Just before summer settles over Lake Oconee, a refreshing new event will offer guests a chance to enjoy the close of spring during the inaugural Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival, being held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., May 22 at Gary’s Garden Center on Linger Longer Road in Greensboro.

The festival, presented by The Oconee Cellar and Gary’s Garden Center, will feature fine food from regional chefs and extensive wine selections along with live jazz by the band “Spread.”

In addition to the silent auction, a rousing live auction will cap off the evening’s events. Major items that will be featured in the live auction include golf packages, gourmet dinners and a week’s stay at the Hacienda Pinilla Beach and Golf Resort in Costa Rica.

“We are excited about hosting an event like this at Lake Oconee,” said event organizer Ted Baker. “The festival will grow each year and become a signature event for residents and visitors to celebrate the beauty of Lake Oconee. It will provide the perfect opportunity to gather friends and family for an evening of good food, good wine and good fun.”

 The Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival is being organized by Redeemer Episcopal Academy. A portion of proceeds will also be used to benefit other Lake Oconee area schools.

Tickets are now on sale for $35 each and are available at Gary’s Garden Center, The Oconee Cellar, or by phone at (706) 453-9243.