Marbled cherry lime cake with prickly pear mousse. Aztec chocolate cotton candy. Pumpkin pie with caramel drizzle.

Ahem. Do I have your attention? If so, then you–no doubt–are a hopeless foodie like me.  I suppose it should come as no surprise then that culinary events excite me like no other–especially the ones that combine tasty treats with craft beverages. Sweet Charity is just such an event and it’s coming to Southern Arizona on Friday, November 21st.

What exactly is Sweet Charity?

It’s a culinary event right up Willy Wonka’s alley–but better.  Guests can sample more than 40 sweet bites as well as craft cocktails, beer and wine (that’s where the ‘better’ comes in).  Perhaps I’m most excited to try the Pumpkin S’more. But then again, the white chocolate champagne cake has my name written all over it, too. And that’s saying nothing about the tantalizing sips. Grown-up milkshakes, house-made Horchata and one very tempting peach Bellini cake shooter are only a small sampling of the beverage options that will be available at Sweet Charity. They had me at Horchata.

As if all of those sweet treats weren’t enough, they’re taking the fun up a notch by matching students from the Art Institute of Tucson against the city’s top chefs in an all People’s Choice competition. I can only speak for myself here, but I have to admit that I’m taking my role very seriously; it wouldn’t be fair to cast a vote without trying all of the offerings, right? It’s a tough job, but I think I’m up for the task.

When and where does it take place?

Sweet Charity takes place on Friday, November 21st at 6:00 at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort (7700 North Resort Dr, Tucson, Az). Tickets are $35 each.

Who does it benefit?

Proceeds go to SAACA’s Creative Arts Therapy Program for veterans and assisted living and retirement communities.

Anything else worth noting?

SAACA events have been known to sell out. Get your tickets now while the getting is good. See you there!

As a media partner, I’ve been provided with complimentary tickets to this event. As always, the thoughts I’m sharing with you in this (and every) post are not swayed by discounts or freebies.