The 'Local Thing to Do' Sells Out

In its 15th year, the Vintage Food and Wine Festival has become "the local thing to do."

That's how resident Diane Weise explained Saturday night's sold-out  fundraiser for the, and the sister city program collaboration with Capestrano, Italy.

"You get to see people you haven't seen in a long time," Weise said while tasting tomato soup from . She was one of about 1,000 who attended.

Held on the mission grounds, there was romantic gold lighting, old West re-enactors dressed from the 1880's and live music from a local band called Family Style. 

The night also boasted a silent auction featuring local artist Susan Jarecky, along with other regional businesses and programs as well as a casino gaming area.

Tim and Stella Humphrey attended for the first time to celebrate their 17th wedding anniversary with a few friends. "We really liked and and are definitely coming back next year."

Friend and fellow native, Cici Barry agreed, "the community comes together to support the local chamber of commerce and mission. You really get the local vibe of the community."

This year the Vintage also celebrated the . San Juan's ambassador to Capestrano, Italy, Vicky Carabini, explained the annual event signifies the "farewell to the swallows" which generally migrate in October. 

She hosted the Little Italy section of the food and wine vendors as a cultural experience complete with wines, cheeses and salamis.

"This is my first time at this event and I'm having a lot of fun so far," said Rancho Santa Margarita resident Tsitsi Nyamukapa. 

As the night set in and people began to dance on the lawn, the mission courtyard started to crowd with hundreds flowing in and crowding the silent auction area as it was near to close.

A total of how much money was raised was not available at the time this story was published.

The head chef at Rick's Cafe, Alex Savage, expressed her own gratitude, "they make us feel a part of the community."