Tuesday, July 28, 2026
6:00 PM until dark | Highlands, NC
Join the Highlands Biological Foundation for our most anticipated night of the year — the Summer Soirée at Flat Mountain Farm — our largest annual fundraiser in support of biological research and education in the southern Appalachians.
Tickets on sale in June 16th.
A Signature Evening
in Highlands
Hosted by Flat Mountain Farm
This year’s Summer Soirée will be held at Flat Mountain Farm, a beautifully designed Highlands property created for gathering, celebration, and rest. Founded and thoughtfully run by Koble Delmer and Caleb Irby, Flat Mountain Farm reflects their shared passion for hospitality shaped by global experiences, Southern roots, and a deep love for bringing people together. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening surrounded by mountain views, warm hospitality, and the natural beauty of one of Highlands’ most distinctive lodging properties, all in support of a meaningful cause.
Special thanks to our 2026 Soirée Host Committee:
Laura & Greg Alby
Tricia & Inman Allen
Lisa & Brad Armstrong
Elizabeth Bradham Pinckney
Michael Burel & Dr. Michael Crowe
Bill Bush & Bruce McAlpin
Kathleen Cheek-Milby & Jim Milby
Phyllis & Tom Davis
Lynn DeVault & Glo Ghegan
Martha & Michael Dupuis
Ruthie & Berry Edwards
Rachel Friday
Amanda & Greg Gregory
Laura & Steve Harris
Highlands Wine Shoppe
Kathleen & Chris Hohlstein
Cathy & Paul Jones
Alfred Kennedy & Bill Kenny
James H. Landon
Frank M. Langford
Gage & Mark LeQuire
Lucy & Hans Luquire
Elizabeth & David Martin
Heath Massey & John Mitchener
Jennifer & Forrest McConnell
Diane & Ray McPhail
Kathleen Cheek-Milby & Jim Milby
Elizabeth Bradham Pinckney
Emilie & Bruce Reid
Wyn & Bill Shoptaw
Kim & Alex Smith
Joan & Stan Starnes
Carol & Rusty Stewart
Martha & Hal Stibbs
Jennie Stowers
Marianne & Bob Strickland
Susan & Charley Tarver
Keller & Sam Torrey
Jane & Tom Tracy
Kathy & Bestor Ward
Gayle Watkins & Andy Chmar
Ann & Tom Webster
Carla & Leonard Wood
Lu & James Worrell
Carol & Blake Young
