There’s no place like Napa, frankly. If you’ve never been, it’s every bit as elegant and picturesque as its Google image search results, even through the never-ending COVID-19 pandemic and a series of unprecedented wildfires. Wine country always seems to find a way to carry on in the face of Mother Nature’s antics, though, and the parties are every bit *~a vibe~* as they once were (just with less proximity to strangers).

At this year’s Jennifer Hudson concert, otherwise known as the 2021 Arts for All Gala, some serious funds were raised in the name of arts education, providing community members with free and affordable access to art programming throughout Napa County. Hosted by Festival Napa Valley (part of the Napa Valley Festival Association), this year’s gala amassed $2.8 million in donations through ultra-exclusive auction lots like VIP passes to this year’s Kentucky Derby and US Open, art and wine-focused trips to places like Italy, Hawaii, and Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, and of course, a ton of Napa’s most sought-after bottles. Iconic Oakville winery Nickel & Nickel played host for the evening, which consisted of an epic dinner by chef Charles Phan paired with exquisite wines by both Nickel & Nickel and sister winery Far Niente, the record-breaking auction, and J.Hud’s flawless first live post-quar performance. As for the event's attendees? Clearly the chicest vinophiles in town. Click through for the best dressed guests!

[Photos by Drew Altizer Photography courtesy Festival Napa Valley]

Nia Imani Franklin, Jennifer Hudson

The Guest List

More