Bacon, Bourbon & Blackberry Farm: Sertoma Hosts Signature Night
May 7, 2026

#Commissions earned

KNOXVILLE - Sertoma will host its annual Friendship Dinner, reimagined this year as Bacon, Bourbon & Blackberry Farm, on Tuesday, May 26, at RiverView Family Farm. This elevated and thoughtfully curated event will bring together supporters, partners, and community leaders from across East Tennessee for an evening rooted in connection, compassion, and shared purpose.

According to Lee Freeman, Sertoma’s CEO and Executive Director, what makes Bacon, Bourbon & Blackberry Farm unique is its celebration of the spirit of East Tennessee where hospitality, craftsmanship, and community come together.

“The event reflects a shared commitment to compassion and belonging and offers a rare opportunity to gather around a mission that strengthens lives and builds community,” said Freeman.

Emceed by Beth Haynes and featuring the iconic Benton’s Smoky Mountain Country Hams, the evening will highlight the rich culinary heritage of East Tennessee through artisan bacon, chefdriven food experiences, and thoughtfully curated bourbon offerings.

“Guests will enjoy tasting stations led by renowned culinary talent from Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain, including Joey Edwards, Joel Werner, Sean Miller, and Kendall McCullough,” said Freeman. “The culinary experience will be complemented by curated bourbon tastings and baconinspired cocktails from Company Distilling, with Master Distiller Jeff Arnett in attendance.”

Freeman explains that this is more than a night of exceptional food and drink, Bacon, Bourbon & Blackberry Farm is a missiondriven event with a meaningful purpose. Proceeds directly support the men and women of Sertoma living with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping ensure they have access to opportunity, connection, and support that allows them to live full, valued lives within the community.

“This event reflects the very heart of East Tennessee,” said Freeman. “Bacon, Bourbon & Blackberry Farm brings people together around compassion and community, and it directly supports the men and women we serve at Sertoma. When a community gathers with purpose, it creates opportunity, belonging, and a better future for everyone.”

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at bit.ly/sertomabaconbourbon.