Tickets are on sale now for local nonprofit Bellevue LifeSpring’s annual celebration of wine and giving, Uncork the Night. This year’s event, on Saturday, October 4th, marks the grand finale of the cherished gala that has brought the community together for over a decade to raise critical funds that prevent hunger and homelessness for Bellevue children. You’re invited to gather for an evening of connection and purpose while enjoying curated wine tastings, an exclusive silent wine auction, a live auction filled with unforgettable experiences, and heartfelt stories of impact from Bellevue LifeSpring.

First launched in 2008 as “Wine at its Best,” Uncork the Night began as an intimate wine-themed fundraiser with a clear and heartfelt mission: to support local students in need. Over time, the event evolved into an exciting Bellevue tradition. From its early beginnings to sold-out ballrooms, the spirit of Uncork the Night has always been rooted in the community and the belief that every child in Bellevue deserves the stability they need to thrive in and out of school. While the Uncork the Night gala is always a night to remember, this final sendoff carries extra significance as it honors the generosity of our community and the years of impact it has had on Bellevue children. From surprise moments to special tributes, this will be a sendoff worthy of the legacy this event has built.

This year’s event is chaired by two Bellevue community members close to the organization: Bellevue LifeSpring Board Member, Sophia Siu, and Greet West Bellevue’s own Franchise Owner and longtime supporter of Bellevue LifeSpring, Lindsay Rucker. Sophia and Lindsay are dedicated community members who bring heart, energy, and a deep commitment to Bellevue LifeSpring’s mission. Sophia, a parent of a Chinook Middle School student and resident of the Woodridge neighborhood, hosted her first table at Uncork in 2024 and was inspired to take on a larger role for this final send-off. “There aren’t too many times I get dressed up for a night out in Bellevue, but this is one of them. I hope this year’s guests enjoy it as much as I do,” she says. Lindsay has been attending Uncork the Night for nearly eight years and holds the event close to her heart. “Having once been a single mom navigating the challenges of a fixed income, I know how hard it can be to break free from that cycle without the right support,” Lindsay shared. “Being involved with Bellevue LifeSpring is one of my ways of paying that kindness forward.”

Over the years, Lindsay and her husband have built lasting memories at the gala. “Beyond the cause, Uncork the Night is just one of those events we genuinely look forward to,” said Lindsay. “Not just for the incredible food and wine, but rather the energy in the room and the joy of seeing so many people come together to make a combined difference. My hope is that Uncork the Night’s legacy lives on in new ways, even after this final gala.” For both event chairs, helping to lead the final Uncork the Night is a full-circle moment filled with emotion, gratitude, and hope for the future. “It’s not about saying goodbye,” shared Lindsay. “It’s about celebrating all the lives we’ve touched and ensuring the spirit continues in new ways long after the final toast.”

Sophia shared three words she would use to describe the event: community, friendship, and philanthropy. Looking to the future, Sophia is focused on how Bellevue LifeSpring will continue evolving to meet growing needs for Bellevue children. “Unfortunately, the number of children in Bellevue facing hunger and homelessness has been growing, and accordingly, Bellevue LifeSpring has been growing to meet those needs,” said Sophia. “We have entered the next phase for Bellevue LifeSpring with a strong focus on devoting as much time and resources as possible to families and children experiencing poverty.” With this year marking the final Uncork the Night, Bellevue LifeSpring is pulling out all the stops, promising an unforgettable evening of impact and inspiration.  

Tickets are on sale now at BellevueLifeSpring.org, and are going fast. Don’t miss this amazing evening of wining, dining, and making a difference next month at W Bellevue!