With one of the most impressive displays of patriotism, this past Saturday (Veterans Day) the 12th Annual Tequesta Chili Cook-Off and Beer Tasting Event was a resounding success. Held in the heart of Tequesta at One Main Street, the event was a vibrant celebration from 2 to 6 PM, exclusive to the adult crowd of 21 and over, and featured creative culinary competition, community spirit, and respect for our veterans.
Tequesta Chili Cook-off Highlights and Features
Attendees enjoyed a variety of chili recipes, with 32 Chili Teams vying for the title of the best chili, alongside a selection of beer from Tequesta Brewing Company and Twisted Trunk Brewing Company. Some highlights of the event included: the Veterans and Gold Star Family award ceremony, the spectacular aerial displays of the flyovers, phenomenal live music, local celebrity judges, and three enormous American flags held high by the ladders of fire trucks.
Honoring and Supporting Veterans
The event was about more than enjoyment, it was about giving back. All proceeds from this year's event were dedicated to admirable causes supporting our veterans, including: the Warriors Renewal Coalition, “A Jupiter, FL based charitable organization that holds cost-free retreats for wounded military personnel and their families”, Operation 300, “a non-profit that hosts adventure camps for children who have lost a parent in military service”, Southeast Florida Honor Flight, “an organization that sends veterans to Washington DC to see their war memorials”, Tequesta Friends of Public Safety, Inc. “a 501 (c)(3) corporation established to support the members of the Tequesta Fire-Rescue and Police Departments”, and the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, “a nonprofit that exists to provide emergency financial support to qualified disabled veterans living in Florida.” This sense of purpose underscored the community's gratitude towards our veterans and provided an additional layer of meaning to the festivities.
Who Won the Cook-Off?
So, who won the cook-off? The Fire Department 1st Place was awarded to Hollywood Fire Rescue, the Fire Department 2nd Place went to Miramar Retirees, the Non-Fire Department Winner was Tiki 52, and the People’s Choice was Firefighters on a Mission.
It was an outstanding event, so if you missed it, be sure to check it out next year!
