Rachael Ray Takes The Stage As Host Of Annual Burger Bash Event In N.Y.C.

Rachael Ray stepped out to perform hosting duties at an annual event that’s close to her heart.

The celebrity cook and TV personality, 57, appeared at Blue Moon Burger Bash 2.0 at the New York City Wine & Food Festival on Friday, Oct. 17.

Ray has hosted the burger celebration since it began more than 16 years ago, but this year she had a special co-host: Brooklyn Beckhamwho joined her while representing his hot sauce brand, Cloud23.

Guests at the tasting event were given the opportunity to vote for their favorite burger, while a panel of celebrity judges — including And Rule, Ana Navarro and Sunny Anderson — also weighed in on the meaty creations, which feature Pat LaFrieda’s custom burger blend as a base.

Over the past 17 years, NYCWFF has raised more than $14.8 million for charitable organizations.

This year, the festival’s host and beneficiary is Event Zero Foundation, which promotes sustainable event practices. NYCWFF also partnered with the James Beard Foundation, which is devoted to building ”a vibrant, equitable and sustainably independent restaurant industry.”

Ray is known to host Burger Bash’s Florida counterpart each year, at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

While chatting with PEOPLE at the event in February, the Meals in Minutes host reflected on why she enjoys these events,

“I love the concept of asking the world’s greatest chefs to come and put their work on a bun,” she said.

Proceeds from SOBEWFF’s festival ticket sales benefit Florida International University (FIU) and its students preparing to work in the hospitality industry. Past years have already raised more than $40 million total for FIU.

Ray added of the Florida-based festival, “I come here because I love the kids and pushing all of their lives forward. For over 20 years, I come here out of loyalty. I think that’s a big part of life.”