When Emeril isn't in the kitchen, he's busy helping his native New Orleans. From after-school and summer programs to innovative partnerships and events, The Emeril Lagasse Foundation has been striving to improve the quality of young people's lives with grants for funding to children's charities that assist in improving education, life skills development, hospitality and culinary training since 2002.

The Foundation's flagship event, Carnivale du Vin, an all-out celebration of the finest wines the world has to offer, has raised $10 million for the foundation since 2005. Emeril hosts the 6th annual Carnivale du Vin at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Grand Ballroom on Saturday, November 13, and it promises to be nothing short of amazing.

Featuring a collection of the finest wines in the world, the gala includes a seated dinner prepared by some of the country’s top chefs: Gale Gand, Kevin Rathburn and Norman Van Aken, as well as Chef Emeril himself.

Following dinner will be a live auction, comprised of one-of-a-kind lifestyle and culinary experiences: Highly exclusive travel and wine packages and special commemorative lots, guaranteed to tempt the most cultivated palates and the most seasoned travelers. Wine Spectator ranks the event in its Top Ten U.S. Charity Wine Auctions.

After the auction, dance off your dinner to live entertainment by Kool and the Gang!

Learn more about the 2010 Carnivale du Vin and reserve your seat.

If you can't make it to New Orleans but still want to help, consider making a contribution to the Emeril Lagasse Foundation.

Find Emeril's top recipes here.