Southern Smoke Festival 2026 Tickets Are On Sale Now

Join us for an unforgettable experience of incredible food, drinks, and community on Saturday, October 3. This year, almost 100 celebrated chefs, beverage professionals, and hospitality visionaries will come together for an afternoon of world-class bites, libations, live music, immersive experiences, and more, all to raise critical funds for emergency relief and mental health support for food and beverage workers nationwide.

Cris Tang

Chief Financial Officer

With extensive knowledge and expertise in a wide range of skills, Cris is the critical engine behind the scenes that makes Southern Smoke go.

For nearly two decades, Cris had various roles for companies like Schulmberger, National Oilwell Varco, and United Airlines. She has done everything from training more than 3,000 employees to securing financial support for both corporations and nonprofit entities.

Cris joined Southern Smoke as controller in April 2021 and was promoted to Chief Financial Officer in 2023. She oversees the Foundation’s accounting, financial reporting, and human resources.