MAKAWAO – In appreciation of local Maui chefs and the bounty of Upcountry Maui, Montessori School of Maui will host the fourth annual “Taste of Upcountry” event on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 6 to 10 p.m.

This festive outdoor event, held on the central lawn of the school’s beautiful Makawao campus, is the primary fundraising activity for the 2019-20 school year.

“Taste of Upcountry” will be co-emceed by Grand Wailea Hawaiian Cultural Ambassador Kainoa Horcajo and The Merwin Conservancy’s director of programs, Sara Tekula, who also serves on Montessori School of Maui’s Board of Trustees.

Local musical talent includes an opening show by folk-inspired singer and keyboardist Steve Sargenti and evening performance by bluesy chanteuse Sierra Carrre.

“Taste of Upcountry” is designed to showcase the talent, toil and camaraderie of Maui’s renowned chefs and Upcountry farmers and purveyors.

The evening will feature ten culinary stations presenting sweet and savory tasting plates by Chef Bev Gannon of Haliimaile General Store, Gary Johnson of Sea Salt Maui/Ulupalakua Ranch Store, Craig Dryhurst of the Four Seasons, Anthony LaBua-Keiser of Maui Preserved, Nicole Scharer of Nicole Scharer Events, Ben Diamond of Hanai Cuisine, Kevin Bell of Maui Farm to Fridge, Uma Dugied of Star Anise Catering and Jessica Kapoor of Sweet on Maui.

In addition, espresso and a variety of espresso-based concoctions will be offered by Crema Maui.

Montessori School of Maui is excited to announce that this is a zero-waste event in partnership with Maui Huliau Foundation.

In the true spirit of community, Montessori School of Maui is purposefully gathering friends, neighbors and families on campus for this lively fall tradition of sharing a meal to taste and toast local agriculture while investing in a bright future for our island.

Festivities will include a silent and live auction. Event proceeds directly support student programs, tuition assistance, teachers’ professional development and campus maintenance.

The event is 21 and over, BYOB and open to the public.

General admission starts at $90 and VIP tables at $2,500. For more event information, go to http://bit.ly/TasteMOMI2019.