VERO BEACH — The 6th Annual Indian River County Firefighters’ Chili Cookoff has added a Friday night component – an International Fest-of-Ale and Fine Cuisine. The two day event will take place at Pointe West from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13 and from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14.
Things kick off Friday night with their International Fest-of-Ale and Fine Cuisine. Over 70 domestic and international beers will be available to sample and many local restaurants will prepare samples of their finest cuisine. Everyone will receive a souvenir tasting mug to allow them to try out the various beers. This is a 21 years of age and older event. Old Barber Bridge, which has roots in Vero Beach will perform on stage at the Fest-of-Ale, playing a mix of original songs by Nesbit and Ullrich and classic cover tunes not often heard in mainstream music. The Old Barber Bridge mixes folk, rock, blues and bluegrass and brings an original, contemporary flair to soulful music heard from in the past. Advance tickets $25 (cash only); $30 at the gate. Tickets on sale Oct. 23 at Crown Wine & Spirits, Indian river Mall, Mulligan’s and Deep Six Watersports.
Then from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, bring the family to the Sixth Annual Firefighters’ Chili Cookoff, featuring numerous chili recipes for sampling and live entertainment; typically in the past there have been over 30 chili entries. The additional room that Pointe West offers gives the festival a chance to spread out and offer much more than it did when it was on the beach and the later date in the year makes it a much cooler time to eat some hot chili and enjoy the fun! A kids’ inflatable play area, face painting and pony rides will be available for an extra charge.
At the Chili Cookoff, “Nashville Recording Artist Tom Jackson Band” will perform on stage. Tom’s brand of music is a new driving, aggressive country likened to a combination of Jason Aldean meets Charlie Daniels. Tom has a diverse background that gives his style of country music a rock edge that is sure to keep you on your feet. Tom is a powerful lead vocalist with a range most singers would die for. A $5 wristband entitles you to sample as much chili as you would like. Additional food and drinks are available for purchase.
Information: Call Lt. David Dangerfield at (772) 473-6940 or visit www.ircffa.org.