1.25 million. ELEVATE builds on that impact by inviting donors, alumni and community champions to connect, celebrate and make a difference.
To purchase tickets and for more information about the event, including the complete list of featured talents, please visit okanagan.ca/elevate. Tickets are limited.
Event details:
- Date/Time: Friday, October 4, 2025
- Location: Okanagan College, Kelowna Campus, 1000 KLO Rd.
- Tickets: $300 - available at okanagan.bc.ca/elevate
- Hashtags: #ElevateOkanagan #ElevateOC #OkanaganCollege
Can't attend? Donations can be made at okanagancollegefoundation.ca.
