This morning, we checked the forecast and whispered a little BBQ prayer. It was heard!
Right at the time the gates opened for our ticket holders, the clouds parted and the sky cleared up. Coincidence? We don’t think so.
The new venue at Hadji Shrine was a perfect backdrop today, filled with food lovers, families, and BBQ enthusiasts who helped us not only set a financial record by smoking last year’s total.
We will have numbers to report in the next couple of weeks, but the first blush shows that this is a RECORD year of fundraising, which means more to give to the charities that we are supporting this year.
But until the final number is known, help us celebrate the winning teams below!
Judges’ Choice Awards
1st Place – Team Palafox, who wowed the judges with a watermelon and pork masterpiece. Yes, watermelon. And it was delicious.
2nd Place – Hot Spots Charters, a crowd favorite that managed to secure both the Judges’ and People’s Choice silver.
3rd Place – A new competitor, Sonny’s BBQ, that was led by Elden Scott, stole the show with burnt ends that were so good they might have to put these on their menu full time.
People’s Choice Awards
1st Place – Rocket Five took home the People’s Choice top spot with a perfectly smoked dish that stole hearts (and taste buds).
2nd Place – Hot Spots Charters, proving they’re a crowd-pleaser.
3rd Place – Shrine and Swine, with flavors and creativity that wowed the crowd.
Spirit of Eggfest Award
King’s Middle School (Milton, Florida) Culinary ClassThe Spirit of Eggfest Award went to King’s Middle School in Milton, whose culinary students, led by their teacher, served mini-grilled cheese sandwiches to the judges and shared their dreams of becoming future culinary artists. This group might just be the future of BBQ greatness.
We couldn’t have done this event without our generous sponsors who helped make this event unforgettable.
Huge thanks to Kia AutoSport of Pensacola, Hanto & Clarke General Contractors, PenAir Credit Union, The Butcher Shoppe, Florida Blue, Escambia Electric Motor, Local Pulse Pensacola, Old Hickory Whiskey Bar, Cat Country 98.7, Red Iron Design House, The Farm, and Lewis Bear Company.
Thank you to everyone who braved the weather, enjoyed the BBQ, and made this year’s Pensacola Eggfest a fantastic success. Congratulations to all of our winners!
See you next year for another smokin’ good time!
Lisa Long Lyter, Editor in Chief
