Now in its 26th year, the iconic Woodstock Film Festival returns October 15–19, with screenings and events across Woodstock and surrounding towns. Ahead of the festival, the second annual “Feast for Film” fundraiser will be held on two consecutive Saturdays: September 13 and 20, bringing together dynamic culinary talents for memorable evenings across the Hudson Valley.
Born from the vision of Woodstock resident Jeff Kolton, a culinary innovator with more than three decades of experience, Feast for Film transforms private homes into intimate dining spaces where creativity and wine flow freely. Nine Hudson Valley residences—from Woodstock and Saugerties to Kerhonkson and Pine Plains—will host small groups of guests for curated, multi-course dinners prepared by 10 acclaimed chefs from New York City and beyond.
The chef lineup is as star-studded as the annual film festival marquee. Akshay Bhardwaj of Junoon brings Michelin-starred precision to Indian flavors, while Edward Carew draws on years at Gramercy Tavern and Eleven Madison to craft soulful, layered dishes. Rising star Lucas Harrell infuses modern Latin notes into his menus, and Ken Hu showcases playful Chinese creations from his work at RedFarm. Local luminaries such as David Israelow, soon to open a new Hudson Valley restaurant, and Kevin Lin of Medo Woodstock, add a regional anchor to the diverse roster.
From inventive tacos by Tae Woo Lee to refined creations by Mark Margiotta and globally inspired plates by Jehangir Mehta, the variety of cuisines ensures that no two dinners will be alike. Eugene Cleghorn of Super Burrito rounds out the lineup, promising bold, crowd-pleasing flavors. Together, the chefs highlight the rich cultural exchange that defines both food and film.
For hosts and guests alike, the event is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of community. “What makes it really unique is the sense of neighbors opening their homes, chefs donating their artistry, and everyone coming together to celebrate food, culture, and creativity in the Hudson Valley,” said Meira Blaustein, co-founder and executive director of WFF.
Proceeds from Feast for Film directly support the nonprofit festival’s mission to champion independent cinema and nurture emerging filmmakers. With partners ranging from Fruition Chocolate and Phoenicia Diner to wine purveyors and local farms, the fundraiser underscores the deep ties between food, film, and community.
As Kolton put it, “It brings chefs and neighbors together around the table to break bread and celebrate creativity, generosity, and support for the Woodstock Film Festival.”
In the end, Feast for Film is about more than exquisite food or award-winning cinema—it’s about the stories told, the connections made, and the culture sustained at the heart of the Hudson Valley. Add your name to the waitlist.
