LONGMEADOW – The Longmeadow Chapter of UNICO is hosting their annual Wine, Beer and Food tasting on Oct. 21. Each year UNICO uses this event to bring together the community and support local charities.

The Wine, Beer and Food tasting is UNICO’s biggest annual fundraiser.  Since the year 2000, the event has raised money for educational scholarships, mental health, Italian culture and community support. According to Longmeadow Chapter UNICO President Kimberly Roche, the event typically brings in 200 to 300 people each year.

“In the past, the Longmeadow UNICO has used these funds to provide multiple scholarships each June to graduating high school seniors, support other organizations such as NAMI and Fun and Fitness, provide donations to the Open Pantry, provide funds to support disaster relief efforts and host community service events,” a release from the event stated.

Over 20 bakeries and local restaurants will be bringing their food and beverages to the event. Max’s Tavern, Plan B Burger Bar, Cima, Hampden House, La Fiorentina, Koffee Cup Bakery, Espresso Time, Berkshire Brewing Co., and Iron Duke Brewing are just a few of the many Western Massachusetts businesses involved.

“My favorite part of the Food and Wine Tasting is trying the different samples of food restaurants provide because at this event, I have tried samples of food I would never have ordered on my own to discover a new favorite food item I can order the next time I frequent the restaurant,” Roche said.

Additionally, the event will have a silent auction that boasts of the chance to win a foursome of golf at Twin Hills Country Club as well as many other prizes.

John Manzi will be providing live entertainment throughout the night. The $35 ticket includes samples of food, beverages, free parking and admission to the Basketball Hall of Fame’s exhibits. The event is on Oct. 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.