In their fifth annual Food & Wine Festival this Thursday evening, the Tuscaloosa River Market will once again host hundreds of guests for an evening full of local vendors and a variety of wine.

With the slogan “eat local, drink local, give local,” this year’s festival will work to benefit the West Alabama Red Cross as local residents and restaurant owners unite for one cause.

“This year is also really special because it’s the sixth anniversary of the Tuscaloosa tornado that hit in 2011,” said Julie Mann, one of the West Alabama Food & Wine committee members. “This event truly supports a great cause as the Red Cross has already done so much for disaster relief in our community.”

A series of 17 local restaurants and food trucks will provide a variety of foods throughout the evening alongside local breweries Druid City and Black Warrior Brewing Company. Carpé Vino will also provide a selection of wines.

“I’m really excited because together with Animal Butter, 301, Chuy’s and Jim ‘N Nick’s, Central Mesa will also be bringing food to the festival,” Mann said. “Central Mesa, the sister to Avenue Pub, hasn’t even opened yet, so it’s exciting to try their food before they’ve actually opened their doors to the public.”

The event has sold out the past two years with 400 guests and prepares for another successful year.

“Our entire committee has worked tirelessly to make the fifth year of the festival very special for our community” said Caroline Strawbridge, co-chairperson of the West Alabama Food & Wine Festival. “All of our committee pours their heart and soul into the preparation and planning of this event, and we enjoy watching the festival grow as we raise money for our local Red Cross.”

The West Alabama Food & Wine Festival committee isn’t the only contributor excited about the event, however.

“Our local restaurants and generous sponsors each year take pride in participating with what they each contribute,” Strawbridge said. “It’s a way for them to give back to the community in such a fun and rewarding way.”

General admission tickets can be purchased for $50 and include the food and wine tastings, as well as a commemorative wine glass. VIP tickets may also be purchased for $75 and in addition to all included in the general admission price, guests will have guaranteed seating for each of the tastings. Tickets may be purchased at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2900748.