The Southside community and greater Sarasota area will soon gather for an unforgettable evening of food, music, and philanthropy as Cooking for the Arts returns in 2026 with a vibrant “Havana Nights” theme, benefiting arts education at Southside Elementary School. Hosted at Michael's On East, this signature event offers a one-of-a-kind interactive culinary experience. Rather than simply being served dinner, guests work together at their tables to prepare courses for one another, guided by professional chefs leading the experience from the stage. The result is an engaging, high-energy evening that blends teamwork, creativity, and community connection. Co-chaired by Molly Biter and Montana Taplinger, Cooking for the Arts continues to evolve while staying rooted in its core mission: ensuring students have access to robust arts programming that enhances their educational journey. 

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