City of Philadelphia Honors Festival with Official Mayoral Citation as Hundreds Gather at the Historic Bok Building for Culture, Education, and Community
PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Hue Society has successfully wrapped its 8th Annual Wine and Culture Fest (WCF), bringing hundreds of wine lovers, creators, and hospitality professionals to the historic Bok Building in South Philadelphia. Centered around the theme “Summer School,” this year’s festival transformed the space into a dynamic cultural campus focused on dismantling barriers, elevating context, and celebrating heritage through food, music, and wine.
The impact of the festival was formally recognized by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and the City of Philadelphia, who presented The Hue Society with an official City Citation honoring WCF as “one of the most culturally centered wine festivals in the United States” and commending founder Tahiirah Habibi for her vision and inspired leadership in driving economic inclusion and hospitality excellence.
“We are teaching people where wine already lives in their own bodies, memories, and lives,” said Tahiirah Habibi, founder of The Hue Society and Wine & Culture Fest. “Seeing our community gather in Philadelphia to learn, connect, and celebrate without shrinking themselves or conforming to traditional standards shows that when you create spaces with intentionality, culture leads the way.”
Event Recap & Highlights:
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Mayoral Citation: The City of Philadelphia recognized WCF for bringing over 500 attendees together annually, spotlighting local culinary professionals, and elevating Philadelphia as a prime destination for culture and business.
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Featured Talent & Keynotes: Mainstage programming featured an inspiring Fireside Chat with Jade Novah alongside a powerhouse Chef Panel moderated by Tashira Halyard of Politics & Fashion, bringing dynamic conversation to the intersection of culinary arts, culture, and lifestyle.
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VIP Rosé Lounge Powered by Don Luchi: Guests in the exclusive VIP Rosé Lounge enjoyed curated pours of Don Luchi Prosecco and vibrant rosé selections alongside premier hospitality activations.
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Signature Programming: Attendees participated in the signature R.I.C.E. experience—a global culinary showcase celebrating the heritage of rice across the diaspora paired with exceptional wines—alongside interactive chef panels featuring Chef Nana Wilmot and curated by Chef Chaz Brown; and educational masterclasses.
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Sponsors & Educational Partners: The 2026 festival was supported by leading brands and partners, including VinePair, Jackson Family Wines, Angel’s Envy, Sandeman, the Culinary Careers Program, and the Philadelphia Wine School, which announced dedicated community scholarship opportunities during the festival.
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Vendor Showcase: A diverse roster of Black-owned wine brands, spirits, and lifestyle vendors filled the venue, offering attendees an unmatched opportunity to discover new favorites and connect directly with creators
For more information on upcoming events, chapter activations, and community initiatives, visit www.wineandculturefest.com or www.thehuesociety.com.