4th annual Catalina Wine Mixer benefits Chimes Tower Foundation

Wheeland Brothers kick off the Catalina Wine Mixer at the Casino Opening Bash on Friday, Sept. 21. Photo courtesy of Alexis Saldana

For the Islander

Summer-like weather on the first weekend of fall welcomed a record crowd to the island for the fourth installment of the Catalina Wine Mixer, an annual event inspired by the memorable “Catalina Wine Mixer” scene from the classic comedy “Step Brothers,” starring Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly.

A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to the Catalina Chimes Tower Foundation to aid the ongoing restoration of Avalon’s beloved chimes and the hillside tower that houses them. “The overwhelming success of the Catalina Wine Mixer is a testament to the people of Avalon, whose hard work and hospitality keep guests coming back year after year,” said Catalina Island Company CEO Randall Herrel. “To show our appreciation for everyone’s support, the Catalina Island Company is donating $4,000 to the Chimes Tower Foundation.”

The weekend kicked off Friday, Sept. 21, at Island Spa Catalina, where guests enjoyed a live performance by Catalina’s own James Moody, as well as great food and award-winning wines from Rusack’s Santa Barbara and Catalina Island Vineyards.

The spa event was part of an expanded VIP package that helped elevate the guest experience at this year’s Catalina Wine Mixer.

Friday’s Opening Bash in front of the Casino, featuring music by the Wheeland Brothers, was followed by a special showing of Step Brothers in Avalon Theatre.

After that, the crowd made its way to Descanso Beach Club for an after-hours party with DJ KFresh.

Nearly 3,000 Step Brothers fans packed Descanso Beach Club on Saturday to sip vintages from more than 30 wineries and enjoy the tunes of DJ Splyce, as well as live performances by Kelly Fitzgerald, Kalama Brothers, Tijuana Dogs, The Side Deal and The Dan Band.

In addition to music, wine and food, this year’s Wine Mixer offered a number of activities, including a Paint & Sip workshop, outrigger canoe races in Descanso Cove and the chance to have your picture taken with Ruby the Owl, one of the stars of Catalina Falconry Experience.

The Catalina Wine Mixer weekend wrapped up on Sunday, with breakfast and Bloody Marys at Descanso Fresh, a bottomless mimosa brunch at Avalon Grille and another live performance by the Wheeland Brothers at Descanso Beach Club.