The popular annual event, “Chili Day in Cutler Bay,” returns for its fourth year on Saturday, Jan. 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Cutler Ridge Park.
Touted as a fun-filled day for the serious and not-so-serious chili chefs in the community, the event is sponsored by Mercedes Benz of Cutler Bay as a competition and showcase for amateur and professional cooks in various divisions, according to Fred Bobson of the town’s Parks and Recreation Department.
“Last year’s champion, Cipriano’s Italian Restaurant, will return to defend their ‘Chili Crown,’” Bobson said. “And even more local firefighters are expected to be on hand to test their firehouse cooking skills and try to win the Firefighter Division of the Chili Challenge. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded by a panel of judges for first, second and third place in three categories — Chili, Salsa and Corn Bread.”
The judging also features cash prizes for the best-decorated booth, showmanship, and a “People’s Choice” award for the fan’s favorite chili.
Bobson said that the event is open to all ages and taste buds, and that you don’t have to be a competitive chili chef to enjoy the day. There’s no charge for chili sampling. Don’t care for chili? No problem — there will be other foods and drinks available for purchase. Live music by the Andrew Morris Band will spice up things and there are children’s activities throughout the day.
Supporters of Chili Day since the start, members of the Town Council will be there participating and helping to hand out prizes at the end of the event. Cutler Bay Mayor Edward P. MacDougall encourages everyone to come out and enjoy the day.
“The only thing hot about the day will be the chili and the only thing cold will be the beer,” MacDougall is fond of saying.
Councilmember Peggy Bell has praise for the yearly happening as well.
“If you haven’t attended this event before, make sure you don’t miss it this year,” Bell said. “It is a super fun event. Everyone has a great time, both those who are making the chili and those who are sampling it.”
Cutler Ridge Park is located at 10100 SW 200 St. For more information contact Fred Bobson at 305-238-4166.
