Simpsons writer Bill Oakley hosts unique charity dinner in Carolina Beach this weekend

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Emmy-winning writer Bill Oakley, best known for his work on The Simpsons and Futurama, is bringing his love of unusual American foods to Carolina Beach this Saturday with a charity dinner supporting Ocean Cure.

Oakley, who served as head writer during The Simpsons’ “Golden Era” in the 1990s, said the idea for the dinner series came from his passion for regional dishes that are difficult to find outside their hometowns.

“Most people have heard of or have gotten like a Chicago style hotdog, Detroit style pizza. But what people don’t realize is there’s hundreds, if not thousands, of other dishes like that that you could never try unless you go to the tiny region where they already exist,” Oakley said.

The dinner, called An American Culinary Curiosity, features seven surprise courses ranging from soups to entrees to dessert. Each dish draws inspiration from Oakley’s travels across the United States, including Rhode Island clam chowder, St. Louis Gooey butter cake, and Altoona-style pizza.

Guests will also experience a multimedia presentation with Oakley providing commentary and anecdotes from his decades-long career in comedy writing. Oakley is also the creator of the widely shared Steamed Hams meme, which he says complements his culinary storytelling.

“The dinner is a fun event. My suspicion is that you’ve never been to anything like this. All five of your senses, including your sense of humor, will be stimulated,” Oakley said.

Tickets are available online, with VIP options including a pre-dinner meet-and-greet, premium seating, and a gift box from Zab’s Hot Sauce. Attendees must be 16 or older. A portion of proceeds will benefit Ocean Cure, a nonprofit providing adaptive surfing and beach accessibility programs for individuals with disabilities.

The event will be held at Kindred in Carolina Beach, with tea, lemonade, and water included in the ticket price. Alcohol is available for purchase.