2026 Hite of Excellence Series of Sumptuous Feasts
Belle Grove is pleased to announce the 2026 Hite of Excellence Series of Sumptuous Feasts. This series of exclusive events is one of Belle Grove Plantation's most important fundraisers of the year. Tickets first go on sale in-person at the Kick Off Cocktail Party on Saturday, February 7, 5-7 p.m. Many events will sell out that evening!
2026 Events
Wednesday, March 11 Decision Height at the Winchester Little Theatre Written by Meredith Dayna Levy, this compelling drama follows Virginia Hascall who has left home to become a Women Airforce Service Pilot in World War II. We will start the evening with coffee and dessert.
Saturday, April 11 Spring Luncheon at Fort Bowman Be among the first to see the renovations at Fort Bowman, a 1770s home owned by Belle Grove Inc. Haya Fare will cater lunch featuring fresh produce and flavors.
Saturday, May 9 Curated Dinner at Vaucluse Join Chef Jan Van Haute at the Chumley House for a locally curated meal and a talk about his plans for the historic Vaucluse property.
Saturday, May 16 Sip & See: An Evening at Birdwood You are invited to historic Birdwood Farm in Woodstock, home of Isaac & Ann Hite’s granddaughter. The evening includes a private tour, a chance to meet the friendly alpacas, appetizers, and sips from a local winery.
Saturday, July 25 Bluegrass in the Barn with Five of A Kind A summer tradition and the perfect way to enjoy the Barn and sunset view. Drinks and snacks included and Bricellos Grilled Formaggio food truck will be on site.
Saturday, September 12 Australian Wine Dinner La Grange Family Farm From cocktails in the parlor to an intimate dinner featuring food from the farm and a menu straight from the Outback prepared by Chef Christa Nahhas, every detail is designed to transport you.
Saturday, September 19 Seafood Feast at Shaffer’s BBQ The perfect way to end the summer—freshly steamed seafood, good friends, and one of the best views in the Valley!
Saturday, October 10 Adventure in Fort Valley A car caravan tour with a morning history hike at Elizabeth Furnace, a picnic lunch at our host’s cabin, and a visit to the Woodstock Tower, Fort Valley Museum, and a local farm.
Saturday, November 7 First Ladies Tea Celebrate the Nation’s 250th at a tea featuring favorite desserts by our First Ladies and a chance to talk with Coleen Dixon, author of The Historical Homemaker Cookbook.
Saturday, December 5 Christmas Tea Savor tea in the Manor House decorated with the theme, ‘Favorite Christmas Memories’. Come make your own!
Saturday, December 13 Cocktails at Christmas The perfect time to experience the Manor House at Christmas, lit by candlelight with a signature Belle Grove 1797 Whiskey cocktail, appetizers, and holiday music!
Date Pending Dinner at the Historic Wayside Inn Step back in time and dine at the old kitchen in the Wayside Inn on Route 11. A sous vide pork dinner will be hosted by Clem’s Kitchen owners, Amanda and Bill Whitson, while you pretend you can hear the old stagecoach pulling up.
Thanks to our generous sponsors, proceeds from tickets will support Belle Grove’s preservation and education mission, making this one of our most important fundraisers of the year. To support the series with a tax-deductible donation, please click here or send to Belle Grove Inc., P.O. Box 537, Middletown, VA 22645. If you have any questions, or wish to be added to the mailing list for future events, please email us or call 540-869-2028.